June 27, 2024 • 23 mins
In this latest episode, Carla Sarti, former VP GBS - Lear Corporation, joins Mustansir Saifuddin to share strategies on how organizations and teams can succeed with any IT implementation. From teamwork to fundamental project management, to supplier relations, Carla highlights what's she learned across her storied career path so others can make an even bigger impact with their IT projects.
Carla Sarti was most recently the Vice President of Global Business Services at Lear Corporation – a position she held since April 2018. Prior to this position she was Vice President of Non Production Purchasing and Director of Shared Services.
Prior to Lear, she served as Account Executive at ACS, a Xerox company (now Conduent) where she acted as chief strategy officer and Director of Sales for many large accounts in the Finance and Accounting Outsourcing area. She spent five years at Delphi Corporation in numerous roles of increasing responsibility including managing the SAP environment after implementation and working as a Lean expert for the Cockpits business. She also worked as a plant and divisional financial analyst at TRW and an operational auditor at the Budd Company.
Connect with us:
LinkedIn Carla Sarti
Twitter: @Mmsaifuddin YouTube
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Episode Transcript:
[00:00:00] Mustansir Saifuddin: Welcome to Tech Driven Business brought to you by Innovative Solution Partners. Carla Sarti, a seasoned executive, shares her insights that any team can use for leading successful IT projects. From understanding business processes to the importance of transparency, teamwork, and supplier relations, Carla reveals the key ingredients for project success.
[00:00:30] Welcome to Tech-Driven Business Carla. How are you?
[00:00:33] Carla Sarti: I'm great. Thanks for having me. Great to see you.
[00:00:38] Mustansir Saifuddin: It's great to have you on our show. And I'm glad that , you took the time out to share some of your thoughts and leadership with us today,
[00:00:46] Carla Sarti: Absolutely.
[00:00:48] Mustansir Saifuddin: so our topic is going to be Secrets to successful IT projects. How does it sound to you?
[00:00:55] Carla Sarti: Amazing. It's 1 of my passions.
[00:00:58] Mustansir Saifuddin: I know, I know. And I think that's going to be something that it will be very helpful to our listeners, especially in this day and age where technology is changing so fast. There are so many different options available. And I. T. Is in the middle of all of this. Let me start with this. You know, I want to set the stage.
[00:01:15] So let's begin with this. Can you share some background on how you How did you find yourself leading I. T. Projects you started your career in a totally different arena?
[00:01:29] Carla Sarti: Absolutely. So, yes, I have a business degree of my MBA. I started in audit and very specific businesses, purchasing finance, et cetera. But technology was always something that I was very curious and passionate about. When I was a co op at TRW, the vice president of finance came to me one day and I'm going to date myself a little bit here, but we were on Lotus 1, 2, 3, and he had a disc in his hand and he said, Carla or little kid or whatever he called me.
[00:02:00] Here's a disk of Excel. I would like all of our reports moved from Lotus 1, 2, 3, put on Excel and let's review them next week. And I said, okay, let's go. And so I taught myself Excel and
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:04):
Welcome to Tech Driven Business brought to you by Innovative Solution Partners.
Carla Sarti, a seasoned executive, shares her insights that any team can use for leading successful IT projects.
From understanding business processes to the importance of transparency, teamwork, and supplier relations, Carla reveals the key ingredients for project success.
(00:30):
Welcome to Tech-Driven Business Carla.
How are you? I'm great.
Thanks for having me. 7 00:00:35,128.1 --> 00:00:36,898 Great to see you. 8 00:00:38,217.999 --> 00:00:39,857.9985 It's great to have you on our show. 9 00:00:39,857.9985 --> 00:00:47,168 And I'm glad that you took the time out to share some of your thoughts and leadership with us today, Absolutely.
so our topic is going to be Secrets to successful IT projects.
(00:53):
How does it sound to you? Amazing.
It's 1 of my passions.
I know, I know.
And I think that's going to be something that it will be very helpful to our listeners, especially in this day and age where technology is changing so fast.
There are so many different options available.
And I.
T.
Is in the middle of all of this.
Let me start with this.
(01:14):
You know, I want to set the stage.
So let's begin with this.
.001Can you share some background on how you How did you find yourself leading I. 23 00:01:24,3.001 --> 00:01:24,233.0005 T. 24 00:01:24,233.0005 --> 00:01:30,28.001 Projects you started your career in a totally different arena? Absolutely. 25 00:01:30,68.001 --> 00:01:33,838 So, yes, I have a business degree of my MBA. 26 00:01:34,248.001 --> 00:01:41,68.0005 I started in audit and very specific businesses, purchasing finance, et cetera. 27 00:01:41,308.0015 --> 00:01:45,988.0015 But technology was always something that I was very curious and passionate about. 28 00:01:46,498.0015 --> 00:02:00,393.0015 When I was a co op at TRW, the vice president of finance came to me one day and I'm going to date myself a little bit here, but we were on Lotus 1, 2, 3, and he had a disc in his hand and he said, Carla or little kid or whatever he called me. 29 00:02:00,693.0015 --> 00:02:02,243.0015 Here's a disk of Excel. 30 00:02:02,773.0015 --> 00:02:08,673.0005 I would like all of our reports moved from Lotus 1, 2, 3, put on Excel and let's review them next week. 31 00:02:08,743.0015 --> 00:02:10,863.0015 And I said, okay, let's go. 32 00:02:10,913.0015 --> 00:02:16,213.0015 And so I taught myself Excel and I really started to understand the power of technology. 33 00:02:16,223.0015 --> 00:02:18,533.0015 And that's just such a basic example. 34 00:02:18,533.0015 --> 00:02:18,923.0015 Right. 35 00:02:19,443.0015 --> 00:02:32,568.0015 So while I was still a co op, I got involved in an SAP implementation and That really opened my eyes to what technology can bring, and I've been into it ever since. 36 00:02:32,938.0015 --> 00:02:48,688.0005 So different functional groups I've been in, I've always brought best in class processes along with the technology side, because I think it is, it goes hand in hand, but I've done everything from SAP, Coupa, SharePoint, RPA, and now dabbling in AI. 37 00:02:50,162.9995 --> 00:02:50,862.9995 Absolutely. 38 00:02:50,862.9995 --> 00:02:58,127.9995 You know, it doesn't matter matter where you start? You know, even having a business degree, like you mentioned technology is always with you and it's around you. 39 00:02:58,127.9995 --> 00:03:21,117.9995 So you got to either embrace it and you got to go with the flow or you're going to fight it, right? So I, I like the approach that you mentioned that, you know, your first inital foray into this whole technology area was just, you know, just of the iceberg, right? You got into this thing and now Years later, you are much ingrained in this whole technology stack. 40 00:03:21,147.9995 --> 00:03:24,57.9995 So, let's talk about your experience. 41 00:03:24,107.9995 --> 00:03:25,717.9995 You have decades of experience. 42 00:03:25,767.9995 --> 00:04:00,157.9995 What do you see as some key factors that contribute to the success of IT projects, which is so important? So I'm going to start with the assumption that before you implement any sort of technology, You've really understood your business, right? And where are your business processes? What needs to be cleaned up? You're not just bringing in technology to bring in technology because I don't think that's ever usually successful, but so you've done that and then you've really understood again, the current processes. 43 00:04:01,2.9995 --> 00:04:11,232.9995 The gaps that you have and what is your success criteria? I think a lot of people, a lot of companies don't look at what success looks like at the very beginning. 44 00:04:11,762.9985 --> 00:04:12,862.9995 And they say, Oh, okay. 45 00:04:12,862.9995 --> 00:04:13,72.9995 Yeah. 46 00:04:13,72.9995 --> 00:04:14,352.999 We're just going to implement this. 47 00:04:14,352.999 --> 00:04:24,492.9995 We heard it's the best solution and they don't think through, what are we trying to achieve? That, that really starts dictating what a successful project looks like. 48 00:04:25,182.9995 --> 00:04:27,672.9995 Then you through the whole. 49 00:04:28,102.9995 --> 00:04:28,682.9995 Project. 50 00:04:29,242.9995 --> 00:04:36,252.9995 You obviously have to have the right team members on the project, having an executive sponsor that can break down roadblocks. 51 00:04:37,82.9995 --> 00:04:43,322.9995 I've seen projects that the best ones typically have a business person leading them. 52 00:04:44,67.9995 --> 00:04:47,777.9995 Because they understand what's trying to be accomplished. 