Through my years of managing complex IT programs, people often ask what the critical differentiator is for a successful delivery. They might imagine a well-practised methodology, a distinctive leadership style, or a tailored blend of strategies. But in my experience, successful program delivery is a combination of Science and Art.
I see Science as the essential foundation of a program – skills such as scope, issue, risk, and financial management are all crucial to minimising program failure. These are core skills that are broadly taught and easily learned, helping program managers identify and address delivery concerns early on. Yet interestingly, while Science can prevent failure, it doesn’t guarantee success.
To me, the critical differentiator for success is the Art – it complements and strengthens my Science skills by helping me navigate a web of interpersonal relationships within a stressful environment. It’s an elusive combination of core personal values and behaviours, creativity and intuition – skills that, I’ve found, are best learned through observation and experience.
One of the most challenging skills I’ve acquired – and the most rewarding – is the ability to influence across multiple levels of an organisation. Communicating and influencing at the C-level is very different to chatting with a development or testing team. Adjusting my style to suit the audience ensures that my conversations lead to actionable outcomes.
I’ve been brought in to recover multiple programs where the delivery approach was never going to succeed. No matter how talented and hardworking the team, a program won’t succeed if it’s taking the wrong path. My ability to influence at the Executive level has led to changes in delivery strategies, giving programs a chance of success.
Over the years, I've learned the importance of grounding discussions in facts, which enables me to fearlessly present ideas. Maintaining a relentless focus on achieving the best outcomes for the organisation must take priority over attachment to a failing strategy.
As a Founder of Lonsdale Solutions, I’m fortunate to have the opportunity to mentor, coach and develop others. It brings me great satisfaction to see the next generation of Program Managers learning and applying the Art in their work. We always wish to leave our clients better off for having worked with us, and I hope that sharing the Art makes a positive impact on the folk I’m fortunate enough to work alongside.
I’m passionate about improving program delivery for organisations – I’d love to hear from you if you’re interested in doing the same.
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