The goal of an IT modernization project is to provide better and faster information to all aspects of the enterprise, while preserving the business rules that provide a strategic benefit to the organization and a competitive advantage in the marketplace. To this end, a well-planned, well-managed modernization project can deliver tremendous benefits to an organization; cleaner code that’s easier to enhance and maintain, lower costs and improved overall performance. On the other hand, if it’s not planned correctly, the project is almost sure to end in a costly disaster. But here’s a case where the most basic advice is still the most valuable: One of the keys to success in any IT modernization project is the planning.

The importance of the planning effort cannot be overstated. An Architectural Assessment and Planning Study is the most critical step to insure a successful modernization project. Architectural Assessment and Planning Study development requires a thorough examination of all activities that must occur prior to, during, and subsequent to modernization including the following:

• Key project objectives and drivers
• Scope definition
• Project goals
• IT audit of current environment
• Research on new technologies
• Project approach definition
• Proof of Concept / Pilot Project definition

For example, the identification of the drivers of the modernization is essential to defining and controlling the scope of the effort. Key business drivers can be derived and ROI can be calculated by answering the following questions:

• Are improvements required in our time to market reaction time?
• What do my external customers expect?
• What do my suppliers need to be more efficient?
• What do my internal users need to be more productive?
• What business processes can be improved or eliminated?

Another example is the establishment of clear objectives with defined benefits:

Technological - Rapid Application Development, prototyping

Hardware – Open systems, lower maintenance costs

Communications – Web enablement, infrastructure enhancements

Process Improvement – Faster, more efficient order entry

Customer Service – reduction in returns or warranty claims

Improved inventory turns – lower inventory costs

What follows here is a list of steps that should be part of any modernization planning effort. They can’t guarantee success, but they can help reduce the chances of a costly failure.

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