#1 Solution Spotlight: Diversification of teams thanks to Multi Vendor environment
4 months ago
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#1 Multi Vendor enviroment
Most large companies today rely on a complex digital architecture to power their business. It can be the engine of success, but it can also be the Achilles heel that holds companies back.
In fact, digital solutions can be so large that operating them by a single team may not be efficient or even possible. In this case, it is often necessary to split the operation of the systems between multiple teams or suppliers.
And this is where the problem can arise, much like an orchestra playing without a conductor. The result is chaos. A Multi Vendor environment prevents chaos. It brings together different vendors and developers working on a common technology platform through clearly and detailed defined rules and processes.
"Thanks to the successful implementation of the Multi Vendor environment in ČSOB Pojištovna, we have strengthened our internal know-how, established our internal team and achieved greater flexibility in the procurement of external contracts. One of the most important aspects of Lundegaard's work was the de facto expansion of our internal methodology and technical readiness, with an emphasis on accelerating the onboarding of new resources - internal or external. For example, a knowledge base containing technical documentation and development practices was a key element of the delivery. The introduction of quality assurance controls for delivery was a major benefit. These elements greatly simplified and accelerated the acceptance of inputs from the solution teams."
These words from our client perfectly illustrate why the Multi Vendor Environment (MVE) is an essential tool for modern large companies. It can not only diversify development teams but also create a more flexible, robust and innovative collaboration system.
Rules and rules again...
The inclusion of multiple suppliers has its essential prerequisites and recommendations. Clearly defined boundaries and the existence of detailed documentation with examples of use, configuration and operation are essential. In the first place, there must also be rules on how to operate and develop the system. These rules must be very specific, going down to the details and differences of the technology or programming language. They must include definitions of the principles of work in formal and syntactic terms, precise definitions of inputs/outputs and much more.
Key elements of the MVE
Several key aspects are essential to the success of a Multi Vendor environment:
The rules of the game are clear: Each partner knows its boundaries, responsibilities and expectations. Standardized documentation covers everything from configuration to inputs and outputs.
Standardization comes first: Instead of proprietary solutions, open technologies are used to simplify collaboration between teams.
Automation for efficiency. Automation of manual testing also makes it easier to verify the functionality of partial modifications in the context of the overall solution. It eliminates human errors, increases the reliability of results and delivers significant savings in time and resources.
Coordination at all levels: Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) ensures smooth communication between suppliers and sets clear processes for collaboration.
Why invest in a Multi Vendor environment?
The benefits of MVE are clear:
Elimination of dependency on a single partner: Imagine if a key supplier ends the collaboration or fails to respond to your needs. MVE minimizes this dependency.
Competitive environment: Involving different partners encourages innovation and leads to better results.
Flexibility: faster onboarding of new partners and easier integration of new technologies.
Speed: The ability to have multiple teams or vendors working in parallel on different parts of a project significantly reduces the time it takes to complete the overall solution.
More robust processes: the MVE sets clear rules that promote collaboration and transparency.
How to get started?
Getting started may be easier than you think. The key is to conduct a detailed audit of your existing processes and technologies, define clear rules, and implement automation. Collaboration with teams at all levels and training for all parties involved is also important.
A Multi Vendor environment offers not just a solution, but a whole new way to approach the development and management of IT in your company. With MVE, you can take your business into the future - faster, more efficiently and with the confidence that your digital infrastructure can withstand any challenge.