Underscore Transformation Transistor (https://transistor.fm) https://feeds.transistor.fm/underscore-transformation Helping HR leaders lead high-stakes business change – even if it’s your first time. This Podcast is built for HR pros tasked with change projects that feel too big, too fast, or too complex. Each week, get practical tools, proven frameworks, and guidance from the team behind 65+ major change programmes. You’ll learn to: • Diagnose complex business problems • Design people-first solutions • Deliver results your exec team will notice No theory. No fluff. Just straight-talking support to help you take the lead — and grow your credibility while you're at it. Subscribe to make change that sticks — and finally feel in control of it. Underscore Group ced59cea-837b-5a69-958f-dd78e4b67b43 yes Underscore Transformation Season One - Trailer en Tue, 08 Sep 2026 13:40:37 +0100 Tue, 08 Sep 2026 13:43:06 +0100 https://www.underscoregroup.com https://img.transistorcdn.com/OPXTqg344lW0q_E40chVpMSs7vw0_VTU-kWYbAwkX2I/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:1400/h:1400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS9zaG93/LzQyMDMvMTY4NDE1/ODgyMy1hcnR3b3Jr/LmpwZw.jpg Underscore Transformation https://www.underscoregroup.com episodic Jason West & Joe Ales Helping HR leaders lead high-stakes business change – even if it’s your first time. This Podcast is built for HR pros tasked with change projects that feel too big, too fast, or too complex. Each week, get practical tools, proven frameworks, and guidance from the team behind 65+ major change programmes. You’ll learn to: • Diagnose complex business problems • Design people-first solutions • Deliver results your exec team will notice No theory. No fluff. Just straight-talking support to help you take the lead — and grow your credibility while you're at it. Subscribe to make change that sticks — and finally feel in control of it. Helping HR leaders lead high-stakes business change – even if it’s your first time. Solution Design Checklist, Business transformation, Change management, Digital transformation, HR Transformation, Cloud, SAAS, HCM, ERP, Jason West No No Bonus - The Future of Work: Finding the people to lead your digital transformation part two 2 2 20 20 Bonus - The Future of Work: Finding the people to lead your digital transformation part two bonus 1828c88f-282d-4b1f-a852-591b131433ab https://share.transistor.fm/s/df129dc0  
Key takeaways: As businesses look to develop resourcing plans that align with their business strategy, working out what those required skills are is a key part of HR's value. However, in addition to being able to assess the skills needed in the here and now, organisations will also need people who can anticipate how things might change, describe what good will look like in the future, and understand what's happening in the wider marketplace and the implications this has. HR professionals therefore need to reassess their role in the overall talent strategy for their business, and insist on being part of the bigger discussion on realising the organisation’s vision.

Thank you to our guests - Mari Milsom and Simon Brown - for joining us for this podcast episode and sharing their expertise and insight on the Future of Work.


To learn more about how Underscore can support you in developing your workplace of the future, please visit: https://www.underscore-group.com/virtual-training/

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on crisis management, virtual training, transformation and project resourcing. 

Remember to subscribe for the second part of this discussion.  If you found this podcast useful, please leave a review and share with your network.

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.


]]>  
Key takeaways: As businesses look to develop resourcing plans that align with their business strategy, working out what those required skills are is a key part of HR's value. However, in addition to being able to assess the skills needed in the here and now, organisations will also need people who can anticipate how things might change, describe what good will look like in the future, and understand what's happening in the wider marketplace and the implications this has. HR professionals therefore need to reassess their role in the overall talent strategy for their business, and insist on being part of the bigger discussion on realising the organisation’s vision.

Thank you to our guests - Mari Milsom and Simon Brown - for joining us for this podcast episode and sharing their expertise and insight on the Future of Work.


To learn more about how Underscore can support you in developing your workplace of the future, please visit: https://www.underscore-group.com/virtual-training/

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on crisis management, virtual training, transformation and project resourcing. 

Remember to subscribe for the second part of this discussion.  If you found this podcast useful, please leave a review and share with your network.

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.


]]> Thu, 03 Sep 2020 06:00:00 +0100 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 2003 Following on from last week's episode, Jason and Joe continue the conversation with Mari Milsom and Simon Brown as the panel share their experiences in hiring people with essential digital business skills and how to fill some of the most challenging skills gaps in the digital world we now live and work in. They also share some really practical advice on attracting, selecting, and retaining the most valuable skills in the market. Following on from last week's episode, Jason and Joe continue the conversation with Mari Milsom and Simon Brown as the panel share their experiences in hiring people with essential digital business skills and how to fill some of the most challenging skill Solution Design Checklist, Business transformation, Change management, Digital transformation, HR Transformation, Cloud, SAAS, HCM, ERP, No Bonus - The Future of Work: Finding the people to lead your digital transformation 2 2 19 19 Bonus - The Future of Work: Finding the people to lead your digital transformation bonus 27080c92-a115-44db-b71d-42d7ed3e26db https://share.transistor.fm/s/a4495413  
Key takeaways: Now that individuals are working much more flexibly, the employee touch points, whether it's people processes, finance processes, procurement processes, need to provide a really positive experience. As such, the user experience will be much more important than ever going forward, and this is something that will affect the whole employee journey, from recruitment, through to on-boarding, as well as retention, reward and off-boarding. 

Thank you to our guests - Mari Milsom and Simon Brown - for joining us for this podcast episode and sharing their expertise and insight on the Future of Work.


