By Stephen Putman, Senior Consultant
I’m catching up on some reading these days, and I’m currently reading Broken Government by John Dean. This book addresses the process of governing in America, diagnoses issues, and offers solutions. In reading this book, this passage intrigued me:
I find this phenomenon in the Business Intelligence world as well. Many organizations have the desire to leverage reporting and analysis to improve decision-making, or have already implemented a program but sense something is “wrong”. Both types of organizations have issues with process - one doesn’t have one, and the other has parts (or all) that are not functioning properly.
At Baseline, we specialize in diagnosing and recommending effective processes for BI programs. However, this is only half the story. Recommendations are one thing - effective action in establishing or correcting process is quite another. It takes commitment, discipline, and persistence. It is difficult simply because it requires change in your entire organization, often by people who have established interests in continuing the status quo. It is important to show that an effective BI system can free people to perform the analysis that adds real value to the organization, and is worth the effort to change their ways.
Accomplishing this change usually requires executive-level commitment and enthusiasm to drive the concepts, techniques, and, yes, processes throughout the organization. A consulting firm can provide you with the tools - it’s up to you to have the will to start the program and drive the change.
Stephen Putman has over 20 years experience supporting client/server and internet-based operations from small offices to major corporations. He has extensive experience in a variety of front-end development tools, as well as relational database design and administration, and is extremely effective in project management and leadership roles.
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