Managing AM/FM/GIS Projects in Environments of Change

Introduction
Webster defines change as a transformation, modification or alteration. Change is inevitable. Defining and adapting to change within AM/FM/GIS projects is no different and must be managed accordingly. Without a properly structured program to manage change, whether it be in technology, project scope, schedule, organizational structure or the various other “opportunities” that often impacts AM/FM/GIS projects, a project manager severely decreases his chances for success.

Organizational Change Management
AM/FM/GIS implementations often involve organizational changes that can be significant. A corporate culture that is not used to these sometimes radical changes can be strained and the backlash detrimental to the project’s success. Today’s AM/FM/GIS projects are more likely to involve alterations to the corporate mission statement, modifications to the business objectives, reshaping of the organizational structure and reengineered business processes. While a few success Business Process Reegineering (BPR) projects have received significant publicity, the majority of projects--some estimates are as high as 70 percent--are not considered successful by management. That is because a reegineering project that redefines processes without altering the values, shared opinions, and beliefs that supported the old processes is likely to fail. These projects significantly impact not only the way people perform their jobs and interact with others, but also fundamental areas of their self-image, the values that direct their actions, and the attitudes that shape the business.

Many organizations will attempt to roll organizational change management activities into general GIS project management tasks, but with limited success. Those organizations that have had the foresight to recognize, plan for and manage organizational changes apart from the everyday GIS implementation will even go as far as employing a organizational change management specialist. One such company who staffs a change management focused group is Hawaiian Electric Company.