If you are still using a manual arrangement for raising and issuing orders, you have fallen behind. For those organizations already out of the starting blocks; experiencing delays in adoption and or experiencing compromised implementations that fail to deliver the value expected, the clock is still ticking…….

The prevailing assumption is that digitization improves efficiency. Removing paper from the process is good; automating workflow approvals is good; using catalogs to help your organization buy off contract is good; yet for these examples and others, organizations face low adoption. Why is this?

The gap between vision and execution. They say ‘bad workmen blame their tools’ and unfortunately if the solution is not delivering against expectations, the technology is blamed. The gap between the vision and execution is a failing that challenges many projects.

One shoe size does not fit all – however the end-to-end process steps to assemble shoes is the same. Organizations unable to segment different use cases and apply appropriate and relevant processes within the platform will face user resistance. These failings will have users complaining that the new solution and process is more complex and less efficient than the previous manual arrangement. It is no surprise then adoption remains low!

Critical to success is the ability to assess, match and configure a process to a process flow sustained effectively within the applicable technology platform. Configuration does not mean customization. The art of digitalization is delivering a more effective outcome for the user and business by balancing and re-engineering processes to leverage standard platform functionality configured to meet your business needs. There is more than one right answer, but typically one answer makes the most sense.

This art requires an agile mindset – particularly, where there is a need to integrate across different technology platforms. There may be trade offs when considering functionality overlaps – which platform remains the source of truth and core to the process – this requires a solid understanding of the end-to-end process and how similar use cases can be consolidated and optimized. The goal is ensure a seamless flow from A to B, to C, to D that is both efficient and effective.

Top Tips

• Understand the landscape holistically to define the strategy
• Understand the technology suite
• Engage users early on to understand use cases (capture the As-Is baseline and pain points)
• Align the best talent and user champions to design the new To-Be processes
• Challenge current comfort zones to avoid repeating the existing process
• Keep userability front of mind – keep it simple and intuitive
• Lead, communicate and train extensively

The digital journey is not an easy one. Value the transaction and act accordingly.

Are you in Digital Hell or Heaven? Bridge the gap between Vision and Execution. Contact Us.

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