by Jed Simms, July 21, 2009
Two things happened recently on the same day in the same organisation.
The first was I received a copy of a post implementation review report that basically said “We don’t know if we got the benefits from this project as the KPIs and other benefit measures were largely vague, unmeasurable or irrelevant.” Overall, the conclusion was that the project had ‘failed’ to deliver the results and benefits expected.
Not altogether surprising when you have ‘vague, unmeasurable and irrelevant’ goals. As the Cheshire Cat said to Alice in Wonderland, “If you don’t know where you’re going, any road will take you there!”
As frequent readers of my blog will know if there is one thing I hammer as vital to project success is the need to spend the time clearly and thoroughly define your desired business outcomes in clear, measurable terms; and then focus your whole project on their realisation.
But many people don’t get it.
The second was a workshop with some quite senior management. We’re developing a business case for this client and defining their value proposition in clear, measurable terms. Their reaction was …
“Too many benefits” I wonder how many times they’ve said that of a project!
“Too ambitious” We might actually deal with the root problems if we take this approach. Can’t we just deal with the easy symptoms and look like we’re doing something?
“Yeah, but what does the software do?” Thinking is hard, can’t we just adopt the software?
I was pleased to see that even the software expert said, “If there is anything I’ve learned from installing systems over the past 10 years it is that unless the business knows exactly what it is trying to achieve the software installation will be a failure.”
What this experience makes clear is that software and demos are being used as a replacement for thinking. And this is the nub of the problem — that people need help to think and that so many of the problems we have are as a result of a reluctance or inability to think.
How do you address this problem? Post your comments below.
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Read the original blog post here - - http://www.valuedeliverymanagement.com/blog/2009/07/yeah-but-what-does-the-software-do/
23 July, 2009
13 July, 2009
UDIA (Qld) launch the Quarterly Development and Construction Industry Performance Report
The first quarterly Development and Construction Industry Performance Report has been released by the Queensland Urban Development Industry Association (UDIA) today.
The purpose of this new report is to closely monitor building approvals and unemployment in the development industry in these difficult economic times. A further purpose is to compare the performance of the various markets around Australia to more fully understand why some markets have significantly difficult periods and yet others appear to be able to continue functioning at a very successful level.
The report contains some interesting and very perplexing findings, with state government and local authority legislation and policies citied as the major issues causing the significant underbuild and under performance of Queensland development industry today. The complexity of legislation, significant overregulation of the industry, and more complex subdivision and building requirements are adding to the cost of property purchases. The report also discloses that the state is currently building at around half the rate that is required to meet underlying demand.
Housing affordability is another concern, with the same developers in Victoria as those who operate in Queensland delivering the same house in Victoria for $100,000 to $125,000 less. The report also highlights that the continued implementation of user pays charges for head works infrastructure has done little to ease matters. However, some local authorities have taken steps to phase in or restrict the impact of these charges as they are aware that an uncompetitive environment is the enemy of affordability.
In conclusion the report emphasises that the combination of an expensive market, the GFC and increased taxes and charges have already cost 18,800 construction and development employees their livelihoods and asks the question - “Where to from here?”
To read the full report click here
The purpose of this new report is to closely monitor building approvals and unemployment in the development industry in these difficult economic times. A further purpose is to compare the performance of the various markets around Australia to more fully understand why some markets have significantly difficult periods and yet others appear to be able to continue functioning at a very successful level.
The report contains some interesting and very perplexing findings, with state government and local authority legislation and policies citied as the major issues causing the significant underbuild and under performance of Queensland development industry today. The complexity of legislation, significant overregulation of the industry, and more complex subdivision and building requirements are adding to the cost of property purchases. The report also discloses that the state is currently building at around half the rate that is required to meet underlying demand.
Housing affordability is another concern, with the same developers in Victoria as those who operate in Queensland delivering the same house in Victoria for $100,000 to $125,000 less. The report also highlights that the continued implementation of user pays charges for head works infrastructure has done little to ease matters. However, some local authorities have taken steps to phase in or restrict the impact of these charges as they are aware that an uncompetitive environment is the enemy of affordability.
In conclusion the report emphasises that the combination of an expensive market, the GFC and increased taxes and charges have already cost 18,800 construction and development employees their livelihoods and asks the question - “Where to from here?”
