Strategic IT Review for an NGO Operating World-Wide
The Situation
A global non-governmental organisation (NGO) operating in over 20 countries faced significant challenges with its IT infrastructure. An excessive focus on day-to-day operations had resulted in technology failing to support employees and volunteers effectively. Technical debt had accumulated, and there was a disconnect between IT and internal stakeholders. As a result, the NGO’s board called for a comprehensive IT review to assess the current state and establish a future roadmap that aligned with organisational objectives.
The Task
The NGO required a strategic IT review to evaluate its current IT landscape and develop a clear, actionable roadmap for improvement. The objective was to transition IT from a reactive, break/fix function to a structured, data-driven and communications-focused operation. Key priorities included governance, strategy development, stakeholder engagement, and securing funding for necessary improvements.
The Action / Approach
Conducted a structured IT review under the partner’s brand. Over 30 days in 2022, I:
- Gathered information through documentation review, stakeholder questionnaires, and remote meetings with key personnel across multiple locations.
- Assessed existing IT infrastructure, technical debt, governance structures, and strategic alignment with organisational goals.
- Delivered a detailed report outlining findings and recommendations, including:
- Establishing an IT Steering Group to improve governance and engagement.
- Implementing IT governance frameworks to ensure accountability and alignment with strategic objectives.
- Developing a comprehensive IT strategy focused on data and communications.
- Identifying and addressing technical debt to improve operational efficiency.
- Exploring funding opportunities, including grants and awards, to support the IT transformation.
The Result
Following internal discussions and peer review, the NGO’s board approved and adopted the recommendations. As a result:
- An IT Steering Committee was established, bringing together stakeholders from across the 20+ countries of operation.
- Clear governance structures and KPIs were introduced to ensure IT aligned with the NGO’s strategic direction.
- The organisation moved towards a more proactive IT function, with a focus on data-driven decision-making and improved communication.
This transformation positioned IT as a strategic enabler, ensuring it effectively supported the NGO’s mission and long-term objectives.
Focus In On: Responsible for Digital Business Transformation
New Areas of Value:
Digital transformation that drives, moves and resets the organisation’s vision
Improvements around:
Budget availability affected by external change drivers and uncertain resource estimates
Lack of availability of the right people at the right time across both business and technology areas
Lack of transformation, change and agility mindset in leadership
Cynicism, lack of buy-in and resistance to change
Lack of exec sponsorship and ownership
Cybersecurity and data protection policies and procedures stifle transformation
