Project Objectives
Programme Scope & Goals
- The client’s IT department was tasked with replacing its existing ERP solution (Microsoft Dynamics AX).
- The decision was made to replace Microsoft Dynamics AX with multiple separate systems rather than a direct replacement.
- The programme was identified as the largest and most complex technology transformation the firm had ever undertaken.
Key Deadlines & Expectations
- Brighter joined the programme midway through its lifecycle with the firm targeting Go-Live within the year.
- Given the late-stage involvement, a full-throttle approach was required, ensuring on-time and high-quality delivery of all Brighter milestones.
Challenges & Barriers
Key Issues Facing the Client
- The programme was already in full delivery mode when Brighter joined, but fundamental programme management practices were lacking.
- The programme involved multiple project managers and workstream leads, creating complex dependencies and competing priorities.
- Delivery was often chaotic, with critical path activities at risk due to governance gaps.
Why the Client Needed Brighter’s Expertise
- The programme lacked structured RAID management, clear reporting mechanisms, financial tracking, and Change Control governance.
- Existing risk processes were outdated and ineffective, making it difficult for senior leadership to assess key delivery risks.
- Programme reporting had become a tick-box exercise, offering little value and failing to highlight critical pain points.
Brighter’s Solution & Approach
RAID Management Overhaul
- Introduced a refreshed Risk & Issue Management Process, ensuring Project Managers and Workstream Leads followed a structured approach.
- The previous RAID framework had become a dumping ground for problems rather than a tool for managing clear impact assessments and mitigation plans.
- The new approach resulted in a fully functional RAID, allowing senior leadership to make informed decisions about major programme risks.
Enhanced Programme Reporting
- Redesigned the reporting framework, shifting from generic status updates to issue-driven reporting.
- Introduced a focused escalation process, ensuring that senior leadership could immediately identify major risks and roadblocks.
- Eliminated unnecessary reporting, saving time and effort while improving decision-making efficiency.
Governance & Process Improvements
- Streamlined programme operations, ensuring structured and efficient workflows for senior leadership.
- Established robust governance mechanisms, critical for a complex transformation programme.
- Introduced financial tracking and change control governance, ensuring that programme activities remained aligned with budget and strategic goals.
The Impact & Results
Improved Risk & Issue Management
A structured RAID process provided clearer insights into programme risks, improving decision-making.
More Effective Reporting
The introduction of focused, action-driven reports ensured that leadership could easily identify and address key challenges.
Governance & Compliance Strengthened
Stronger adherence to structured governance processes, ensuring compliance with best practices and regulatory standards.
Greater Visibility for Senior Leadership
Programme leadership gained real-time insights into project risks, escalations, and critical milestones.
Simplified Programme Delivery
Reduced unnecessary complexities, ensuring a more structured and efficient approach to achieving programme objectives.
Conclusion
Brighter Consultancy’s expertise in programme governance, reporting, and risk management played a crucial role in stabilising and enhancing the delivery of this high-profile IT transformation programme.
By implementing structured RAID management, enhanced reporting frameworks, and governance processes, Brighter ensured that senior leadership had the visibility, tools, and processes needed to drive successful programme execution.
This engagement exemplifies Brighter’s ability to rapidly assess, improve, and embed best practice project management principles in large-scale, high-stakes transformation programmes.