To read the full report click here
01 July, 2009
Zavanti have joined the Tweetersphere!
With Twitter all the rage at the moment, Zavanti have decided to take the plunge and start tweeting for ourselves!
Aimed at the Property and Construction Sector, our Zavanti_ERP Twitter will keep you posted on all the action at Zavanti! From news and views, product updates and launches, support issues, and special offers.
Why not Follow us today!
Aimed at the Property and Construction Sector, our Zavanti_ERP Twitter will keep you posted on all the action at Zavanti! From news and views, product updates and launches, support issues, and special offers.
Why not Follow us today!
24 June, 2009
Zavanti appoint new reseller to target growing UK market for Property and Construction ERP Solutions
Zavanti is pleased to announce the appointment of MCN Property as an official reseller for Zavanti’s complete Property and Construction Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) suite. The move reflects an increasing demand for Zavanti’s solutions in the UK.
MCN Property is a dynamic development consulting firm offering a full range of professional services for the residential property development sector. As a Zavanti Reseller, they will continue to build and strengthen Zavanti’s UK presence by offering the company’s leading property and construction ERP solutions to their network of clients and industry contacts.
Prior to establishing MCN Property, Mark Newman was a Senior Surveyor with CB Richard Ellis, specialising in development consultancy, residential land agency, and loan and corporate recovery. This role provided him with a detailed insight into the various facets of the construction and development lifecycle, as well as an in-depth understanding of the complete planning system. He has a proven track record for managing and delivering valuations on major mixed-use projects, and providing added value to proposed development schemes.
“This partnership is an additional step forward for Zavanti as we expand our presence in the UK”, says Nick Virr, General Manager Zavanti UK. “We are pleased to welcome MCN Property and are confident that they will be an invaluable asset to our reseller team. Mark’s impeccable consulting skills, and vast experience of the UK industry, combined with Zavanti’s ERP Software, will provide our prospects and MCN’s clients with a complete end-to-end solution, allowing them to operate more efficiently, particularly in times of uncertainty”.
"Zavanti software offers a truly integrated cash-flow management suite which is essential in dealing with the current financial issues developers, contractors and financiers are facing”, says Mark Newman, MCN Property. “Once developers and contractors realise the benefits of the software I believe they will be equally as impressed as I was, and see the real value this software can add to their business."
Zavanti’s world class ERP suite provides seamless integration between the key processes associated with project planning, forecasting and accounting. From initial site and concept feasibility and project estimating through to full financial and subcontractor management, and sales, Zavanti helps developers and construction contractors maintain control over their project finances, information flows and business operations.
MCN Property is a dynamic development consulting firm offering a full range of professional services for the residential property development sector. As a Zavanti Reseller, they will continue to build and strengthen Zavanti’s UK presence by offering the company’s leading property and construction ERP solutions to their network of clients and industry contacts.
Prior to establishing MCN Property, Mark Newman was a Senior Surveyor with CB Richard Ellis, specialising in development consultancy, residential land agency, and loan and corporate recovery. This role provided him with a detailed insight into the various facets of the construction and development lifecycle, as well as an in-depth understanding of the complete planning system. He has a proven track record for managing and delivering valuations on major mixed-use projects, and providing added value to proposed development schemes.
“This partnership is an additional step forward for Zavanti as we expand our presence in the UK”, says Nick Virr, General Manager Zavanti UK. “We are pleased to welcome MCN Property and are confident that they will be an invaluable asset to our reseller team. Mark’s impeccable consulting skills, and vast experience of the UK industry, combined with Zavanti’s ERP Software, will provide our prospects and MCN’s clients with a complete end-to-end solution, allowing them to operate more efficiently, particularly in times of uncertainty”.
"Zavanti software offers a truly integrated cash-flow management suite which is essential in dealing with the current financial issues developers, contractors and financiers are facing”, says Mark Newman, MCN Property. “Once developers and contractors realise the benefits of the software I believe they will be equally as impressed as I was, and see the real value this software can add to their business."
Zavanti’s world class ERP suite provides seamless integration between the key processes associated with project planning, forecasting and accounting. From initial site and concept feasibility and project estimating through to full financial and subcontractor management, and sales, Zavanti helps developers and construction contractors maintain control over their project finances, information flows and business operations.