53 00:04:47,777.9995 --> 00:04:53,767.9995 Not that IT can't lead projects and they are definitely very integral to the process. 54 00:04:53,897.9995 --> 00:04:59,847.9995 But typically, when a business person runs them, they're implemented quicker. 55 00:04:59,857.9995 --> 00:05:01,687.9985 The understanding is there. 56 00:05:01,687.9995 --> 00:05:04,737.9995 The right process mapping has been done, et cetera. 57 00:05:04,747.9995 --> 00:05:06,267.9995 So you've got the right people. 58 00:05:07,32.9995 --> 00:05:15,982.9985 Probably have suppliers in the mix, because what company has all that skill set on hand? So you have to have the right suppliers. 59 00:05:16,872.9995 --> 00:05:20,472.9995 And then through the course of it, you have to have the right governance. 60 00:05:21,322.9995 --> 00:05:44,842.9995 So the communication process, the transparency of where the project truly is, because as you know, IT projects are not a hundred percent foolproof, right? Something always happens in any kind of project, whether you're building a house, you're, you're baking a cake or whatever it is, something goes wrong and you've got to have the right transparency and communication. 61 00:05:45,347.9995 --> 00:05:51,837.9995 To understand what to do next, then obviously you could have the best tool in the world. 62 00:05:51,837.9995 --> 00:05:52,747.9995 The best project. 63 00:05:52,747.9995 --> 00:05:53,657.9995 It's going great. 64 00:05:54,47.9995 --> 00:06:01,447.9995 You have to have change management methodology and processes embedded in the project because if people aren't going to use it. 65 00:06:02,497.9995 --> 00:06:13,497.9995 What does it matter? Right? And I mentioned Excel when I was a co op, a lot of people still use Excel and you could put in the best shiny new toy technology. 66 00:06:13,827.9995 --> 00:06:15,497.9995 People are comfortable with Excel. 67 00:06:15,498.0995 --> 00:06:23,57.9995 So you've got to explain to people how their jobs going to change and give them the appropriate training to make it a true success. 68 00:06:23,657.9995 --> 00:06:24,187.9995 In the end. 69 00:06:25,657.9985 --> 00:06:26,287.9985 For sure. 70 00:06:26,297.9995 --> 00:06:27,482.8995 And I think you touched upon a lot of it. 71 00:06:27,822.9995 --> 00:06:29,282.9995 Some very key points. 72 00:06:29,282.9995 --> 00:06:31,952.9995 You know, starting with a champion, you know, has to be a business. 73 00:06:31,962.9995 --> 00:06:38,492.9995 How do they currently do the job? How can they do it better? You know, governance, such a key piece. 74 00:06:38,492.9995 --> 00:06:44,122.9985 You need to have that in place, change management, you know, I've been in technology field for so many years. 75 00:06:44,172.9985 --> 00:06:45,802.9985 That's one thing that we know. 76 00:06:46,182.9985 --> 00:06:56,82.9985 If there is no good change management in place, It doesn't matter what technology, what kind of resources or what kind of supplier you're using, it doesn't go well. 77 00:06:56,772.9985 --> 00:06:59,292.9975 The end user needs to be on board. 78 00:06:59,362.9985 --> 00:07:15,272.9985 They need to really be part of the whole implementation process in order for them to adapt and then be the voice of the new tool because they are the ones who will be actually living with it, doing it on a daily basis. 79 00:07:15,272.9985 --> 00:07:15,742.9985 So great point. 80 00:07:16,662.9985 --> 00:07:17,932.9985 And people get scared. 81 00:07:18,212.9985 --> 00:07:28,822.9985 I mean, they get really nervous when a new project's coming, right? And especially in the age of AI, people think they're going to lose their jobs and companies need to do a really good job explaining. 82 00:07:29,82.9985 --> 00:07:29,752.9985 No, no, no. 83 00:07:29,762.9985 --> 00:07:33,92.9985 So you do this today, but tomorrow we need you to do that. 84 00:07:33,122.9975 --> 00:07:36,32.9985 And actually you'll probably be more fulfilled doing. 85 00:07:36,367.9985 --> 00:07:44,647.9985 The new, but it's just that, that way of explaining and coaching them through it and not just dumping something on their lap. 86 00:07:45,742.9985 --> 00:07:46,392.9985 Absolutely. 87 00:07:46,842.9985 --> 00:07:58,292.9975 And that's the key, right? How is it helping the real users of the system that this implementation or this piece of software doesn't matter? You're doing an E. 88 00:07:58,292.9985 --> 00:07:58,422.998 R. 89 00:07:58,422.998 --> 00:07:58,592.9975 P. 90 00:07:58,592.9975 --> 00:07:59,362.9975 implementation. 91 00:07:59,362.9985 --> 00:08:04,432.9975 You do some kind of data analytics project or any other systems that you're putting in place. 92 00:08:05,472.9985 --> 00:08:08,592.9985 It is there to help the business move to the next level. 93 00:08:08,812.9985 --> 00:08:27,342.9985 How can we be more profitable? How can we make it easier for our customers to deal with us? different scenarios, right? And this and all of these are bundled together to give you the next level of the best, right? How can you do your job a better way than what you're currently doing? So totally agree with you. 94 00:08:27,702.9975 --> 00:08:32,972.9975 Now you touched upon one key fact, right? The idea of finding the right supplier. 95 00:08:33,472.9975 --> 00:08:43,752.9975 So how do you find the right supplier to support your initiatives? Can you share examples of successful IT projects? Where your supplier collaboration was very effective. 96 00:08:44,757.9965 --> 00:08:47,677.9965 Finding the right supplier is key to the equation. 97 00:08:47,797.9965 --> 00:08:53,217.9965 I've always looked for a valued, trusted business partner. 98 00:08:53,857.9965 --> 00:08:54,437.9965 And. 99 00:08:55,627.9965 --> 00:08:58,847.9965 You know, there's, there's a lot of ways to get there. 100 00:08:58,897.9965 --> 00:09:03,627.9965 And I think a lot of it is being up front in the initial RFP process. 101 00:09:03,637.9965 --> 00:09:10,7.9965 And you've got to have as much information for the supplier as possible to bid on because what you don't want is. 102 00:09:10,522.9965 --> 00:09:14,832.9965 Death by change order later because they didn't understand the project. 103 00:09:14,832.9965 --> 00:09:16,972.9965 You didn't understand the project as the business. 104 00:09:17,142.9965 --> 00:09:20,532.9955 That breaks down a relationship really, really fast. 105 00:09:21,472.9965 --> 00:09:26,22.9965 So again, more of that transparency, the collaboration. 106 00:09:26,282.9965 --> 00:09:39,562.9955 Some of the best projects I've had and I can't go into a lot of detail on them, but we implemented a tool in 18 months at one of my companies and really the success of the project was a lot. 107 00:09:39,822.9965 --> 00:09:41,32.9965 on the supplier side. 108 00:09:41,42.9965 --> 00:09:46,372.9965 We brought somebody in with a great skill set in the tool that we were building. 109 00:09:46,552.9965 --> 00:09:48,2.9965 They had a road map. 110 00:09:48,292.9965 --> 00:09:54,562.9955 They had this amazing design methodology and the right questions were asked. 111 00:09:54,562.9955 --> 00:10:02,92.9955 The right people were brought by us as the company and, you know, we got off to a great start when things did go wrong. 112 00:10:02,132.9955 --> 00:10:04,72.9965 They were very, very transparent. 113 00:10:04,82.9965 --> 00:10:06,62.9965 They said, okay, we need to get together. 114 00:10:06,382.9965 --> 00:10:07,832.9965 Let's pull everyone together. 115 00:10:07,832.9965 --> 00:10:09,652.9965 Let's get these questions answered. 116 00:10:09,962.9965 --> 00:10:11,442.9965 And they didn't hide things. 117 00:10:11,482.9965 --> 00:10:12,722.9965 We didn't hide things. 118 00:10:12,762.9965 --> 00:10:16,692.9965 It was probably the best project I've ever implemented. 119 00:10:17,482.9965 --> 00:10:18,382.9965 And that's what it takes. 120 00:10:18,512.9965 --> 00:10:23,722.9965 Again, that collaboration, transparency, and that win win from both sides. 121 00:10:25,12.9965 --> 00:10:25,752.9965 Absolutely. 122 00:10:25,762.9965 --> 00:10:36,652.9965 I think you touched upon all the things that a successful project should look like, especially from a practices point of view, the strategy point of view and the relationships standpoint. 123 00:10:36,652.9965 --> 00:10:38,702.9965 Right? All of these work together and. 124 00:10:39,367.9965 --> 00:10:44,267.9965 You know, I, I just use the example of many different projects that I've done. 125 00:10:44,267.9965 --> 00:10:49,427.9965 And, you know, especially when you're working with clients, transparency up front really helps. 126 00:10:49,807.9965 --> 00:10:55,587.9955 It sets the stage and make sure that both the client and the supplier are on the same page. 127 00:10:56,307.9965 --> 00:11:17,837.9965 And when you start off with that approach, things, like I said, things can go wrong, but you have a plan in place how to mitigate those issues, how do we get on the same page and make sure that whatever things that are an obstacle to the project are taken care of working collaboratively versus, you know, us versus them. 128 00:11:18,982.9965 --> 00:11:19,312.9965 Right. 