The myths and misconceptions of IT operating model design can hinder progress and lead to failure when attempting to transform your IT organization. Understanding these IT operating model myths and avoiding the associated pitfalls is critical to ensuring that you can design an effective and robust operating model that delivers long-term value. Overcome these seven myths, and you’ll be well on your way to transformation success:

  • Myth 1: Organization charts and operating models are the same things. Reality: An operating model is not an org chart. It is how an organization operates to deliver value, encompassing the organization’s customers, value, capabilities, structure, governance, and leadership to achieve its strategic goals.
  • Myth 2: A successful design requires only one effort. Reality: Operating model design is an ongoing, iterative process and not a one-time effort.
  • Myth 3: Cultural change will happen organically as you move to a new model. Reality: Cultural change is a complex and challenging process that requires time, effort, and sustained commitment from all members of the IT organization.
  • Myth 4: Agile means that you no longer need any alignment mechanisms. Reality: While in many cases agile promotes self-organizing operating units and decentralized decision-making, alignment mechanisms are still necessary to ensure that operating units work toward the same goals and priorities.
  • Myth 5: IT knows best and does not need to involve other functions. Reality: IT plays a critical role in an organization — however, some problems can only be solved with input or involvement from other functions. Collaboration between IT and other departments is necessary to ensure IT addresses the business’s needs and enables it to achieve its objectives.
  • Myth 6: Change is a one-time effort. Reality: Change is a continuous process to improve value delivery that requires ongoing effort and adjustment without, necessarily, a complete redesign. IT organizations must keep adapting to evolving challenges, technologies, and business demand to remain effective.
  • Myth 7: Standardization stifles innovation and creativity. Reality: Standardization provides a clear framework and guidelines for the organization, which can create a more stable environment that encourages experimentation and risk-taking.

To learn more about the top myths of IT operating model design and get some guidance on correct action read this report, Avoid These Seven Myths To Deliver A Successful IT Operating Model Design. And if you want a further perspective, Forrester clients can feel free to schedule an inquiry or guidance session.