A systems transformation doesn’t necessarily relate to the computer system. Instead, a systems transformation relates to how the people, processes, systems, metrics, costs and more all come together to deliver profitable growth – or not! And, as one of my potential clients put it – whether we are blind or are able to see where we are going. Can you “see” where you are going?
We have received an increasing number of these types of calls lately. Perhaps it is because it is harder than it sounds to achieve a systems transformation!
For example, in the three situations that would relate to this topic that we’re dealing with currently, it has built up to this need for a systems transformation over time. For example, in all three situations, there has been one or more “key resource” that knew how to navigate the ‘system’ to deliver customer service, profit and success in some aspect of the business (whether related to inventory, pricing, procurement, margins etc.). If the ‘system’ wasn’t in place to provide sustainability (which is definitely not uncommon) and the key resource changes in some respect or leaves the business, a BIG gap slowly emerges.
Do you need a systems transformation before an unwelcome surprise appears out of the blue?