129 00:11:19,362.9965 --> 00:11:20,2.9965 Exactly. 130 00:11:20,62.9965 --> 00:11:22,822.9965 That's the last thing you want to get into in a project. 131 00:11:22,822.9965 --> 00:11:25,277.9965 It's already complex enough, Yeah. 132 00:11:25,317.9965 --> 00:11:29,577.9965 And, like you mentioned earlier, right, that always something that comes up. 133 00:11:29,972.9965 --> 00:11:34,792.9965 You, you have the best of the intentions, but it can be a business challenge. 134 00:11:34,792.9965 --> 00:11:36,302.9965 There can be a technology challenge. 135 00:11:36,302.9965 --> 00:11:38,72.9965 There can be integration challenges. 136 00:11:38,782.9955 --> 00:11:45,622.9965 All different factors play a role into things can go in a different direction very quickly. 137 00:11:46,312.9965 --> 00:11:50,522.9955 right? Oh, we didn't know this site had this approval process in here. 138 00:11:50,522.9955 --> 00:11:52,422.9965 And oh, this one has a different one. 139 00:11:53,142.9965 --> 00:11:57,252.9965 You find things as you get the project going and you have to be agile. 140 00:11:57,522.9965 --> 00:11:58,952.9965 You have to be flexible. 141 00:11:59,232.9965 --> 00:12:00,312.9965 You can't have. 142 00:12:00,782.9965 --> 00:12:06,462.9965 You know, the last thing you want is a supplier that's like, Oh no, you know, this, this is what we were brought in for. 143 00:12:06,462.9965 --> 00:12:12,632.9955 I mean, we can talk about commercials, but you know, let's just all collaborate and get it done. 144 00:12:12,632.9965 --> 00:12:17,462.9955 That's where you need that trusted relationship because you don't want the supplier thinking, Oh, okay. 145 00:12:17,462.9965 --> 00:12:19,152.9955 They're going to ask me to do this for free. 146 00:12:19,412.9965 --> 00:12:23,532.9965 And you don't want the customer to be like, okay, they're not going to be able to do it. 147 00:12:23,692.9965 --> 00:12:25,722.8965 So you've got to have that open dialogue going. 148 00:12:26,672.9955 --> 00:12:27,272.9955 For sure. 149 00:12:27,332.9965 --> 00:12:46,152.9965 So, on a personal note, how do you stay on top of this fast changing pace of technology? What's, what's your secret sauce? I've always been a constant learner always right? I mean, and I think being a co op at 18 years old, really drove that in me. 150 00:12:46,927.9965 --> 00:12:58,247.9955 It was the time, I kind of want to date myself it was the time when computers were kind of just starting to be used and I saw people just fumbling with the mouse. 151 00:12:58,907.9965 --> 00:13:04,307.9965 I mean, think of that in today's day and age, right? I mean, back then people were fumbling with mice. 152 00:13:04,827.9955 --> 00:13:12,197.9955 I was like, oh my goodness, I never want to be in a position where, I'm not kind of at the forefront of technology. 153 00:13:12,537.9955 --> 00:13:14,7.9955 And I'm just a learner anyway. 154 00:13:14,97.9955 --> 00:13:21,67.9955 So, you know, whether it be books podcasts really from a technology standpoint, I think is what keeps me up to date. 155 00:13:21,637.9955 --> 00:13:23,487.9945 I love the podcast. 156 00:13:23,487.9945 --> 00:13:27,257.9955 It's called All in One it's for billionaires that. 157 00:13:27,857.9955 --> 00:13:36,447.9955 Actually have very different views on things, whether it be politics or technology or science, and they talk about everything under the sun. 158 00:13:36,927.9955 --> 00:13:40,337.8955 Nvidia actually has an AI podcast. 159 00:13:40,467.9955 --> 00:13:44,57.9955 It's called the AI podcast, and then there's AI today. 160 00:13:44,722.9955 --> 00:13:51,872.9955 And then being in GBS and shared services, a lot of my career, I stay on top of those things with SSO next. 161 00:13:52,182.9955 --> 00:13:57,462.9955 And they talk about technology, tons of technology within that realm as well. 162 00:13:57,722.9955 --> 00:14:02,742.9955 I read tons of articles on LinkedIn, the Wall Street Journal, and then definitely leadership books. 163 00:14:02,742.9955 --> 00:14:04,892.9955 I know that's not necessarily technology, but. 164 00:14:05,272.9955 --> 00:14:14,212.9955 When you're talking about leading people again through change, and, you know, the best way to be collaborative, I find that to be extremely helpful. 165 00:14:14,532.9955 --> 00:14:20,407.8955 Patrick Lencioni is one of my favorite authors The 5 Dysfunctions of Team, one of my favorite authors. 166 00:14:20,637.9955 --> 00:14:21,417.9955 Favorite books. 167 00:14:21,627.9955 --> 00:14:23,667.9955 And he writes very much like fiction. 168 00:14:23,707.9955 --> 00:14:25,227.9955 So it's really easy to get through. 169 00:14:25,627.9955 --> 00:14:40,287.9945 I don't know if you've ever listened to or read Jocko Wilnick's books, but he has extreme ownership and a couple others, phenomenal books, right? I mean, just kind of look at yourself in the mirror and it, it goes to project management, so extreme ownership. 170 00:14:40,307.9945 --> 00:14:45,587.9955 Am I doing everything I possibly can to be successful? Have my team be successful. 171 00:14:45,677.9955 --> 00:14:48,47.9955 So really good one for project management. 172 00:14:48,47.9955 --> 00:14:48,837.9955 Mustansir. 173 00:14:50,42.9955 --> 00:14:54,552.9955 Nice, I think you've got a whole slew of resources available at your fingertips that's good. 174 00:14:54,612.9955 --> 00:15:12,742.9955 I think like one thing that I really liked about your approach, I mean, you've seen it all, you've played different roles, It's refreshing to see someone like you in your space that you still find yourself as a student, you know, still keep on learning and be able to keep yourself ahead of the curve. 175 00:15:12,792.9965 --> 00:15:24,372.9965 And I think that's the key, right? The different roles we play depending on what you're doing your daily job, but at the same time, looking around and seeing what else is going around you. 176 00:15:25,432.9965 --> 00:15:30,102.9965 We live in the space of, and the times of Gen AI. 177 00:15:30,432.9965 --> 00:15:34,582.9965 AI being disruptive and how it will change our lives. 178 00:15:34,612.9965 --> 00:15:41,762.9965 It's already is changing, you know how do you stay ahead or at least keep up with the technology? I think is the key to your success. 179 00:15:41,802.9955 --> 00:15:45,342.9965 So that's what it seems like you you've been very much in tune with it. 180 00:15:46,182.9965 --> 00:15:46,742.9965 Absolutely. 181 00:15:46,742.9965 --> 00:15:49,922.9965 One of the coolest things I ever did was reverse mentoring. 182 00:15:50,592.9965 --> 00:16:01,402.9965 So I had someone younger in the organization mentoring me, right? And then it helps you get into their shoes and understand what drives the next generation. 183 00:16:01,412.9965 --> 00:16:05,672.9965 What tools and technology are they using? It's really fascinating. 184 00:16:05,782.9965 --> 00:16:07,952.9965 And of course I, I use my kids too. 185 00:16:08,332.9965 --> 00:16:17,992.9965 You know, I have a 19 year old and a 17 year old and just understanding: How they think, what they're looking at, what they're using, chat, what's GPT 4 all about. 186 00:16:18,302.9965 --> 00:16:20,82.9965 You know, you got to stay on top of things. 187 00:16:21,562.9965 --> 00:16:23,632.9965 Yeah, they are the best teachers. 188 00:16:23,632.9965 --> 00:16:29,102.9965 I mean you think about technology I mean this younger generation is amazing and how they are adapting and all that. 189 00:16:29,982.9965 --> 00:16:44,332.9965 Let's get into the conversation about you know, we talked about successful supplier collaborations very key, right, important but what are some of the common challenges companies face? With IT suppliers during a project. 190 00:16:45,452.9965 --> 00:17:03,32.9955 Can you share some ideas on thoughts on that? I think one of the ones I've seen is where someone's oversold their capabilities, right? You've got a supplier, maybe they did a really good job on one project and they're asked to bid on another. 191 00:17:03,557.9965 --> 00:17:13,497.9965 And as a company, and again, trying to find that trusted supplier, it's very easy to fall into, well, let's just use these guys that were successful before. 192 00:17:13,847.9965 --> 00:17:20,547.9955 You've really got to evaluate, are they going to be successful for this project? And of course they want business. 193 00:17:20,577.9955 --> 00:17:29,97.9965 Everyone wants business, but you've really got to look and say, okay, can I deliver on this project? Because if I can't. 194 00:17:29,637.9965 --> 00:17:32,817.9965 I'm actually going to ruin my reputation within the company. 195 00:17:33,267.9965 --> 00:17:40,867.9955 So just being honest and making sure again, from the company's standpoint, you're choosing the right supplier and that the suppliers. 