04 December 2023 - CISG-PCMG23 Reflections - Gordon Nicholl
The CISG-PCMG23 was billed as out with the old and in with the new.
Digital Transformation projects are not new, and the introduction of large information systems has had a dismal track record over the years, particularly in the public sector where many projects have hit the headlines having cost more than planned and failed to deliver the anticipated benefits.
This was a chance to hear from institutions that have tackled the challenge in various and potentially innovative ways.
As a newcomer to the Education sector, it was also likely to be an occasion to become familiar with the language, terminology and culture of information systems associated with University Institutions.
I also work remotely so being able to spend time with colleagues at an event was a rare opportunity.
My overall impression was that the conference involved a cross section of experience however it was apparent that a majority of those present were senior staff and therefore decision makers. Not a problem but it ensured that the focus was largely high level and outcome driven and this was also reinforced by aligning Corporate Systems and Project Management groups.
In my own experience I have been fortunate to help initiate and drive forward ideas and projects however my more technical role means involvement at different levels of the process. I do think that the conference has fired up an enthusiasm for change - don't tell the management!
As the sessions progressed, I had the view that the various contributors were often sharing a similar experience and offering 4/6/8 pillars to successful programme delivery. This wasn't surprising and nor is it a put down. It was interesting to see where emphasis was placed by different institutions. A combination of staff experience, selection of partners and the prevailing systems, processes and culture of an organisation have a direct impact on the formula for a successful Digital Transformation project.
Every university wants to be different - they have their individual offering to attract students. For this reason, it is not very likely that the same method of implementation would be found across the sector as those levers of control will have different settings. It would be interesting to try and compare like for like in this regard!
A key thought for me was the phrase 'learning lessons'. This encapsulates the idea that change is cyclical - it repeats - it continues. We understand nowadays that change is inevitable, and we must remain in a state of continuous improvement and look ahead to the future. Learning equally from good outcomes AND mistakes energises the next iteration and challenges us to do better. Prepare for the future...
I like the idea that it is not necessary to do the same again but to be bold and experiment and better understand where we are going.
I did not know anything about UCISA and appreciate how it represents universities in their dealings with suppliers. It is good to have a strong advocate and a body that can communicate and argue on behalf of everyone.
Having taken the plunge at UCISA, I would suggest taking in as much as you can but taking care to choose carefully what you want to hear. It is no bad thing to have some expectation about what you will learn so be critical in your judgement and be prepared to ask questions.
It was a worthwhile experience for me and perhaps one day I will be back.
