Zavanti have announced their participation at the Nottinghamshire Construction Symposium, which takes place on October 7 at New College Nottingham (NCN). Aimed at a broad range of construction professionals, the Symposium intends to act as a catalyst for improvement in the construction industry.
Click here to read the full press release
13 August, 2009
27 July, 2009
The ‘Problem’ with Project Management
In his latest blog post, Jed Simms argues that it is not so much that ‘project management’ is the problem, its just that it is not the solution!
He explains that too often in people’s minds ‘project management’ is seen as the same as ‘project delivery’ — but it is not. ‘Project Management’ is the set of processes that organises, structures and controls project activities and is the equivalent of any other ‘management’ activity.
Simms uses a production line as an example, in that the operators create the goods (the value) and management organises the work, plans the production, pre-empts or deals with problems and so on. Management organises, structures and controls the value generating activities but does not directly generate or deliver the value.
In his view, this is why ‘project management’ has had so much difficulty trying to quantify its value. Project management is not, therefore, part of the value delivery stream (in our six stream model). Project management has to justify its contribution. Few would argue that large, complex programs of work can be effectively delivered without effective project or program organising, structuring and controlling. However, these processes contribute to, rather than directly deliver, value.
Simms advises that before applying project management techniques to projects you need to establish that the time and effort involved in project management will be offset by the value to the project (as opposed to the business).
This value can be in terms of:
Reduced project duration — benefits faster
Reduced wasted effort — less cost
More motivated, focused staff — increased productivity
Increased clarity of what is should be happening — increased (progress, financial, direction) control
Less risk — more certainty
Fewer issues — less unnecessary effort
Increased stakeholder support/comfort — greater business support
To read more or to leave a comment please see the full article at: http://www.valuedeliverymanagement.com/blog/2009/07/the-problem-with-project-management/
He explains that too often in people’s minds ‘project management’ is seen as the same as ‘project delivery’ — but it is not. ‘Project Management’ is the set of processes that organises, structures and controls project activities and is the equivalent of any other ‘management’ activity.
Simms uses a production line as an example, in that the operators create the goods (the value) and management organises the work, plans the production, pre-empts or deals with problems and so on. Management organises, structures and controls the value generating activities but does not directly generate or deliver the value.
In his view, this is why ‘project management’ has had so much difficulty trying to quantify its value. Project management is not, therefore, part of the value delivery stream (in our six stream model). Project management has to justify its contribution. Few would argue that large, complex programs of work can be effectively delivered without effective project or program organising, structuring and controlling. However, these processes contribute to, rather than directly deliver, value.
Simms advises that before applying project management techniques to projects you need to establish that the time and effort involved in project management will be offset by the value to the project (as opposed to the business).
This value can be in terms of:
Reduced project duration — benefits faster
Reduced wasted effort — less cost
More motivated, focused staff — increased productivity
Increased clarity of what is should be happening — increased (progress, financial, direction) control
Less risk — more certainty
Fewer issues — less unnecessary effort
Increased stakeholder support/comfort — greater business support
To read more or to leave a comment please see the full article at: http://www.valuedeliverymanagement.com/blog/2009/07/the-problem-with-project-management/
23 July, 2009
Yeah, but what does the software do?
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.
Related Articles
Benefits focussed projects
Scary Requirements
The Dangers of Automation
Read the original blog post here - - http://www.valuedeliverymanagement.com/blog/2009/07/yeah-but-what-does-the-software-do/
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.
Related Articles
Benefits focussed projects
Scary Requirements
The Dangers of Automation
Read the original blog post here - - http://www.valuedeliverymanagement.com/blog/2009/07/yeah-but-what-does-the-software-do/
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
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