Navigating the IT-GBS Relationship: Challenges and Solutions

Join us in bridging the gap between IT and GBS for successful technology transformation. Explore the dynamics between IT and GBS leaders as CIO Jennifer Crites and VP-GBS Amit Yadav navigate tech decision-making. Gain valuable insights on RPA and discover effective budget strategies and value measurement. Tune in to this informative podcast episode and unlock the keys to IT-GBS collaboration.

Tech-GBS Dynamics:
This theme delves into the intricate relationship dynamics between IT leaders (CIOs) and Global Business Services (GBS) leaders. It highlights the often contrasting perspectives and challenges these two critical organizational roles face when working together to shape technology initiatives. Exploring the day-to-day interactions, decision-making processes, and communication breakdowns that can occur, this theme offers insights into the delicate balance of power, priorities, and the impact on innovation within the organization. It serves as a window into the complexities that must be navigated to harmonize these two essential functions effectively.

Technology Decision-Making:
Within this theme, the podcast explores the critical process of making technology decisions within an organization. It examines the roles and responsibilities of IT and GBS leaders in driving these decisions and emphasizes the necessity of aligning technology choices with the specific needs and objectives of the business. This theme offers valuable insights into the strategies, criteria, and considerations that guide technology decision-making, providing listeners with a roadmap for ensuring that technology investments are closely tied to the organization's overarching goals and strategies.
Robotic Process Automation
Robotic Process Automation (RPA) takes center stage in this theme. The discussion goes beyond the surface level to explore both the potential benefits and potential pitfalls of RPA implementation. Listeners gain a deeper understanding of how RPA can be leveraged as a powerful tool for process enhancement rather than simply automating existing workflows. The conversation dives into real-world examples, challenges faced during RPA projects, and the best practices that can maximize its value in streamlining operations and improving efficiency.
Budget Management
Within the budget management theme, the podcast unpacks the strategies and considerations behind the effective allocation of financial resources for technology projects. It underscores the significance of aligning budget decisions with the organization's strategic goals. By exploring real-world scenarios and practical insights, listeners gain a clearer understanding of how to strike the right balance between funding various tech initiatives while ensuring that these investments support the company's long-term vision. The theme provides valuable guidance on optimizing resource allocation for maximum impact.
Measuring Business Value
The challenge of quantifying the business value of IT projects post-implementation takes the spotlight in this theme. The conversation dives into the complexities surrounding value realization and highlights the need for comprehensive frameworks to evaluate and measure the realized value of technology initiatives. It emphasizes the importance of accountability, emphasizing that outcomes should align with pre-defined expectations. Through real-world examples and discussions, listeners gain valuable insights into how to effectively assess and communicate the true business impact of technology investments. Office of the Fairytale for a Reason.

Quotes

“My experience with RPA has been a disaster. When GBS invested heavily without IT consultation, it resulted in chaos, costing the company money and damaging our reputation. "
- Jennifer Crites, CIO, CDO, PostNL
“I've had mixed results, largely good though, with RPA. I think it again comes down to how you are using it right. There are multiple aspects of it. ”
- Amit Yadav, VP - GBS, RS Group plc

Episode resources

If you enjoyed this episode, then please either:

Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts
Follow on Spotify
Check out The GBS Masterminds Podcast