196 00:17:42,107.9965 --> 00:17:51,467.9965 Again, understanding the project that you're trying to implement and maybe they don't understand at first and they think they can deliver on the project. 197 00:17:51,517.9955 --> 00:17:56,7.9955 So, as a supplier, I would say, make sure you ask the questions. 198 00:17:56,17.9955 --> 00:17:56,987.9965 Be curious. 199 00:17:57,587.9965 --> 00:18:02,382.9965 Why are you doing this project? What exactly are you looking for? Oh, okay. 200 00:18:02,382.9965 --> 00:18:03,402.9965 It's in this space. 201 00:18:03,402.9965 --> 00:18:03,612.9965 Okay. 202 00:18:03,622.9965 --> 00:18:05,432.9965 We don't have people in that space. 203 00:18:05,432.9965 --> 00:18:08,162.9965 Well, I can maybe bring people in to do that. 204 00:18:08,172.9965 --> 00:18:15,102.9965 You know, really understanding, that side to me, can really change the dynamic there. 205 00:18:15,832.9965 --> 00:18:19,362.9965 And then again, I'm not gonna, I'm going to keep talking about the transparency. 206 00:18:20,482.9965 --> 00:18:25,852.9965 If the supplier cannot be transparent when there is an issue, it's not going to be good.. 207 00:18:25,902.9965 --> 00:18:31,577.9965 I've always told people whether they work for me or a supplier, Bad news doesn't get better with time. 208 00:18:32,167.9965 --> 00:18:34,217.9965 You've got to bring these things forward. 209 00:18:34,217.9965 --> 00:18:36,447.9965 We've got to come up with solutions together. 210 00:18:36,477.9965 --> 00:18:37,967.9965 I don't care whose fault it is. 211 00:18:38,832.9965 --> 00:18:42,107.9965 Yeah, Like, ultimately, I want this project to be successful. 212 00:18:42,377.9965 --> 00:18:44,537.9955 So let's work together to get that done. 213 00:18:45,402.9965 --> 00:18:46,692.9965 absolutely Absolutely. 214 00:18:46,692.9965 --> 00:18:54,652.9965 I think and and that's where I my question to you is how do you mitigate those issues? Everybody wants a smooth and successful implementation. 215 00:18:54,692.9965 --> 00:18:59,512.9965 It's just Everybody thinks that's how it should go, but we all know there are challenges. 216 00:18:59,857.9965 --> 00:19:00,567.8965 Mm hmm. 217 00:19:00,622.9965 --> 00:19:13,497.9955 you maybe share some ideas, thoughts on how do you mitigate those issues or something that you may have seen in the past? So we, a lot of times, use just basic project management. 218 00:19:14,32.9955 --> 00:19:17,2.9955 Fundamentals, right? You've got your project plan. 219 00:19:17,72.9955 --> 00:19:20,662.9955 Are you on plan or not? Then you look at what can go wrong. 220 00:19:21,42.9955 --> 00:19:31,122.9955 Okay, you list out all the things that you think could go wrong and you start putting mitigating plans together on that, right? And having meetings around those things. 221 00:19:31,172.9955 --> 00:19:35,362.9955 Okay, guys, how are we doing? Are we getting the data? That's going to be a big thing here. 222 00:19:35,752.9955 --> 00:19:41,552.9955 Did we get it? Did we not? What do we need to do? And again, having the right people on the project. 223 00:19:41,602.9955 --> 00:19:53,582.9945 So do you have somebody who can go in, break down those roadblocks if things aren't getting done, building the right relationships, again, you got to have the right people who can build relationships. 224 00:19:53,982.9955 --> 00:20:00,52.9955 Project management, as you know, It's almost more about being a psychologist than anything else. 225 00:20:00,102.9955 --> 00:20:04,542.9955 I mean, you've got to bring people together that maybe don't normally work together. 226 00:20:04,722.9955 --> 00:20:06,762.9955 They have very different personalities. 227 00:20:07,82.9955 --> 00:20:11,592.9955 You've got people on the IT side that have different personalities than the project side. 228 00:20:11,652.9945 --> 00:20:18,922.9955 So you've got to make sure that you understand those factors and use project management methodology. 229 00:20:18,922.9955 --> 00:20:20,312.9955 It's there for a reason. 230 00:20:20,562.9955 --> 00:20:23,262.9955 I mean, I've seen people, they're like, Oh, we don't need a project plan. 231 00:20:23,262.9955 --> 00:20:23,382.9955 Yeah. 232 00:20:23,677.9955 --> 00:20:31,217.9955 Like what? What are you talking? How do you do a successful project without a project plan? You don't even know what's coming next. 233 00:20:31,307.9955 --> 00:20:33,357.9945 You don't even know where you are in the cycle. 234 00:20:33,357.9955 --> 00:20:40,257.9955 Are you on track? Are you not? So I think those things, honestly, like don't overlook the fundamentals. 235 00:20:41,402.9945 --> 00:20:43,112.9945 No, I think that's a great advice. 236 00:20:43,112.9945 --> 00:20:49,352.9945 I one thing I, I, I like about your approach or your thinking is a project manager being a psychologist. 237 00:20:49,532.9955 --> 00:20:56,12.9945 You know, how many times you go through these, these iterations of projects after projects, you know, being a.supplier 238 00:20:56,27.9955 --> 00:20:56,727.9955 ourselves. 239 00:20:56,727.9955 --> 00:21:11,937.9945 I mean, I, I really appreciate your thought process on that because there's so many different stakeholders in any given time and project where you may have one stakeholder on board, but you may have someone else either business, I. 240 00:21:11,937.9945 --> 00:21:12,487.9945 T. 241 00:21:13,457.9945 --> 00:21:14,847.9955 Whatever else you're working with. 242 00:21:15,167.9955 --> 00:21:16,887.9945 They may be either lost. 243 00:21:17,287.9945 --> 00:21:20,127.9955 They don't agree with your approach or there's something else that in this space. 244 00:21:20,807.9955 --> 00:21:30,97.9945 And you needs someone who can actually mitigate all those different pieces of the, Mm puzzle and bring it all, all of them together in a way they see the value. 245 00:21:30,107.9955 --> 00:21:36,597.9945 It's all about value proposition and making sure that the end product is what the customer is asking for. 246 00:21:36,647.9955 --> 00:21:48,712.9955 Can we deliver? If we can deliver, what is the game plan? How do we go about making sure that we are all on the same page? Because at the end of the day, Once it is delivered correctly, It's a win win, you know. 247 00:21:48,762.9955 --> 00:21:49,192.9955 so Hmm. 248 00:21:49,552.9955 --> 00:21:54,177.996 Do appreciate that insight into it and I know we talked about a lot of different things. 249 00:21:55,67.996 --> 00:21:58,257.995 I like to ask this one parting question. 250 00:21:58,507.994 --> 00:22:02,562.995 What is that one key takeaway? You want to leave with our listeners today. 251 00:22:05,562.995 --> 00:22:06,862.995 IT projects are very complex. 252 00:22:07,712.995 --> 00:22:10,892.995 So again, I would say the fundamentals are key. 253 00:22:11,552.995 --> 00:22:15,532.995 Understand what you're trying to accomplish. 254 00:22:15,642.995 --> 00:22:25,812.995 That is number one, understand the processes, get the right team involved, the right supplier, and set yourself up for success. 255 00:22:27,12.994 --> 00:22:28,352.995 So fundamentals. 256 00:22:28,592.994 --> 00:22:29,912.995 Use project management. 257 00:22:30,687.995 --> 00:22:32,647.995 Methodology for sure. 258 00:22:33,27.995 --> 00:22:37,767.995 I mean, it's there for a reason and have the right, the right people on the project is key. 259 00:22:37,837.995 --> 00:22:52,102.995 I know I'm doing like five different key takeaways here in Mustansir, but really again, it's just so complex and the fundamentals, the right people and, and the right methodology, key, No, thank you. 260 00:22:52,102.995 --> 00:22:53,902.995 Great advice and great takeaways. 261 00:22:53,992.995 --> 00:23:00,592.995 And I think once we have all these different pieces of the puzzle together, it's a recipe for success. 262 00:23:00,602.994 --> 00:23:07,492.995 So with that I'd like to conclude our session and I'd like to thank you for coming on on our show It was a pleasure having you. 263 00:23:08,67.995 --> 00:23:08,737.995 likewise. 264 00:23:08,757.995 --> 00:23:09,867.995 Thank you for having me. 265 00:23:11,742.994 --> 00:23:15,752.994 Thanks for listening to Tech Driven Business brought to you by Innovative Solution Partners. 266 00:23:16,352.994 --> 00:23:32,852.894 Carla shared valuable insights that can be used immediately by your IT team her main takeaway, focus on the fundamentals that include understanding your objectives, involving the right team of staff and suppliers, and stick to solid project management methodologies. 267 00:23:33,332.994 --> 00:23:34,572.994 We would love to hear from you. 268 00:23:34,812.994 --> 00:23:38,92.994 Continue the conversation by connecting with me on LinkedIn or Twitter. 269 00:23:38,672.994 --> 00:23:44,892.994 Learn more about Innovative Solution Partners and schedule a free consultation by visiting isolutionpartners. 270 00:23:44,932.994 --> 00:23:45,142.994 com. 271 00:23:45,822.993 --> 00:23:49,62.993 Never miss a podcast by subscribing to our YouTube channel. 272 00:23:49,442.993 --> 00:23:50,792.994 Information is in the show notes.
