September 201719 Too often I see technology being perceived as the answer without really understanding the problem. It sounds so simple but IT has an almost hypnotic attraction, which needs to be countered by the focus on a business outcome. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to see technology's potential to deliver efficiencies in our workplaces. Over the years, all businesses have invested in some level of technology, in search for the Holy Grail of efficiency. Many have been left scarred with numerous stories of failed attempts along the quest. The reasons for these failures have been varied and are never usually caused by just one thing. However, one area that usually gets caught in the searchlight is program and project management. This is not surprising given these disciplines are exposed to the whole investment process including the sharp-end where the pain becomes most obvious ­ project delivery. Now don't get me wrong, I have seen many a case where pro-ject management was a significant contributor to a project failing. But usually it is the result of number of factors that all conspire. Let's face it, if project delivery was simple, we would have fixed it by now. Unfortunately, it still continues to plague all enterprises.Perhaps understandably, the normal organizational reaction to a major project failure results in a renewed focus on project management. This results in an investment into more (or more experienced) project managers, a renewed interest in project methodologies and, of course, new tools. It also sees the development of, or further investment in, an improved capability of a program and/or projects office(s). Depending on the size of the CXO InsightsDo We Really Understand the Problem?BY PAUL AYERS, CLOUD ENTERPRISE ARCHITECT, ORACLE
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