In Part 1 of this series we unpacked the concept of an IT transformation and a common challenge that organisations face in that they often fail to effectively plan IT initiatives to be aligned to, and enablers for, their business strategy which hampers business results down the line.
This article will share Cubility’s tailored solution to this challenge which organisations can use to develop an effective IT strategy to support its business objectives.
Cubility’s IT Strategy Development Framework
Cubility’s tailored IT Strategy Development Framework assists organisations achieve the best outcome from its IT Transformation initiatives. The framework consists of five key steps, commencing with the alignment of its IT and business strategies, followed a focus on Process and Governance, Organisation and Sourcing, Portfolio and Financials and Systems and Technology respectively. These five key steps are explained in more detail below.
- Business Strategy Alignment
The Business Strategy provides the context. By aligning the IT strategy with business objectives ensures that everyone is working towards the same goals, thereby increasing the organisation’s effectiveness. IT initiatives that are closely linked to the organisation’s strategy are more likely to be valuable tools. - Process and Governance
Process and governance considers the end to end IT processes required to support and manage the IT function. Governance relates to the overarching guidelines, responsibilities and control required to manage the IT function and ensure adherence to the IT strategy. - Organisation and Sourcing
This step considers how the IT organisation and capabilities support the business, including internal IT and business relationship management. It also considers the ideal structure, roles and skills of internal IT and the potential procurement of external resources, outsourcing of functions and third party supplier management. - Portfolio and Financials
Portfolio and Financials focuses on the commercials whereby IT initiatives are prioritised based on how they support the business strategy and their financial return. It takes into consideration the investment and financial resources required for the respective IT initiatives and ongoing IT support for the business. - Systems and Technology
Finally, this step examines all the business functions and considers the enabling technology solutions and IT infrastructure required by each function, including hardware, connectivity and system software.
Addressing an organisation’s IT initiatives through this holistic approach ensures that it is striving to achieve the right business goals, that the correct budget is allocated, costs are kept under control and that IT initiatives are implemented efficiently so that the best possible results can be achieved.
Cubility is a management and technology consultancy that works with businesses to solve operational problems, improve compliance and manage change well. If your business needs assistance, please get in touch. We would love to hear from you.
