It has never been more important for `IT departments` to have a close working relationship with the wider business, so that everything they do is supportive of achieving key goals and outcomes.
So, let us ask you this – do you know what the business strategy is and do you have an IT strategy that supports it? More importantly, does your organisation know about it and understand how to use it?
Does it look like this……?
– Short term tactical goals and outcomes
– Too many change initiatives at the one time.
– No buy-in from frontline employees.
– Limited or zero value to “The Business”
When it should look like this….?
– Strategic goals, objectives and direction that aligns with that of “The Business”
– Requirements and outcomes are understood and drive the direction of the IT organisation
– Enabling effective, informed and relevant decision making
– Provides the overall direction for an organisation and ultimately drives everything that it does
– Translated and communicated accordingly across all key parties and teams
Why doesn’t your IT strategy deliver the results you want?
Here are three important reasons (There Are More!) …….
Unclear definition
It is unclear what the IT strategy is designed to achieve, and the mission and vision is it attempting to communicate and underpin.
Misalignment with business mission, vision and plan
The overall IT strategy does not support the overall business strategy and has been created in isolation of this.
Lack of effective communication and socialisation
The IT strategy stays with the IT leadership team without any communication to the wider IT organisation.
What can you do about it?
Based on the above examples the problem is relatively simple to solve.
Define, align and communicate your IT strategy effectively
There is another important element that is sometimes overlooked but is critical for success
As the diagram above demonstrates once your IT strategy is defined and aligned it should then be communicated and monitored.
And if you find you have issues………
Re-define – Re-align – Re-communicate and Repeat
In Conclusion
Traditional approaches to designing and implementing an IT strategy are still relevant. The main difference today is that an IT strategy, after development, requires regular monitoring to ensure relevance and continued alignment with “The Business”.
It is important that the strategy continues to be communicated effectively, regularly, and that everyone understands it and can use it.
Failure to do this means that the wrong decisions can be made, or that no decision is made at all which can be dangerous and have serious consequences. This can impact cost, productivity, quality and ultimately impact the customer experience.
If you would like to discuss how iCore can help you then contact us on +44 (0) 203 821 1252 or email us at info@icore-ltd.com
