Rizing Evolution – The Future Proofed Enterprise Podcast

Episode 11 Summary: Your Ideal IT Project Team: Who, What, Where?

Building an effective IT project team is essential for successful digital transformation.

In episode 11 of Rizing Evolution: The Future-Proofed Enterprise podcast, host Bonnie Graham explored the critical elements of assembling, retaining, and maximizing IT project teams with a panel of experts: Bonnie Tinder, Paul Rose, Courtney Byrd, and Lauren Reinhart.

Their discussion provided insights for leaders seeking to simplify the complexities of digital transformation.

Key Takeaways

Define Clear Objectives

Successful projects start with a collective understanding of outcomes, impacts, and goals.

Select the Right Talent

Internal A-players who can think creatively are invaluable, but ensure they are supported to balance responsibilities.

Minimize Team Turnover

High turnover disrupts knowledge transfer and jeopardizes project success.

Embrace Data Quality

“Garbage in, garbage out” remains true. Clean, reliable data is foundational for using new technologies effectively.

Foster Transparency and Collaboration

Transparent communication between clients, vendors, and partners increases alignment and success.

Expert Insights

The Importance of Clear Objectives

Courtney Byrd highlighted the pitfalls of ambiguity, sharing that when she asked leaders to define digital transformation, she received a dozen different answers.

 “If we don’t know what we’re trying to achieve, there is no finish line.” 

Retaining Core Team Members

Bonnie Tinder pointed out that nearly 50% of projects reviewed experience turnover, a factor often linked to poor project outcomes.

 “The fewer changes you make during a project, the higher likelihood it stays on track and is successful.” 

Using Top Talent Without Overloading

Lauren Reinhart stressed the value of engaging top performers while balancing their workload:

“These are the people you can’t afford not to put on the project.”

Paul Rose added:

 “Ensure those resources are freed up – otherwise, they risk becoming overworked and leaving the organization.”

Data Integrity as a Cornerstone

Echoing industry truths, Bonnie Tinder stated:

 “All you’re going to do is lift and shift your garbage system into a new garbage system.”

Courtney Byrd:

“Nobody wants to make bad business decisions faster.”

Embracing Change and Collaboration

Lauren Reinhart encouraged a culture that supports innovation and learning:

“Make sure you have a culture where people are willing to test and see what new technologies can really do.” 

FAQs

Q: What’s the best way to prevent team turnover during a project? 
A: Select partners with a strong track record of stability and build contractual agreements to retain key team members.

Q: How do we ensure data quality in digital transformation? 
A: Begin with a thorough data audit, prioritize cleaning source systems, and establish robust data governance practices.

Q: Why is cultural alignment important in IT projects?
A: Cultural alignment ensures that project goals resonate across teams, fostering collaboration and better adoption of outcomes.

Q: How can internal team members balance their project and day-to-day responsibilities?
A: Support them with clear milestones, redistribute workloads, and grow complementary talent to share the burden.

Read the full episode transcript, view the episode on LinkedIn, or view all the podcast episodes.