20 May, 2009
Corda Technologies usher in a new era in Data Visualisation and Performance Dashboards with CenterView 4.0
Corda Technologies, a leader in innovative, real-time data visualisation and performance dashboard software, have announced the release of CenterView 4.0. This new version features a number of enhancements and performance improvements that deliver enterprise-level performance dashboards and advanced visual business intelligence (BI) capabilities.
The new features in CenterView 4.0 provide even greater security and flexibility:
- Corda Mobile Server enhances the CenterView experience for mobile users, making it easier to create and deploy KPIs to mobile devices, supporting new devices, including the Apple iPhone and iPod Touch via the soon-to-be-released Corda Mobile on the iTunes App Store.
- Improved BusinessObjects Connector connects report data to a CenterView dashboard.
- Salesforce.com (SFDC) Connector lets you connect SFDC to your dashboard without having to build your own connector.
- Data visualisation enhancements include enhanced label placement for large data set graphs, including a 'best fit' option, legend headers, and more legend style controls.
- Significantly improved help on wiki.corda.com allows easy product and tutorial search as well as fast documentation updates.
For more information and to start a free trial of CenterView 4.0, Click Here.
"CenterView 4.0 is impressive from its major ease-of-use and performance advancements," said Neal Williams, Corda President and CEO. "Significant data connector additions and refinements as well as the introduction of Corda Mobile carry CenterView 4.0 into the realm of a major release.”
“We have delivered cutting-edge capabilities with CenterView 4.0, ushering in a new era in data visualisation and performance dashboards,” said Mark Christensen, Corda VP Sales and Marketing.
Corda Technologies is the leading provider of enterprise solutions for creating dashboards and interactive data visualisation solutions that enhance performance management and smart decision-making. For more than twelve years, Corda has led the evolution of data visualisation from static charts and graphs to interactive, intuitive strategic dashboards. Its award-winning solutions include developer tools, enterprise server products and professional services that improve business performance and enable customers worldwide to enhance bottom-line results. For more information please visit http://www.corda.com
Zavanti are the authorised reseller for Corda Products and Services in Australia and New Zealand
20 April, 2009
How PPM Provides Direction in Uncertain Economic Times
In a recent article, From the Project Manager's Desk, Industry Observation, Alex Hankewicz discusses how Project Portfolio Management (PPM) can provide direction in uncertain economic times.
Hankewicz explains that, "PPM is a process to obtain project management information of all resources, time, budget, and labor skills in order to align, manage, and review these elements–and to ensure deliverables are being met in terms of project milestones, in accordance with the work breakdown schedule".
In times of economic and business uncertainty, PPM may be the prescription to obtain successful IT project management results. However, Hankewicaz advises that, IT departments in many organisations are viewed by some in senior management circles as a huge money pit, a kind of necessary evil that generates little in terms of ongoing business development or growth.
As a result, it’s comes as no surprise that organisations take the reflex action to rapidly slash IT projects and budgets. However, Hankewicaz argues that, "without tools such as PPM to fully analyse the return on investments of IT projects, the organisation could be faced with even greater financial risk by either cutting badly needed IT infrastructure improvements or by maintaining costly legacy applications that in some cases are expensive to support".
Hankewicaz notes that as business looks for ways to reduce operating expenditures during the current economic slowdown, delaying and reducing IT project spending may not be the best long-term approach. He adds that a PPM solution equips an IT manager with the ability to measure an organisation’s available resources against pending projects, and align resources with business objectives, in order to fully measure return on investment (ROI) prior to launching a project.
In using a PPM tool, Hankewicaz believes that an organisation has the ability to position IT initiatives into a lexicon that key non-IT-management personnel can understand. Project spending can be viewed as way of analysing from both the total cost of ownership (TCO) and ROI perspectives and understanding how these projects relate to overall business strategy initiatives.
To conclude, Hankewicaz advises that PPM tools have been on the market for at least ten years, and economic slowdowns are not the only criteria to demonstrate PPM’s benefits. For example, the information collected from managing past projects can be used for estimating and planning future projects. If one can reduce subsequent project costs by as little as 5 percent spending on redundant processes and testing, then the cost savings can be significant. In some organisations, IT spending represents as much as 50 percent of the overall capital budget and it is with this mindset that PPM can respond to determining the value on how those investments will generate a return to support business objectives. One of the limiting factors of PPM, however, is that although it has provided business with a view to evaluate the value of IT projects, it can only focus on new project investment. If project spending represents 25 percent of an IT budget then this means 75 percent of an IT organisation’s existing infrastructure may not be measured using this tool.
