As organisations are getting back on track, refocusing on extending digital services to their members and improving internal efficiencies, we are seeing seeing a rapid increase in false starts and sub optimal solutions.
We have focused on the importance of planning in previous blogs, understanding the organisations full business requirements before starting to look for new digital software partners; but we wanted to focus on the importance of planning with an independent approach.
It’s all too easy to get wrapped up in what a technology has to offer, how easy it will be to integrate in to your current systems but in reality this can be completely the opposite. It’s better to map your business requirements, understand your objectives, take a step back and evaluate your business landscape and then select the right tools based on this. It may not be the software with the best features, but if this fits with wider systems and solutions already in the organisation, and its culture, this will save you time, money and considerable heartache.
It’s important to remember software partners are demoing and proposing solutions based on a blank sheet of paper, an ideal situation. It’s not possible for them to know all the systems that need to be integrated, data streams and reporting requirements.
“Chrysalis Digital was great, right from the start it was clear they understood us as a society, could see the problem and had the knowledge of the market to guide us in making the right decisions.”
Jonathan Wood, Head of Society Programmes BES
Ensuring you have planned and mapped your business requirements is the place to start, but taking a truly independent approach is vital, and will save you time and money. In all the recent examples we have been discussing with organisations, we have seen decisions swayed by the initial demos but then disappointment with the solution in place or challenged inadequate reporting or data integrations.
‘Ben’s in-depth knowledge of the Membership sector, his ability to leverage experience in similar organisations, combined with his supplier agnostic approach made him our first choice.’
Deborah Evans, Chief Executive, LLG
When you are embarking on a digital transformation of this nature, and investing a significant budget, planning and taking independent advice can help you make the right long term decision for your organisation.
We have written a number of articles that may be of interest on your digital journey – click here. Never be afraid to ask, we are always happy to offer unbiased advice and recommendations.
Chrysalis Digital provides a digital transformation service designed to help build a more agile, efficient and innovative organisation. With its broad cross-sector experience Chrysalis has helped many organisations map their digital path and through careful planning and assessment, choose the right technology partners. Chrysalis Digital is 100% agnostic when recommending CMS/ CRM and digital suppliers to its clients.
If you need any help with the next steps in your independent journey please call Ben Sturt on 07469 768990 or email info@chrysalisdigital.co.uk