Welcome to Tech Driven Business brought to you by Innovative Solution Partners.
Carla Sarti, a seasoned executive, shares her insights that any team can use for leading successful IT projects.
From understanding business processes to the importance of transparency, teamwork, and supplier relations, Carla reveals the key ingredients for project success.
(00:30):
Welcome to Tech-Driven Business Carla.
How are you? I'm great.
Thanks for having me. 7 00:00:35,128.1 --> 00:00:36,898 Great to see you. 8 00:00:38,217.999 --> 00:00:39,857.9985 It's great to have you on our show. 9 00:00:39,857.9985 --> 00:00:47,168 And I'm glad that you took the time out to share some of your thoughts and leadership with us today, Absolutely.
so our topic is going to be Secrets to successful IT projects.
(00:53):
How does it sound to you? Amazing.
It's 1 of my passions.
I know, I know.
And I think that's going to be something that it will be very helpful to our listeners, especially in this day and age where technology is changing so fast.
There are so many different options available.
And I.
T.
Is in the middle of all of this.
Let me start with this.
(01:14):
You know, I want to set the stage.
So let's begin with this.
.001Can you share some background on how you How did you find yourself leading I. 23 00:01:24,3.001 --> 00:01:24,233.0005 T. 24 00:01:24,233.0005 --> 00:01:30,28.001 Projects you started your career in a totally different arena? Absolutely. 25 00:01:30,68.001 --> 00:01:33,838 So, yes, I have a business degree of my MBA. 26 00:01:34,248.001 --> 00:01:41,68.0005 I started in audit and very specific businesses, purchasing finance, et cetera. 27 00:01:41,308.0015 --> 00:01:45,988.0015 But technology was always something that I was very curious and passionate about. 28 00:01:46,498.0015 --> 00:02:00,393.0015 When I was a co op at TRW, the vice president of finance came to me one day and I'm going to date myself a little bit here, but we were on Lotus 1, 2, 3, and he had a disc in his hand and he said, Carla or little kid or whatever he called me. 29 00:02:00,693.0015 --> 00:02:02,243.0015 Here's a disk of Excel. 30 00:02:02,773.0015 --> 00:02:08,673.0005 I would like all of our reports moved from Lotus 1, 2, 3, put on Excel and let's review them next week. 31 00:02:08,743.0015 --> 00:02:10,863.0015 And I said, okay, let's go. 32 00:02:10,913.0015 --> 00:02:16,213.0015 And so I taught myself Excel and I really started to understand the power of technology. 33 00:02:16,223.0015 --> 00:02:18,533.0015 And that's just such a basic example. 34 00:02:18,533.0015 --> 00:02:18,923.0015 Right. 35 00:02:19,443.0015 --> 00:02:32,568.0015 So while I was still a co op, I got involved in an SAP implementation and That really opened my eyes to what technology can bring, and I've been into it ever since. 36 00:02:32,938.0015 --> 00:02:48,688.0005 So different functional groups I've been in, I've always brought best in class processes along with the technology side, because I think it is, it goes hand in hand, but I've done everything from SAP, Coupa, SharePoint, RPA, and now dabbling in AI. 37 00:02:50,162.9995 --> 00:02:50,862.9995 Absolutely. 38 00:02:50,862.9995 --> 00:02:58,127.9995 You know, it doesn't matter matter where you start? You know, even having a business degree, like you mentioned technology is always with you and it's around you. 39 00:02:58,127.9995 --> 00:03:21,117.9995 So you got to either embrace it and you got to go with the flow or you're going to fight it, right? So I, I like the approach that you mentioned that, you know, your first inital foray into this whole technology area was just, you know, just of the iceberg, right? You got into this thing and now Years later, you are much ingrained in this whole technology stack. 40 00:03:21,147.9995 --> 00:03:24,57.9995 So, let's talk about your experience. 41 00:03:24,107.9995 --> 00:03:25,717.9995 You have decades of experience. 42 00:03:25,767.9995 --> 00:04:00,157.9995 What do you see as some key factors that contribute to the success of IT projects, which is so important? So I'm going to start with the assumption that before you implement any sort of technology, You've really understood your business, right? And where are your business processes? What needs to be cleaned up? You're not just bringing in technology to bring in technology because I don't think that's ever usually successful, but so you've done that and then you've really understood again, the current processes. 43 00:04:01,2.9995 --> 00:04:11,232.9995 The gaps that you have and what is your success criteria? I think a lot of people, a lot of companies don't look at what success looks like at the very beginning. 44 00:04:11,762.9985 --> 00:04:12,862.9995 And they say, Oh, okay. 45 00:04:12,862.9995 --> 00:04:13,72.9995 Yeah. 46 00:04:13,72.9995 --> 00:04:14,352.999 We're just going to implement this. 47 00:04:14,352.999 --> 00:04:24,492.9995 We heard it's the best solution and they don't think through, what are we trying to achieve? That, that really starts dictating what a successful project looks like. 48 00:04:25,182.9995 --> 00:04:27,672.9995 Then you through the whole. 49 00:04:28,102.9995 --> 00:04:28,682.9995 Project. 50 00:04:29,242.9995 --> 00:04:36,252.9995 You obviously have to have the right team members on the project, having an executive sponsor that can break down roadblocks. 51 00:04:37,82.9995 --> 00:04:43,322.9995 I've seen projects that the best ones typically have a business person leading them. 52 00:04:44,67.9995 --> 00:04:47,777.9995 Because they understand what's trying to be accomplished. 53 00:04:47,777.9995 --> 00:04:53,767.9995 Not that IT can't lead projects and they are definitely very integral to the process. 54 00:04:53,897.9995 --> 00:04:59,847.9995 But typically, when a business person runs them, they're implemented quicker. 55 00:04:59,857.9995 --> 00:05:01,687.9985 The understanding is there. 56 00:05:01,687.9995 --> 00:05:04,737.9995 The right process mapping has been done, et cetera. 57 00:05:04,747.9995 --> 00:05:06,267.9995 So you've got the right people. 58 00:05:07,32.9995 --> 00:05:15,982.9985 Probably have suppliers in the mix, because what company has all that skill set on hand? So you have to have the right suppliers. 59 00:05:16,872.9995 --> 00:05:20,472.9995 And then through the course of it, you have to have the right governance. 60 00:05:21,322.9995 --> 00:05:44,842.9995 So the communication process, the transparency of where the project truly is, because as you know, IT projects are not a hundred percent foolproof, right? Something always happens in any kind of project, whether you're building a house, you're, you're baking a cake or whatever it is, something goes wrong and you've got to have the right transparency and communication. 61 00:05:45,347.9995 --> 00:05:51,837.9995 To understand what to do next, then obviously you could have the best tool in the world. 62 00:05:51,837.9995 --> 00:05:52,747.9995 The best project. 63 00:05:52,747.9995 --> 00:05:53,657.9995 It's going great. 64 00:05:54,47.9995 --> 00:06:01,447.9995 You have to have change management methodology and processes embedded in the project because if people aren't going to use it. 65 00:06:02,497.9995 --> 00:06:13,497.9995 What does it matter? Right? And I mentioned Excel when I was a co op, a lot of people still use Excel and you could put in the best shiny new toy technology. 66 00:06:13,827.9995 --> 00:06:15,497.9995 People are comfortable with Excel. 67 00:06:15,498.0995 --> 00:06:23,57.9995 So you've got to explain to people how their jobs going to change and give them the appropriate training to make it a true success. 68 00:06:23,657.9995 --> 00:06:24,187.9995 In the end. 69 00:06:25,657.9985 --> 00:06:26,287.9985 For sure. 70 00:06:26,297.9995 --> 00:06:27,482.8995 And I think you touched upon a lot of it. 71 00:06:27,822.9995 --> 00:06:29,282.9995 Some very key points. 72 00:06:29,282.9995 --> 00:06:31,952.9995 You know, starting with a champion, you know, has to be a business. 73 00:06:31,962.9995 --> 00:06:38,492.9995 How do they currently do the job? How can they do it better? You know, governance, such a key piece. 