Hankewicz explains that, "PPM is a process to obtain project management information of all resources, time, budget, and labor skills in order to align, manage, and review these elements–and to ensure deliverables are being met in terms of project milestones, in accordance with the work breakdown schedule".
In times of economic and business uncertainty, PPM may be the prescription to obtain successful IT project management results. However, Hankewicaz advises that, IT departments in many organisations are viewed by some in senior management circles as a huge money pit, a kind of necessary evil that generates little in terms of ongoing business development or growth.
As a result, it’s comes as no surprise that organisations take the reflex action to rapidly slash IT projects and budgets. However, Hankewicaz argues that, "without tools such as PPM to fully analyse the return on investments of IT projects, the organisation could be faced with even greater financial risk by either cutting badly needed IT infrastructure improvements or by maintaining costly legacy applications that in some cases are expensive to support".
Hankewicaz notes that as business looks for ways to reduce operating expenditures during the current economic slowdown, delaying and reducing IT project spending may not be the best long-term approach. He adds that a PPM solution equips an IT manager with the ability to measure an organisation’s available resources against pending projects, and align resources with business objectives, in order to fully measure return on investment (ROI) prior to launching a project.
In using a PPM tool, Hankewicaz believes that an organisation has the ability to position IT initiatives into a lexicon that key non-IT-management personnel can understand. Project spending can be viewed as way of analysing from both the total cost of ownership (TCO) and ROI perspectives and understanding how these projects relate to overall business strategy initiatives.
To conclude, Hankewicaz advises that PPM tools have been on the market for at least ten years, and economic slowdowns are not the only criteria to demonstrate PPM’s benefits. For example, the information collected from managing past projects can be used for estimating and planning future projects. If one can reduce subsequent project costs by as little as 5 percent spending on redundant processes and testing, then the cost savings can be significant. In some organisations, IT spending represents as much as 50 percent of the overall capital budget and it is with this mindset that PPM can respond to determining the value on how those investments will generate a return to support business objectives. One of the limiting factors of PPM, however, is that although it has provided business with a view to evaluate the value of IT projects, it can only focus on new project investment. If project spending represents 25 percent of an IT budget then this means 75 percent of an IT organisation’s existing infrastructure may not be measured using this tool.
14 April, 2009
Software and technology: one for all and all for one
Check out last week's Property Week article by David Lawson which profiles Zavanti's UK Director, Nick Virr.
Nick has been in the property and construction software business for over 15 years now and has recently moved back to the UK from Australia to establish Zavanti's foothold there.
On his return, he found that no one appeared to have created a similar unified program in the UK, thus he saw a new market for Zavanti and is currently doing the rounds of developers there. ‘Because it is a single system, development managers can see the cash flow effects of a released contract, finance managers can see borrowing levels and cash needs, management can see all indicators real time,’ he says.
‘More timely information allows businesses to know exactly how they are operating in real time. There is no need for costly updates to interfaces and no need to get caught between vendors.’
A recession may not seem an obvious time to launch software, but Virr believes the current havoc means that such a system is even more attractive because it can deal with the fast-changing circumstances.
Read the full article here - http://www.propertyweek.com/story.asp?sectioncode=359&storycode=3137519
Nick has been in the property and construction software business for over 15 years now and has recently moved back to the UK from Australia to establish Zavanti's foothold there.
On his return, he found that no one appeared to have created a similar unified program in the UK, thus he saw a new market for Zavanti and is currently doing the rounds of developers there. ‘Because it is a single system, development managers can see the cash flow effects of a released contract, finance managers can see borrowing levels and cash needs, management can see all indicators real time,’ he says.
‘More timely information allows businesses to know exactly how they are operating in real time. There is no need for costly updates to interfaces and no need to get caught between vendors.’
A recession may not seem an obvious time to launch software, but Virr believes the current havoc means that such a system is even more attractive because it can deal with the fast-changing circumstances.
Read the full article here - http://www.propertyweek.com/story.asp?sectioncode=359&storycode=3137519
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