Project is how change and transformation is executed across the business, encompassing the execution disciplines required for Purpose’s intent to be realized.
At the onset, assign an executive sponsor to champion the project. This should be someone close to the business issues that also benefits from a successful outcome. The sponsor provides the business rational, direction and guidance with other company executives and the Board of Directors. The sponsor solicits overall organizational buy-in and support, establishing budget, scope, and schedule while securing necessary human capital to succeed.
The sponsor will chair a steering committee, comprised of business leaders who are decision makers for all major Process and Platform designs. Steering Committee members are Project’s ambassadors within their business areas. Most importantly, they steer scope, schedule, resources and budgets to realize Purpose’s intent.
The detail work is handled by a Core Team with representatives from all key areas involved. These are experienced subject matter experts who know how the business operates and whose time is dedicated to the Project. The Core Team incudes decision makers for all minor Process and Platform designs, escalating to the Steering Committee for any major decisions. The Core Team provides and validates requirements and leads in the development and testing of Process and Platform changes. Along with Steering Committee members, the Core Team serves as ambassadors within their areas for the Project and involves functional leadership on all key decisions. Being closer to the Project, they inform both Steering Committee and functional area leadership of issues affecting Projects scope, schedule, resource and budget.
An effective project manager is critical to achieving Purpose’s intent by keeping the project organized, the team focused, and management involved and apprised. Assign a dedicated project manager, who is an expert in project and program methodologies, to lead the following activities:
Lastly, do not overlook the importance of collaboration tools. They are necessary to organize and keep everyone informed with the latest information in a timely manner. An example of some collaboration tools commonly used:
Effective Project structure is necessary to deliver successful outcomes. It entails governance, leadership, structure and a team of subject matter experts dedicated to achieving Purpose’s intent. Dedicate your best People. After all, isn’t realizing your business change and transformation worth it?
Dave Brady, Turning Point President and CEO
© 2024 Turning Point Consulting
