Griffin Tedeschini
Simon Fraser University
Griffin Tedeschini is a Senior Business Analyst at Simon Fraser University (Burnaby) in the IT Services department. Having worked in IT for over 20 years, she specializes in project management, business analysis, and technical writing.
Importance – When technical resources are tasked with producing strategic documents (i.e. Project Charter, Business Case), it requires a shift in focus, and the ability to move from a technical to a strategic perspective.... [ view full abstract ]
Importance – When technical resources are tasked with producing strategic documents (i.e. Project Charter, Business Case), it requires a shift in focus, and the ability to move from a technical to a strategic perspective. Technical resources are the ones on the project tasked with figuring out the “how”, however project proposal artifacts are focused on the “why” and the “what” – Why are we proposing this project, and not another? What problem are we trying to solve for the client? What are the benefits of implementing this project?
Relevance – Given the rise of technical resources being asked to provide input, and in some cases draft project document (i.e. Project Charter, Business Case), this presentation will provide tips and skills to enable them to move from technical to strategic thinking – skills imperative to create successful strategic documents. As well, these skills could ensure a quicker turn around on the creation, submission, and eventual approval of these documents.
Value/Interest to Canadian Higher Ed IT Community – This presentation will provide ways to shift thinking from a technical to a strategic perspective. This not only improves the viability of project proposal documents, but also provides opportunities to expand our project view, moving from a technical to a strategic focus. Strategic thinking also enables people to shift from a reactive to a proactive perspective – beneficial for both operational and project work.
Participant Interaction – The presentation will be interactive, with feedback solicited from attendees. The presentation will include tips, information, and reference they are able to take back to their workplace.
Learning Outcomes include:
- Tips on moving from a technical focus to a more strategic vision
- What kinds of questions to explore when trying to discern the audience is for such artifacts
- What kind of language to use when putting together strategic documents
- What kind of details/information is important when structuring strategic documents
People: Professional development / keeping skills current / staying ahead of the tech curv
