SDCExec.com |

By Gary Chervitz, CPA

The concept of promoting a collaborative workforce is not new. As illustrated by Henry Ford's quote, business leaders have known for some time that bringing everyone together in pursuit of a common goal delivers success. The promise of a more collaborative business environment is a more efficient and effective workforce. Technology plays a crucial role by dictating the framework within which the organization deploys its collaborative processes.

Businesses rely on information systems as the digital backbone of their organization, and technology that encourages workers to share ideas and communicate directly with one another can help unify the company. However, few solutions offer a consolidated view of the workplace in addition to providing the platform to unify previously disparate processes and individuals. Traditional communication tools like e-mail, telephone and Web conferencing provide a satisfactory platform for workers to exchange information, but they cannot be relied upon to house critical business intelligence because they are not integrated with the core business system. Despite their utility, these tools perpetuate intelligence silos that keep the organization disconnected.

With the specter of an unstable economy casting a shadow over an already competitive business environment, it is more important than ever for organizations to leverage every available resource at their disposal. Companies are advised to deploy a business strategy that unifies all employees, departments, customers and supply chain partners. The ideal software solution should wholly support this initiative and provide the foundation for a more successful and efficient company that works together more effectively throughout the organization and the supply chain.

Building a Collaborative Infrastructure

Building a more collaborative organization is not as simple as buying new software. In fact, it comes with very real challenges. By considering the following, companies can begin to develop a collaboration strategy that appropriately addresses the primary aspects of the transition — people and technology.

• Corporate Culture and Behavior Must Reflect Collaborative Principles

Before implementing new technology, ensure that the internal attitudes of key stakeholders support collaboration goals. Indicate that the company's health is directly tied to the strong relationships that are fostered by effective communication with all stakeholders at all times. Regardless of any software solution's collaborative capabilities, intelligence silos will not completely break down unless all stakeholders buy into the value of working together and sharing information. Assign managers and staff as champions of collaborative processes. This will encourage widespread buy-in and provide a platform to demonstrate how a more collaborative community can benefit the organization.

When the time comes to search for software, look for solutions that promote company-wide visibility and knowledge sharing. Don't allow individuals and departments to create their own portals. Aside from isolating information and working against company-wide collaboration, this approach can cause severe maintenance problems for departments as well as for centralized IT.