A cybernetic model to understand the context of complex IT transformation programs Overcoming challenges in current program management frameworks

Abstract

This paper presents a model based on systems thinking principles to address the need for understanding the overall business context of a large IT transformation program. This was as a result of the challenges faced in applying the industry standard program management frameworks to understand the context of an IT Transformation program. IT companies so far went after the low-hanging fruits and what looked like emerging technology a few years ago is commodity business today. IT companies have come of age now and are managing billion-dollar plus deals. In today's fast paced business environment most of the programs are very large and complex in nature. Complexity in IT transformation programs is compounded by the changes in business contexts and the technologies they deal with. Still in most organizations, comprehensive program management framework remain more the exception than rule, leaving managers to frame their own rules - pick up the pieces - as each program takes on its own avatar. This often leads to losing focus on the core program objectives. In today's global village teams have become virtual, onshore, near-shore and offshore, cutting across cultures, thus throwing up newer challenges. Issues of uniformity and consistency need to be addressed effectively.