Over the last 3 years my team and I have partnered with private, public and listed organisations of varying sizes across many sectors in the delivery of small, medium and mega, digital transformation initiatives. On many occasions, our engagements have 'kicked off' with a briefing where the following statement (or similar comments) have been made,
It's really important to us John that we manage this transformation under an agile project methodology
This statement is normally followed by a great deal of discussion surrounding the combined understanding within the room of what an 'agile project methodology' actually is, how it will impact the business and if the organisation is structured to support an agile decision making framework (which most are not).
In practice, we have found that there are very few organisations that can successfully run a fully agile project. There are many reasons for this but I will leave for another post. What I want to highlight today is that when it comes to critical transformation initiatives, like digital transitions, don't get caught up in the 'noise' of wanting to be agile or waterfall etc. Focus on the methodology or combination of approaches which will work best for your organisation and deliver a successful implementation with a minimum impact on employees and customers.
Ideally, a single project methodology will cover all stages of your transition but in reality, that may not be possible or the best approach for the unique set of circumstances that exist in every organisation. Be open to a combination of approaches at different stages of your transformation. We have assisted organisations utilise as many as 4 or 5 different methodologies throughout the lifespan of their project.
It is very likely that a digital transition will be one of, if not the largest and most complex change an organisation will undertake. It will often be highly stressful and impact all areas of the business (including customers). Flexibility is critical and a key to success.
John Davis
John is the Managing Director of Bangalley Group which is a company that provides transformation consulting expertise to organisations across all sectors.