74 00:06:38,492.9995 --> 00:06:44,122.9985 You need to have that in place, change management, you know, I've been in technology field for so many years. 75 00:06:44,172.9985 --> 00:06:45,802.9985 That's one thing that we know. 76 00:06:46,182.9985 --> 00:06:56,82.9985 If there is no good change management in place, It doesn't matter what technology, what kind of resources or what kind of supplier you're using, it doesn't go well. 77 00:06:56,772.9985 --> 00:06:59,292.9975 The end user needs to be on board. 78 00:06:59,362.9985 --> 00:07:15,272.9985 They need to really be part of the whole implementation process in order for them to adapt and then be the voice of the new tool because they are the ones who will be actually living with it, doing it on a daily basis. 79 00:07:15,272.9985 --> 00:07:15,742.9985 So great point. 80 00:07:16,662.9985 --> 00:07:17,932.9985 And people get scared. 81 00:07:18,212.9985 --> 00:07:28,822.9985 I mean, they get really nervous when a new project's coming, right? And especially in the age of AI, people think they're going to lose their jobs and companies need to do a really good job explaining. 82 00:07:29,82.9985 --> 00:07:29,752.9985 No, no, no. 83 00:07:29,762.9985 --> 00:07:33,92.9985 So you do this today, but tomorrow we need you to do that. 84 00:07:33,122.9975 --> 00:07:36,32.9985 And actually you'll probably be more fulfilled doing. 85 00:07:36,367.9985 --> 00:07:44,647.9985 The new, but it's just that, that way of explaining and coaching them through it and not just dumping something on their lap. 86 00:07:45,742.9985 --> 00:07:46,392.9985 Absolutely. 87 00:07:46,842.9985 --> 00:07:58,292.9975 And that's the key, right? How is it helping the real users of the system that this implementation or this piece of software doesn't matter? You're doing an E. 88 00:07:58,292.9985 --> 00:07:58,422.998 R. 89 00:07:58,422.998 --> 00:07:58,592.9975 P. 90 00:07:58,592.9975 --> 00:07:59,362.9975 implementation. 91 00:07:59,362.9985 --> 00:08:04,432.9975 You do some kind of data analytics project or any other systems that you're putting in place. 92 00:08:05,472.9985 --> 00:08:08,592.9985 It is there to help the business move to the next level. 93 00:08:08,812.9985 --> 00:08:27,342.9985 How can we be more profitable? How can we make it easier for our customers to deal with us? different scenarios, right? And this and all of these are bundled together to give you the next level of the best, right? How can you do your job a better way than what you're currently doing? So totally agree with you. 94 00:08:27,702.9975 --> 00:08:32,972.9975 Now you touched upon one key fact, right? The idea of finding the right supplier. 95 00:08:33,472.9975 --> 00:08:43,752.9975 So how do you find the right supplier to support your initiatives? Can you share examples of successful IT projects? Where your supplier collaboration was very effective. 96 00:08:44,757.9965 --> 00:08:47,677.9965 Finding the right supplier is key to the equation. 97 00:08:47,797.9965 --> 00:08:53,217.9965 I've always looked for a valued, trusted business partner. 98 00:08:53,857.9965 --> 00:08:54,437.9965 And. 99 00:08:55,627.9965 --> 00:08:58,847.9965 You know, there's, there's a lot of ways to get there. 100 00:08:58,897.9965 --> 00:09:03,627.9965 And I think a lot of it is being up front in the initial RFP process. 101 00:09:03,637.9965 --> 00:09:10,7.9965 And you've got to have as much information for the supplier as possible to bid on because what you don't want is. 102 00:09:10,522.9965 --> 00:09:14,832.9965 Death by change order later because they didn't understand the project. 103 00:09:14,832.9965 --> 00:09:16,972.9965 You didn't understand the project as the business. 104 00:09:17,142.9965 --> 00:09:20,532.9955 That breaks down a relationship really, really fast. 105 00:09:21,472.9965 --> 00:09:26,22.9965 So again, more of that transparency, the collaboration. 106 00:09:26,282.9965 --> 00:09:39,562.9955 Some of the best projects I've had and I can't go into a lot of detail on them, but we implemented a tool in 18 months at one of my companies and really the success of the project was a lot. 107 00:09:39,822.9965 --> 00:09:41,32.9965 on the supplier side. 108 00:09:41,42.9965 --> 00:09:46,372.9965 We brought somebody in with a great skill set in the tool that we were building. 109 00:09:46,552.9965 --> 00:09:48,2.9965 They had a road map. 110 00:09:48,292.9965 --> 00:09:54,562.9955 They had this amazing design methodology and the right questions were asked. 111 00:09:54,562.9955 --> 00:10:02,92.9955 The right people were brought by us as the company and, you know, we got off to a great start when things did go wrong. 112 00:10:02,132.9955 --> 00:10:04,72.9965 They were very, very transparent. 113 00:10:04,82.9965 --> 00:10:06,62.9965 They said, okay, we need to get together. 114 00:10:06,382.9965 --> 00:10:07,832.9965 Let's pull everyone together. 115 00:10:07,832.9965 --> 00:10:09,652.9965 Let's get these questions answered. 116 00:10:09,962.9965 --> 00:10:11,442.9965 And they didn't hide things. 117 00:10:11,482.9965 --> 00:10:12,722.9965 We didn't hide things. 118 00:10:12,762.9965 --> 00:10:16,692.9965 It was probably the best project I've ever implemented. 119 00:10:17,482.9965 --> 00:10:18,382.9965 And that's what it takes. 120 00:10:18,512.9965 --> 00:10:23,722.9965 Again, that collaboration, transparency, and that win win from both sides. 121 00:10:25,12.9965 --> 00:10:25,752.9965 Absolutely. 122 00:10:25,762.9965 --> 00:10:36,652.9965 I think you touched upon all the things that a successful project should look like, especially from a practices point of view, the strategy point of view and the relationships standpoint. 123 00:10:36,652.9965 --> 00:10:38,702.9965 Right? All of these work together and. 124 00:10:39,367.9965 --> 00:10:44,267.9965 You know, I, I just use the example of many different projects that I've done. 125 00:10:44,267.9965 --> 00:10:49,427.9965 And, you know, especially when you're working with clients, transparency up front really helps. 126 00:10:49,807.9965 --> 00:10:55,587.9955 It sets the stage and make sure that both the client and the supplier are on the same page. 127 00:10:56,307.9965 --> 00:11:17,837.9965 And when you start off with that approach, things, like I said, things can go wrong, but you have a plan in place how to mitigate those issues, how do we get on the same page and make sure that whatever things that are an obstacle to the project are taken care of working collaboratively versus, you know, us versus them. 128 00:11:18,982.9965 --> 00:11:19,312.9965 Right. 129 00:11:19,362.9965 --> 00:11:20,2.9965 Exactly. 130 00:11:20,62.9965 --> 00:11:22,822.9965 That's the last thing you want to get into in a project. 131 00:11:22,822.9965 --> 00:11:25,277.9965 It's already complex enough, Yeah. 132 00:11:25,317.9965 --> 00:11:29,577.9965 And, like you mentioned earlier, right, that always something that comes up. 133 00:11:29,972.9965 --> 00:11:34,792.9965 You, you have the best of the intentions, but it can be a business challenge. 134 00:11:34,792.9965 --> 00:11:36,302.9965 There can be a technology challenge. 135 00:11:36,302.9965 --> 00:11:38,72.9965 There can be integration challenges. 136 00:11:38,782.9955 --> 00:11:45,622.9965 All different factors play a role into things can go in a different direction very quickly. 137 00:11:46,312.9965 --> 00:11:50,522.9955 right? Oh, we didn't know this site had this approval process in here. 138 00:11:50,522.9955 --> 00:11:52,422.9965 And oh, this one has a different one. 139 00:11:53,142.9965 --> 00:11:57,252.9965 You find things as you get the project going and you have to be agile. 140 00:11:57,522.9965 --> 00:11:58,952.9965 You have to be flexible. 141 00:11:59,232.9965 --> 00:12:00,312.9965 You can't have. 142 00:12:00,782.9965 --> 00:12:06,462.9965 You know, the last thing you want is a supplier that's like, Oh no, you know, this, this is what we were brought in for. 143 00:12:06,462.9965 --> 00:12:12,632.9955 I mean, we can talk about commercials, but you know, let's just all collaborate and get it done. 144 00:12:12,632.9965 --> 00:12:17,462.9955 That's where you need that trusted relationship because you don't want the supplier thinking, Oh, okay. 145 00:12:17,462.9965 --> 00:12:19,152.9955 They're going to ask me to do this for free. 146 00:12:19,412.9965 --> 00:12:23,532.9965 And you don't want the customer to be like, okay, they're not going to be able to do it. 147 00:12:23,692.9965 --> 00:12:25,722.8965 So you've got to have that open dialogue going. 