Implement Phase Strategies Table 20.1 Lists Four Strategies

Implement Phase Strategies Table 20.1 lists four strategies for implementing projects

Throughout this course, many discussion opportunities come up where you need to respond to other people's opinions and comments. After you have completed your reading, respond to your Discussion topic in the Discussion Board. Then read the responses of your fellow students and comment on their postings. Implement Phase Strategies Table 20.1 lists four strategies for implementing projects. As with other strategies, each approach may work or fail depending on the specific situation.

For this Discussion, select one of the four strategies. Then, using the Library or the Internet, find an example of a real-world implementation that used this strategy. After you describe the example, analyze why you think they went with the strategy they selected and provide your assessment of whether they made an effective choice.

Paper For Above instruction

In project management, the implementation phase is critical for the successful realization of project objectives. Various strategies can be employed during this phase, each suited to different project environments and goals. Table 20.1 in the course material delineates four primary strategies for implementation: Direct, Phased, Pilot, and Parallel. In this paper, I will focus on the 'Parallel' implementation strategy and analyze a real-world example of its use.

The 'Parallel' strategy involves running both the new system and the old system simultaneously for a period until the new system proves to be stable and effective. This approach minimizes risk because if issues arise with the new system, the old system remains available as a backup, ensuring business continuity. A notable example of the parallel strategy in practice is the implementation of a new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system by a large manufacturing firm.

The firm in question aimed to upgrade its outdated ERP system to improve operational efficiency. The decision to employ a parallel approach was driven by the critical nature of the ERP system, which manages production, supply chain, and financial transactions indispensable to daily operations. Implementing the new system in parallel allowed the firm to continue its operations seamlessly while simultaneously testing and evaluating the new system’s performance without risking complete operational shutdowns.

The company allocated a three-month overlap period during which both systems operated concurrently. During this time, extensive testing, staff training, and data migration took place. The management believed that the parallel approach would mitigate the risks associated with a sudden switch-over and ensure that any unforeseen issues would not disrupt ongoing production or financial reporting. Additionally, it allowed the IT team to troubleshoot and resolve bugs while the old system still functioned as a safety net.

The decision to choose the parallel strategy was primarily based on the high-risk environment and the criticality of the business processes involved. The company prioritized risk mitigation over time efficiency, recognizing that a failure or system downtime could result in substantial financial losses and damage to reputation. The parallel approach provided the organization with a safety cushion, reducing the likelihood of catastrophic failure and allowing a smoother transition.

From my perspective, the company made a judicious choice by adopting the parallel strategy. Although it extended the project timeline and increased costs due to duplicated efforts, the benefits of heightened security and operational continuity outweigh these drawbacks. The strategy suited the organization’s needs because it minimized risk and provided ample opportunity for troubleshooting and staff adaptation. In the context of complex and high-stakes systems, such as ERP, parallel implementation often proves to be the most prudent approach, even if it appears less efficient.

However, it is essential to recognize the potential downsides of the parallel approach, including increased resource consumption and the complexity of maintaining two systems simultaneously. Organizations must weigh these considerations carefully. Proper planning, clear communication, and rigorous testing are crucial to the success of this implementation strategy. When executed effectively, the parallel approach can significantly reduce the risks associated with system transitions and ensure a smoother, more secure implementation process.

References

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