IT is the service function at the heart of business operations which must support delivery of the overall business strategy. Any restriction within the IT portfolio towards that aim will severely limit a business’s capability of operating in competitive markets.
As a large overall cost IT has to be managed and have a strategy that operates within the fiscal and operational constraints of the organisation whilst also being flexible and adaptable. Opportunities and new business development must not be curtailed by the IT platform or services capability.
To achieve this objective the IT Strategy must be aligned with the overall business strategy and goals. Key issues that must be addressed by the IT Strategy include,
- Flexibility and adaptability to change
- Overall cost of ownership and ROI
- Principles and governance
- Acceptable service delivery and availability
- Standardisation and interoperability
- Risk management
It is imperative that the IT portfolio and delivery capability matches or exceeds business demand and is available when needed. This will inevitably lead to compromise. Too rigid an IT Strategy may appear to be cost effective but also likely lead to lost opportunity or inflexibility to change. Too fluid the controls and governance to provide effective and timely delivery are jeopardised.
We often hear that a business operates a “best in breed” approach or conversely may develop bespoke applications and solutions. Each has merit only when balanced against the overall business requirement. Standardisation of ERP makes sense when there is process commodity and limited competitive advantage. Innovation however often requires going beyond the boundaries of existing applications and solutions.
How can we help you?
We can help you create a direction of travel for your IT Strategy that accounts for the overall business objectives and goals by,
- Understanding business objectives within the context of the overall organisational capability, market and risk profile.
- Identify key IT principles aligned to business direction – buy or build scenarios
- Develop a road-map that defines and clearly communicates IT objectives to the executive
- Provide guidance and support in developing the IT portfolio and processes