|
Today, most computer systems
are built from software and hardware components from more than one technology vendor. Although many technology vendors have made great strides in providing products that are easier to implement and manage, there is still a great need for people with specific technical talents integrate all components so they work as a single system. Unfortunately, many vendors oversimplify what it takes to successfully implement integrated technical solutions. Most technical integration projects will experience implementations that are inherently more difficult than expected. Unplanned cost overruns can impact expected cash flow and profitability. Technical problems can consume valuable time from business managers. There are a myriad of details to be managed.
High Project Failure Rate –
It is well-known that a high percentage of technical projects fail to meet business expectations. This failure rate increases when the projects are dependent on the performance of products from multiple vendors. With every additional vendor, the complexity and risks to the project increases, and the need for experience IT project management increases. Poor project planning, execution and control is the single biggest reasons that most integration projects fail to meet business expectations.
It Takes a Army –
Since technical projects require a diversity of components, they
also require a diverse team of skilled technical analysts and engineers.
Vendor relationship management is also a key requirement. Experienced
AD project managers understand the roles and the work that must
be accomplished for all technical projects. Experienced project managers
ensure vendor and
resource performance continually meets the expectations for the
project. They provide the necessary leadership to ensure time, quality
and costs
are optimized throughout the entire project schedule.
Communication is Key –
Successful integration projects require strong communication links between all participants and stakeholders. The fact is that business and technical workers sometimes blend like the proverbial oil and water. Technology workers speak a language that is unique to their respective field of expertise, and many talented IT workers lack the ability to effectively speak in business terms. Technical workers can employ unique work methods that can seem foreign or counter-intuitive to experienced business managers. Capable IT project managers bridge the communication gap between all parties, and provide the necessary leadership to ensure that technical resources consistently meet the performance expectation of their clients.
Demand Experienced Technical Project Managers –
Effective technical project managers must be very knowledgeable about the technology they are responsible to implement. They must be very experienced with current systems integration best-practices. Successful technical project managers must know how to walk the delicate balance between providing the necessary autonomy for resources to exploit their talents and creativity, and providing the leadership, structure and control required for protecting the interests of the client. System integration typically includes a large dose of technical problem solving and problem management. Strong relationship management enhances the project manager’s ability to more quickly and more effectively solve problems that would otherwise delay the project.
K2
Technical Services has
extensive experience managing technical projects.
Most of our
K2Pros
™ have
acquired professional project management certification. We provide the
expertise to help ensure you receive the utmost value for your technology
investments.
|