148 00:12:26,672.9955 --> 00:12:27,272.9955 For sure. 149 00:12:27,332.9965 --> 00:12:46,152.9965 So, on a personal note, how do you stay on top of this fast changing pace of technology? What's, what's your secret sauce? I've always been a constant learner always right? I mean, and I think being a co op at 18 years old, really drove that in me. 150 00:12:46,927.9965 --> 00:12:58,247.9955 It was the time, I kind of want to date myself it was the time when computers were kind of just starting to be used and I saw people just fumbling with the mouse. 151 00:12:58,907.9965 --> 00:13:04,307.9965 I mean, think of that in today's day and age, right? I mean, back then people were fumbling with mice. 152 00:13:04,827.9955 --> 00:13:12,197.9955 I was like, oh my goodness, I never want to be in a position where, I'm not kind of at the forefront of technology. 153 00:13:12,537.9955 --> 00:13:14,7.9955 And I'm just a learner anyway. 154 00:13:14,97.9955 --> 00:13:21,67.9955 So, you know, whether it be books podcasts really from a technology standpoint, I think is what keeps me up to date. 155 00:13:21,637.9955 --> 00:13:23,487.9945 I love the podcast. 156 00:13:23,487.9945 --> 00:13:27,257.9955 It's called All in One it's for billionaires that. 157 00:13:27,857.9955 --> 00:13:36,447.9955 Actually have very different views on things, whether it be politics or technology or science, and they talk about everything under the sun. 158 00:13:36,927.9955 --> 00:13:40,337.8955 Nvidia actually has an AI podcast. 159 00:13:40,467.9955 --> 00:13:44,57.9955 It's called the AI podcast, and then there's AI today. 160 00:13:44,722.9955 --> 00:13:51,872.9955 And then being in GBS and shared services, a lot of my career, I stay on top of those things with SSO next. 161 00:13:52,182.9955 --> 00:13:57,462.9955 And they talk about technology, tons of technology within that realm as well. 162 00:13:57,722.9955 --> 00:14:02,742.9955 I read tons of articles on LinkedIn, the Wall Street Journal, and then definitely leadership books. 163 00:14:02,742.9955 --> 00:14:04,892.9955 I know that's not necessarily technology, but. 164 00:14:05,272.9955 --> 00:14:14,212.9955 When you're talking about leading people again through change, and, you know, the best way to be collaborative, I find that to be extremely helpful. 165 00:14:14,532.9955 --> 00:14:20,407.8955 Patrick Lencioni is one of my favorite authors The 5 Dysfunctions of Team, one of my favorite authors. 166 00:14:20,637.9955 --> 00:14:21,417.9955 Favorite books. 167 00:14:21,627.9955 --> 00:14:23,667.9955 And he writes very much like fiction. 168 00:14:23,707.9955 --> 00:14:25,227.9955 So it's really easy to get through. 169 00:14:25,627.9955 --> 00:14:40,287.9945 I don't know if you've ever listened to or read Jocko Wilnick's books, but he has extreme ownership and a couple others, phenomenal books, right? I mean, just kind of look at yourself in the mirror and it, it goes to project management, so extreme ownership. 170 00:14:40,307.9945 --> 00:14:45,587.9955 Am I doing everything I possibly can to be successful? Have my team be successful. 171 00:14:45,677.9955 --> 00:14:48,47.9955 So really good one for project management. 172 00:14:48,47.9955 --> 00:14:48,837.9955 Mustansir. 173 00:14:50,42.9955 --> 00:14:54,552.9955 Nice, I think you've got a whole slew of resources available at your fingertips that's good. 174 00:14:54,612.9955 --> 00:15:12,742.9955 I think like one thing that I really liked about your approach, I mean, you've seen it all, you've played different roles, It's refreshing to see someone like you in your space that you still find yourself as a student, you know, still keep on learning and be able to keep yourself ahead of the curve. 175 00:15:12,792.9965 --> 00:15:24,372.9965 And I think that's the key, right? The different roles we play depending on what you're doing your daily job, but at the same time, looking around and seeing what else is going around you. 176 00:15:25,432.9965 --> 00:15:30,102.9965 We live in the space of, and the times of Gen AI. 177 00:15:30,432.9965 --> 00:15:34,582.9965 AI being disruptive and how it will change our lives. 178 00:15:34,612.9965 --> 00:15:41,762.9965 It's already is changing, you know how do you stay ahead or at least keep up with the technology? I think is the key to your success. 179 00:15:41,802.9955 --> 00:15:45,342.9965 So that's what it seems like you you've been very much in tune with it. 180 00:15:46,182.9965 --> 00:15:46,742.9965 Absolutely. 181 00:15:46,742.9965 --> 00:15:49,922.9965 One of the coolest things I ever did was reverse mentoring. 182 00:15:50,592.9965 --> 00:16:01,402.9965 So I had someone younger in the organization mentoring me, right? And then it helps you get into their shoes and understand what drives the next generation. 183 00:16:01,412.9965 --> 00:16:05,672.9965 What tools and technology are they using? It's really fascinating. 184 00:16:05,782.9965 --> 00:16:07,952.9965 And of course I, I use my kids too. 185 00:16:08,332.9965 --> 00:16:17,992.9965 You know, I have a 19 year old and a 17 year old and just understanding: How they think, what they're looking at, what they're using, chat, what's GPT 4 all about. 186 00:16:18,302.9965 --> 00:16:20,82.9965 You know, you got to stay on top of things. 187 00:16:21,562.9965 --> 00:16:23,632.9965 Yeah, they are the best teachers. 188 00:16:23,632.9965 --> 00:16:29,102.9965 I mean you think about technology I mean this younger generation is amazing and how they are adapting and all that. 189 00:16:29,982.9965 --> 00:16:44,332.9965 Let's get into the conversation about you know, we talked about successful supplier collaborations very key, right, important but what are some of the common challenges companies face? With IT suppliers during a project. 190 00:16:45,452.9965 --> 00:17:03,32.9955 Can you share some ideas on thoughts on that? I think one of the ones I've seen is where someone's oversold their capabilities, right? You've got a supplier, maybe they did a really good job on one project and they're asked to bid on another. 191 00:17:03,557.9965 --> 00:17:13,497.9965 And as a company, and again, trying to find that trusted supplier, it's very easy to fall into, well, let's just use these guys that were successful before. 192 00:17:13,847.9965 --> 00:17:20,547.9955 You've really got to evaluate, are they going to be successful for this project? And of course they want business. 193 00:17:20,577.9955 --> 00:17:29,97.9965 Everyone wants business, but you've really got to look and say, okay, can I deliver on this project? Because if I can't. 194 00:17:29,637.9965 --> 00:17:32,817.9965 I'm actually going to ruin my reputation within the company. 195 00:17:33,267.9965 --> 00:17:40,867.9955 So just being honest and making sure again, from the company's standpoint, you're choosing the right supplier and that the suppliers. 196 00:17:42,107.9965 --> 00:17:51,467.9965 Again, understanding the project that you're trying to implement and maybe they don't understand at first and they think they can deliver on the project. 197 00:17:51,517.9955 --> 00:17:56,7.9955 So, as a supplier, I would say, make sure you ask the questions. 198 00:17:56,17.9955 --> 00:17:56,987.9965 Be curious. 199 00:17:57,587.9965 --> 00:18:02,382.9965 Why are you doing this project? What exactly are you looking for? Oh, okay. 200 00:18:02,382.9965 --> 00:18:03,402.9965 It's in this space. 201 00:18:03,402.9965 --> 00:18:03,612.9965 Okay. 202 00:18:03,622.9965 --> 00:18:05,432.9965 We don't have people in that space. 203 00:18:05,432.9965 --> 00:18:08,162.9965 Well, I can maybe bring people in to do that. 204 00:18:08,172.9965 --> 00:18:15,102.9965 You know, really understanding, that side to me, can really change the dynamic there. 205 00:18:15,832.9965 --> 00:18:19,362.9965 And then again, I'm not gonna, I'm going to keep talking about the transparency. 