In the case of Expositions’ codes, IT delivered a business module requiring new finance codes.  It was up to Expositions to then take action – the act of “filing” in this case was the act of creating the codes, coordinating their approval with finance, and then inputting and administering the codes – these were all Business requirements.

How many IT departments are producing reports from end-user software that should be produced by someone in the business element?  How many IT departments are orienting incoming hires for entrenched business software – the specific use of which is better explained by someone that is in the business department making the hire?  How many IT departments are breaking out, coding and tracking mobile connectivity charges for business?  Lots.  Aren’t those an administrative duty better performed by someone in Finance or the actual departments? 

In other words, look for situations where “filing cabinets” have been delivered, but where the duty of “filing” is not being effectively picked up out in the business arena.  Making effective use of technology is a profit-enhancing lever, and the user community needs to “file” effectively.  Do what is necessary: deliver training, place the expectation, and let Business set up and run their “filing cabinets.”  This frees IT to fulfill its obligations in other rapidly expanding arenas – Security, to name one.  Content Management to name another.  Planning and fulfillment on future, accelerating, business and technical requirements to name more. 

Next, let’s look at one additional example on the Business side of the equation before we look at some IT challenges.