Implementation Success Lives Beyond the Life of the Project

In many cases, successful implementation is about how an organisation adjusts and accommodates new software into their ongoing operations.

According to research from McKinsey & Co., many businesses struggle to maintain the benefits of an initial transformation three years down the line. While changes in strategy or business direction can contribute to this, they aren't the whole story.

The Challenge of Sustained Transformation

Lived experience offers a different perspective. Often, the project is a stretch for the organisation, and there's an underlying assumption that once complete, operations will revert to their previous state.

However, when a project is a stretch, it reshapes the organisation. It's like upgrading from a 20-year-old Corolla to a brand-new Range Rover.

Maintenance and insurance costs will change, and the street parking that was fine for the old car might not suffice for the new one. The new car will need additional attention and services in the first months of ownership. Similarly, the support systems for the old and new cars will differ significantly.

Planning for Long-Term Success

Business leaders must consider what the structure of their teams will look like post-implementation and who will own the ongoing improvements and maintenance of the new system.

This foresight and planning are critical steps that business sponsors often overlook before starting a project.

Case Study: A Successful Implementation

One of our proudest achievements was the first implementation of a specific design software in the Australian market.

We collaborated closely with both business teams and the software provider to ensure project success. While the project was challenging and required continuous improvements, we felt proud of the delivery.

We handed over comprehensive training and requirements documentation, organised priorities and actions for team members, and ensured the software provider understood the client's ongoing concerns. This project concluded smoothly and effectively.

The Role of Operational Teams

However, this is where project managers and consultants step back. The operational teams must take ownership of the new systems and the processes that have evolved.

They need to adapt to new ways of working as the business grows and evolves. If the business team doesn't act and changes aren't embedded with clear ownership, the new system can quickly deteriorate from a smooth ride to a poorly maintained mess.

Conclusion

Implementation success is not just about the project's life cycle but about how well an organisation integrates and maintains new systems in the long run.

By planning ahead and assigning clear ownership, businesses can ensure that their transformations lead to sustained improvements and continued success.

Ready to ensure your next system implementation leads to lasting success? Book a free 20min call today to learn how our expert project management and business improvement strategies can help you achieve your strategic objectives and drive meaningful change within your organisation.

Let’s turn your transformation goals into reality.

Retail improvement, made practical.
Leadership thinking that drives change.

Sign up to receive new articles and strategic guidance.