206 00:18:20,482.9965 --> 00:18:25,852.9965 If the supplier cannot be transparent when there is an issue, it's not going to be good.. 207 00:18:25,902.9965 --> 00:18:31,577.9965 I've always told people whether they work for me or a supplier, Bad news doesn't get better with time. 208 00:18:32,167.9965 --> 00:18:34,217.9965 You've got to bring these things forward. 209 00:18:34,217.9965 --> 00:18:36,447.9965 We've got to come up with solutions together. 210 00:18:36,477.9965 --> 00:18:37,967.9965 I don't care whose fault it is. 211 00:18:38,832.9965 --> 00:18:42,107.9965 Yeah, Like, ultimately, I want this project to be successful. 212 00:18:42,377.9965 --> 00:18:44,537.9955 So let's work together to get that done. 213 00:18:45,402.9965 --> 00:18:46,692.9965 absolutely Absolutely. 214 00:18:46,692.9965 --> 00:18:54,652.9965 I think and and that's where I my question to you is how do you mitigate those issues? Everybody wants a smooth and successful implementation. 215 00:18:54,692.9965 --> 00:18:59,512.9965 It's just Everybody thinks that's how it should go, but we all know there are challenges. 216 00:18:59,857.9965 --> 00:19:00,567.8965 Mm hmm. 217 00:19:00,622.9965 --> 00:19:13,497.9955 you maybe share some ideas, thoughts on how do you mitigate those issues or something that you may have seen in the past? So we, a lot of times, use just basic project management. 218 00:19:14,32.9955 --> 00:19:17,2.9955 Fundamentals, right? You've got your project plan. 219 00:19:17,72.9955 --> 00:19:20,662.9955 Are you on plan or not? Then you look at what can go wrong. 220 00:19:21,42.9955 --> 00:19:31,122.9955 Okay, you list out all the things that you think could go wrong and you start putting mitigating plans together on that, right? And having meetings around those things. 221 00:19:31,172.9955 --> 00:19:35,362.9955 Okay, guys, how are we doing? Are we getting the data? That's going to be a big thing here. 222 00:19:35,752.9955 --> 00:19:41,552.9955 Did we get it? Did we not? What do we need to do? And again, having the right people on the project. 223 00:19:41,602.9955 --> 00:19:53,582.9945 So do you have somebody who can go in, break down those roadblocks if things aren't getting done, building the right relationships, again, you got to have the right people who can build relationships. 224 00:19:53,982.9955 --> 00:20:00,52.9955 Project management, as you know, It's almost more about being a psychologist than anything else. 225 00:20:00,102.9955 --> 00:20:04,542.9955 I mean, you've got to bring people together that maybe don't normally work together. 226 00:20:04,722.9955 --> 00:20:06,762.9955 They have very different personalities. 227 00:20:07,82.9955 --> 00:20:11,592.9955 You've got people on the IT side that have different personalities than the project side. 228 00:20:11,652.9945 --> 00:20:18,922.9955 So you've got to make sure that you understand those factors and use project management methodology. 229 00:20:18,922.9955 --> 00:20:20,312.9955 It's there for a reason. 230 00:20:20,562.9955 --> 00:20:23,262.9955 I mean, I've seen people, they're like, Oh, we don't need a project plan. 231 00:20:23,262.9955 --> 00:20:23,382.9955 Yeah. 232 00:20:23,677.9955 --> 00:20:31,217.9955 Like what? What are you talking? How do you do a successful project without a project plan? You don't even know what's coming next. 233 00:20:31,307.9955 --> 00:20:33,357.9945 You don't even know where you are in the cycle. 234 00:20:33,357.9955 --> 00:20:40,257.9955 Are you on track? Are you not? So I think those things, honestly, like don't overlook the fundamentals. 235 00:20:41,402.9945 --> 00:20:43,112.9945 No, I think that's a great advice. 236 00:20:43,112.9945 --> 00:20:49,352.9945 I one thing I, I, I like about your approach or your thinking is a project manager being a psychologist. 237 00:20:49,532.9955 --> 00:20:56,12.9945 You know, how many times you go through these, these iterations of projects after projects, you know, being a.supplier 238 00:20:56,27.9955 --> 00:20:56,727.9955 ourselves. 239 00:20:56,727.9955 --> 00:21:11,937.9945 I mean, I, I really appreciate your thought process on that because there's so many different stakeholders in any given time and project where you may have one stakeholder on board, but you may have someone else either business, I. 240 00:21:11,937.9945 --> 00:21:12,487.9945 T. 241 00:21:13,457.9945 --> 00:21:14,847.9955 Whatever else you're working with. 242 00:21:15,167.9955 --> 00:21:16,887.9945 They may be either lost. 243 00:21:17,287.9945 --> 00:21:20,127.9955 They don't agree with your approach or there's something else that in this space. 244 00:21:20,807.9955 --> 00:21:30,97.9945 And you needs someone who can actually mitigate all those different pieces of the, Mm puzzle and bring it all, all of them together in a way they see the value. 245 00:21:30,107.9955 --> 00:21:36,597.9945 It's all about value proposition and making sure that the end product is what the customer is asking for. 246 00:21:36,647.9955 --> 00:21:48,712.9955 Can we deliver? If we can deliver, what is the game plan? How do we go about making sure that we are all on the same page? Because at the end of the day, Once it is delivered correctly, It's a win win, you know. 247 00:21:48,762.9955 --> 00:21:49,192.9955 so Hmm. 248 00:21:49,552.9955 --> 00:21:54,177.996 Do appreciate that insight into it and I know we talked about a lot of different things. 249 00:21:55,67.996 --> 00:21:58,257.995 I like to ask this one parting question. 250 00:21:58,507.994 --> 00:22:02,562.995 What is that one key takeaway? You want to leave with our listeners today. 251 00:22:05,562.995 --> 00:22:06,862.995 IT projects are very complex. 252 00:22:07,712.995 --> 00:22:10,892.995 So again, I would say the fundamentals are key. 253 00:22:11,552.995 --> 00:22:15,532.995 Understand what you're trying to accomplish. 254 00:22:15,642.995 --> 00:22:25,812.995 That is number one, understand the processes, get the right team involved, the right supplier, and set yourself up for success. 255 00:22:27,12.994 --> 00:22:28,352.995 So fundamentals. 256 00:22:28,592.994 --> 00:22:29,912.995 Use project management. 257 00:22:30,687.995 --> 00:22:32,647.995 Methodology for sure. 258 00:22:33,27.995 --> 00:22:37,767.995 I mean, it's there for a reason and have the right, the right people on the project is key. 259 00:22:37,837.995 --> 00:22:52,102.995 I know I'm doing like five different key takeaways here in Mustansir, but really again, it's just so complex and the fundamentals, the right people and, and the right methodology, key, No, thank you. 260 00:22:52,102.995 --> 00:22:53,902.995 Great advice and great takeaways. 261 00:22:53,992.995 --> 00:23:00,592.995 And I think once we have all these different pieces of the puzzle together, it's a recipe for success. 262 00:23:00,602.994 --> 00:23:07,492.995 So with that I'd like to conclude our session and I'd like to thank you for coming on on our show It was a pleasure having you. 263 00:23:08,67.995 --> 00:23:08,737.995 likewise. 264 00:23:08,757.995 --> 00:23:09,867.995 Thank you for having me. 265 00:23:11,742.994 --> 00:23:15,752.994 Thanks for listening to Tech Driven Business brought to you by Innovative Solution Partners. 266 00:23:16,352.994 --> 00:23:32,852.894 Carla shared valuable insights that can be used immediately by your IT team her main takeaway, focus on the fundamentals that include understanding your objectives, involving the right team of staff and suppliers, and stick to solid project management methodologies. 267 00:23:33,332.994 --> 00:23:34,572.994 We would love to hear from you. 268 00:23:34,812.994 --> 00:23:38,92.994 Continue the conversation by connecting with me on LinkedIn or Twitter. 269 00:23:38,672.994 --> 00:23:44,892.994 Learn more about Innovative Solution Partners and schedule a free consultation by visiting isolutionpartners. 270 00:23:44,932.994 --> 00:23:45,142.994 com. 271 00:23:45,822.993 --> 00:23:49,62.993 Never miss a podcast by subscribing to our YouTube channel. 272 00:23:49,442.993 --> 00:23:50,792.994 Information is in the show notes.
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