A number of our clients are privately owned businesses, some of these being family owned and operated. Interestingly we have been asked on several occasions to help reposition the business. That can mean anything from positioning the business for sale; changing the structure to ensure sustainability; or revamping the information systems and business processes.
This is where an Enterprise Architecture can provide substantial benefit. The Enterprise Architecture can identify the current state, define the to-be state and identify the roadmap that will help with the transition. We can look at capability and competencies to ensure that the business has the internal ability to achieve what it needs to achieve. Gaps in technology, process, people capability and information can be identified and changes planned. The blueprint for the new state can then be developed and actioned.
Most people think enterprise architecture is purely an IT function. This could not be further from the truth. In our world enterprise means business.
Our tips for transitioning your business:
- Know what you want to achieve – positioning for sale, growth or sustainability.
- Don’t let perfection get in the way of success.
- Accept that not everything will go smoothly.
- Allocate appropriate resources.
- Define the current state.
- Plan the “to-be” state.
- Identify your differentiator and protect and enhance it.
- Align systems, process, people and information.
- Identify the business drivers for the “to-be” state.
- Identify and manage issues and risks.
- Enjoy the journey.
