Technology Transformation: Why smaller steps are better when it comes to change

Have you ever been involved in delivering a technology transformation programme that is so big that it scares you, just as much as it excites you? The chances are if you've worked in a large enterprise or consulting environment, that you've been in that position more than once.

New technology, multiple stakeholders, huge budgets, lack of documentation, new teams. There are so many factors that may increase the uncertainty around your outcomes.

While large projects may be a great way to boost the ego and profile of those involved, they are also notoriously difficult to deliver and rarely create the value they promised at the beginning. Therefore, are they worth the risk, when there is a much simpler approach?

One of the key lessons I have learned in my 25 years of governing and delivering change, is smaller projects that deliver incremental change in faster cycles are the real transformation champions.

But why is this?

• Baby Steps, Giant Leaps: While an overall roadmap may add up to a large programme of work. Delivering smaller releases of targeted change lets the project owner experiment, learn, and adapt the route to value on the fly.
• Less is More: Smaller, focused efforts mean quicker wins, happier teams and clients. That in turn will create a positive momentum and buy-in to future investment.
• Avoid the massive potholes: Massive projects are complex beasts, riddled with hidden costs and unforeseen problems. Smaller wins keep things manageable, allowing you to course-correct before costs spiral and confidence is lost.
• Faster Fireworks: Who wants to wait months or years to see results? Smaller projects will generate incremental gains and value quicker, giving you those sweet "aha!" moments and a constant stream of improvements to keep clients

Remember: Small wins are stepping stones to big goals. Focus on delivering value in manageable chunks, and you'll be amazed at how much faster you start to see the improvements

Bonus Tip: Celebrate every win, big or small! A little recognition goes a long way in keeping your team motivated and clients invested.

If you liked this article I wrote about incremental change and marginal gains back in February. Go on give it a read. You know you want to.

Hi, I'm Rich, a Transformation Director with over 25 years of delivery experience. Having worked with internal and external clients on technology enabled transformation for most of my career, I'm looking to share some of the lessons I have learned over the years. Oh, I'm also looking for a new role, so please connect if you'd like to discuss working together on a fractional, contract or permanent basis.