Transitioning between technology systems is a critical activity for organisations upgrading infrastructure or expanding digital operations. Despite their promise, these transitions are inherently complex and often problematic, causing apprehension and uncertainty. Over 56% of surveyed Australian CIOs see technology implementations as a key challenge in the next 12 months.
There are common pitfalls that we see on such projects, so we’ve gathered our thoughts on how you should approach technology projects and deliver successfully.
A realistic approach and comprehensive decision making.
A realistic timeline is often overlooked but essential. Organisations must recognise the unique nature of each implementation project allocating adequate time for critical activities as unknown complexities can extend timeframes. Rushing through implementation stages can lead to underbaked solutions, impacting overall quality and effectiveness.
Uniformity across teams and streams.
Consistency is crucial when implementing technology across diverse teams and departments while acknowledging the inherent differences in the technology being delivered. A synchronised approach with uniform methodologies and clear communication channels fosters a seamless experience. A standardised process, often a hybrid Agile and Waterfall approach, minimises discrepancies throughout the implementation journey and ensures everyone communicates using the same language and conventions.
Planning and prioritising the essentials.
Defining a comprehensive vision, aligning stakeholders' definitions of success, and laying out a clear roadmap are foundational steps on this journey. This includes establishing a robust plan for the value proposition and crafting a seamless transition path that anticipates challenges. Prioritising early planning and cohesive decision-making helps de-risk the process and accelerate the implementation journey.
An IDC analysis estimates that 70% of all digital transformation initiatives do not reach their goals. More than half (53 percent) of respondents in a PwC survey of largely Fortune 1000 companies said they had not yet realised substantial value from their cloud investments.
Engaging stakeholders and customer-centric focus.
Aligning objectives and establishing a dedicated team overseeing the implementation process is paramount. This ensures all parties work towards a common goal and an aligned delivery model. Further, creating a communication strategy for stakeholders, with clear timelines and benefits, is essential for a smooth transition and instilling customer confidence.
Acknowledging the complexity of technological transitions and adopting a customer-centric, risk-mitigating approach is crucial. The essence of technical implementation isn’t just transferring data; it’s orchestrating a transition that aligns with the customer’s evolving needs, fostering growth and improvement for both the organisation and their entire stakeholder landscape.
Approaching technology implementation projects with realism, holistic planning, and a consistent stakeholder-oriented focus sets the stage for a successful and seamless transition.
To start a conversation or find out how we balance business understanding with quality technology transformation, see https://www.pwc.com.au/consulting/digital-transformation.html
