Technology is integral to how we operate almost every aspect of business today. Yet almost every director has experienced a technology disaster in one way or another, whether it’s a large budget blowout or a project that just didn’t deliver the promised value to the business.
Major projects
When monitoring change management or major project delivery, too many NEDs are primarily focused on the budget and timetable. And they are important. But the number one priority MUST always be the benefit – “is there actually change happening ?” “Are we actually going to see the outcomes?”.
Rather than being seen as interventionist, deep dives should be seen as critical when a board is approving unfamiliar and high risk projects.
Working in infrastructure forces you to take a longer-term approach to business. There are lessons for all companies in longer-term strategic thinking.