people, technology, projects, change

Resources

**Note: that this component could be combined with the other Organizational components of Structure & Culture. The Organizational Components would then become Organisational Structure, Organizational Culture, and Organisational Resources. It is included here as a separate component because is it often overlooked yet is a key antecedent to successful change and transformation initiatives. 

Overview

Rationale

Adequate resource allocation is crucial to ensure the successful implementation of a transformation program. This includes financial resources, human resources, and other organisational assets that support the program’s execution and enable the achievement of its objectives.

Resources involves assessing resource requirements, securing necessary funding, and allocating human resources and other assets to support the transformation initiative.

Key Activities & Outputs

Resource requirements assessment; budget planning and approval; resource allocation (e.g., staffing, equipment, facilities); and ongoing resource management and adjustment as needed.


Introduction

The Resources component of the Transformation Management Framework is critical for the successful implementation of a digital transformation program. Ensuring that the necessary human, financial, technological, and physical resources are identified, allocated, and managed effectively throughout the program helps to minimise risks, optimise resource utilization, and enhance project outcomes. This chapter provides a detailed discussion of the key sub-components of the Resources component, along with the associated activities and artifacts.

Resource Identification and Allocation

Resource identification and allocation involves determining the resources required for the program and ensuring their availability and commitment throughout the project lifecycle. This includes human resources, such as project team members, subject matter experts, and support staff, as well as financial resources, technology assets, and physical infrastructure.

Key activities within this sub-component include

  • Assessing resource requirements: Estimate the resources needed to deliver the program, based on project scope, complexity, and duration.
  • Identifying available resources: Identify existing resources within the organisation that can be allocated to the program, as well as potential external resources that may be needed.
  • Allocating resources: Assign resources to specific tasks or activities within the program, ensuring that they are available and committed as needed.

Employee Resources

A successful transition to the new system or environment requires that employees have access to the necessary resources, tools, and equipment. To ensure a smooth transition, it is important to assess employee resource needs early in the program and plan for their acquisition, distribution, and setup.

Key activities within this sub-component include

  • Identifying employee resource needs: Determine the resources that employees will require to perform their roles effectively in the new environment, such as software, hardware, or training materials.
  • Acquiring and distributing resources: Source and procure the necessary resources and distribute them to employees as needed.
  • Setting up resources: Ensure that resources are properly installed, configured, and ready for use by employees.

Vendor and Partner Management

Engaging with external vendors, partners, and service providers is often a critical aspect of a digital transformation program. Effective vendor and partner management involves identifying, selecting, and engaging with these external parties, developing contracts and service level agreements, establishing clear communication channels, and monitoring their performance throughout the program.

Key activities within this sub-component include

  • Identifying potential vendors and partners:Research and evaluate potential vendors, partners, and service providers based on their capabilities, experience, and alignment with the program objectives.
  • Selecting and engaging vendors and partners: Choose the most suitable external parties and establish contractual agreements, defining the scope of work, deliverables, timelines, and performance expectations.
  • Monitoring vendor performance: Regularly review and assess the performance of vendors and partners against contractual obligations and program objectives and address any issues or concerns as needed.

Artifacts

The following artifacts may be produced as part of the Resources component of the Transformation Management Framework

  • Resource requirements: A document outlining the human, financial, technological, and physical resources needed for the program.
  • Resource allocation plan: A plan detailing the assignment of resources to specific tasks or activities within the program, ensuring their availability and commitment.
  • Resource management process: A set of procedures and guidelines for the ongoing identification, allocation, monitoring, and management of resources throughout the program.

Summary

The Resources component is essential for the successful implementation of a digital transformation program, as it ensures that the necessary resources are identified, allocated, and managed effectively.

Key sub-components include resource identification and allocation, employee resources, and vendor and partner management.

Producing and maintaining artifacts, such as resource requirements, resource allocation plans, and resource management processes, can help to optimise resource utilization and enhance project outcomes.