Bridging the software gap: a call to non-tech leaders managing tech projects

In today's digital age, software has become an integral part of nearly every business, regardless of the industry. From customer portals to internal management systems, software solutions drive efficiency, enhance customer experience, and provide a competitive edge. However, there's a growing concern: companies whose core business isn't software are often stumbling when it comes to managing software projects effectively.

Many organizations outsource their software development to third-party vendors or establish development centers in cost-effective regions. While this approach can be financially appealing, it often leads to a hands-off mentality among managers and executives. The prevailing thought is that once the project is outsourced, the responsibility ends there. Unfortunately, this couldn't be further from the truth.

Software projects require active involvement from management to ensure they align with business objectives, meet quality standards, and are sustainable in the long run. Without this engagement, companies risk ending up with products that are misaligned with their needs, fraught with issues, or, worse, destined to fail.

You don't need to be a software professional to manage a software project effectively, but you do need to understand key concepts that influence its success:

• Software development life cycle (SDLC): Understanding the stages of software development helps in setting realistic timelines and expectations. It also aids in identifying potential bottlenecks and planning for them.
• Maintenance and technical debt: Software isn't a set-and-forget solution. Post-launch, it requires regular updates and maintenance. Ignoring this can lead to technical debt, where outdated code or systems become costly to fix or upgrade.
• Cost management: Beyond initial development costs, consider expenses related to updates, scalability, and integration with other systems. A comprehensive budget prevents unpleasant surprises down the line.
• Quality assurance: Implementing checks and balances ensures the product meets required standards. This might involve hiring third-party auditors or setting up an internal team to monitor progress and quality.
• Development environments: Familiarity with development tools and environments helps in understanding the challenges the development team might face and facilitates better communication.

Neglecting these aspects doesn't just risk project failure—it almost guarantees it. According to multiple industry studies, a significant percentage of software projects fail due to mismanagement, lack of clear objectives, and poor communication. For businesses, this translates to wasted resources, missed opportunities, and potential reputational damage.

Consider the construction industry: with thousands of years of history, we've developed standards, regulations, and best practices that ensure buildings are safe and fit for purpose. Software engineering, by contrast, is a relatively young discipline. We're still learning, standardizing, and understanding the best ways to deliver robust software solutions.

Just as you wouldn't construct a building without proper oversight, planning, and expertise, you shouldn't approach software projects any differently. They require the same level of diligence and understanding to ensure they stand the test of time.

Taking proactive steps:

• Educate yourself and your team: Invest time in learning about software development basics. Workshops, seminars, or online courses can provide valuable insights.
• Hire or consult experts: If in-house expertise is lacking, consider hiring experienced professionals or consultants who can bridge the knowledge gap.
• Engage regularly with development teams: Maintain open lines of communication with those developing your software. Regular updates and feedback loops can catch issues early.
• Emphasize quality over cost: While budget considerations are important, opting for the cheapest solution often leads to higher costs in the long run due to poor quality and the need for extensive revisions.

Software is an extension of your business operations and, in many cases, a direct touchpoint with your customers. It deserves the same attention and strategic planning as any other critical business function. By taking an active role in your software projects, understanding the fundamental concepts, and ensuring quality oversight, you set your company up for success in the digital realm.

The future is digital, and businesses that adapt and invest wisely in their software initiatives will lead the way. Don't let a lack of engagement be the reason your project becomes another statistic in the list of failed software endeavors.