To learn more about how Underscore can support you in developing your workplace of the future, please visit: https://www.underscore-group.com/virtual-training/

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on crisis management, virtual training, transformation and project resourcing. 

Remember to subscribe for the second part of this discussion.  If you found this podcast useful, please leave a review and share with your network.

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.


]]>  
Key takeaways: Now that individuals are working much more flexibly, the employee touch points, whether it's people processes, finance processes, procurement processes, need to provide a really positive experience. As such, the user experience will be much more important than ever going forward, and this is something that will affect the whole employee journey, from recruitment, through to on-boarding, as well as retention, reward and off-boarding. 

Thank you to our guests - Mari Milsom and Simon Brown - for joining us for this podcast episode and sharing their expertise and insight on the Future of Work.


To learn more about how Underscore can support you in developing your workplace of the future, please visit: https://www.underscore-group.com/virtual-training/

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on crisis management, virtual training, transformation and project resourcing. 

Remember to subscribe for the second part of this discussion.  If you found this podcast useful, please leave a review and share with your network.

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.


]]> Thu, 27 Aug 2020 06:00:00 +0100 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 2040 So far during our panel debates we've looked at organisations' initial response to the pandemic, the long-term effects of recent changes to ways of working, and the skills and capabilities needed to thrive in an ever more digital world. This week we're focusing on buying digital business skills from the market. Our expert panel, Mari Milsom, Simon Brown and Joe Ales discuss their experiences of obtaining the skills needed to successfully deliver enduring digital change. So far during our panel debates we've looked at organisations' initial response to the pandemic, the long-term effects of recent changes to ways of working, and the skills and capabilities needed to thrive in an ever more digital world. This week we're fo Future of Work, Crisis Management, Recovery, Business Transformation, Leadership, HR Transformation, Human Resources, Learning & Development, Learning, Development, Training, Skills, Competencies No Bonus - The Future of Work: Reflecting on the Discussions So Far 2 2 18 18 Bonus - The Future of Work: Reflecting on the Discussions So Far bonus c9bac975-6072-4cbc-adb5-30f0601b0491 https://share.transistor.fm/s/4c3909e6  
Key Takeaways: It's more important than ever for organisations to invest in technology to provide the user experience that customers - internal and external - have come to expect as a result of modern life. But in order to do so, organisations also need to develop their people to ensure they can comfortably use and integrate new technology into their working lives.

This podcast episode is the fifth in our bonus series on the Future of Work. Find the previous episodes on our podcast page, or wherever you get your podcasts. We will be joined by another panel of experts next week.

To learn more about how Underscore can support you in developing your workplace of the future, please visit: https://www.underscore-group.com/virtual-training/

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on crisis management, virtual training, transformation and project resourcing. 

If you found this podcast useful, please leave a review and share with your network.

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]>  
Key Takeaways: It's more important than ever for organisations to invest in technology to provide the user experience that customers - internal and external - have come to expect as a result of modern life. But in order to do so, organisations also need to develop their people to ensure they can comfortably use and integrate new technology into their working lives.

This podcast episode is the fifth in our bonus series on the Future of Work. Find the previous episodes on our podcast page, or wherever you get your podcasts. We will be joined by another panel of experts next week.

To learn more about how Underscore can support you in developing your workplace of the future, please visit: https://www.underscore-group.com/virtual-training/

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on crisis management, virtual training, transformation and project resourcing. 

If you found this podcast useful, please leave a review and share with your network.

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 20 Aug 2020 06:00:00 +0100 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 1125 In this week's episode Joe and Jason reflect on some of the discussions and insights from the recent panel debates, share their definition of digital transformation, and look at the macro trends driving digital transformation. In this week's episode Joe and Jason reflect on some of the discussions and insights from the recent panel debates, share their definition of digital transformation, and look at the macro trends driving digital transformation. Future of Work, Digital Transformation, Recovery, Business Transformation, Leadership, HR Transformation, Human Resources, Learning & Development, Learning, Development, Training, Skills, Competencies No Bonus - Building Capability to Thrive in a Digital World: Part 2 2 2 17 17 Bonus - Building Capability to Thrive in a Digital World: Part 2 bonus 6ebc2f5c-1be8-420c-8be1-fce6233de6b3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/29a153ed   

Key takeaways: As organisation continue to adjust to a post-COVID digital world, HR is going to be a driving force behind building the new world of work. As such, HR professionals need to be equipped with the skillset, mindset, and toolset to respond appropriately and support organisations and employees in rising to the challenge of confidently navigating change. To achieve this, HR professionals need to develop skills in key areas such as business acumen, change management, data analysis, programme management, design thinking, user experience and marketing.

Thank you to our guests - Emma Lucas, Craig McCoy, and Rachel Kay - for joining us for this podcast episode and sharing their expertise and insight on the Future of Work.


To view a webinar outlining the Sage/ Personnel Today report that Craig mentioned during the podcast, please visit: https://www.personneltoday.com/five-ways-hr-is-changing-and-how-people-leaders-can-get-ahead-on-demand-webinar/

To learn more about how Underscore can support you in developing your workplace of the future, please visit: https://www.underscore-group.com/virtual-training/

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on crisis management, virtual training, transformation and project resourcing. 

Remember to subscribe for the second part of this discussion.  If you found this podcast useful, please leave a review and share with your network.

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]>   

Key takeaways: As organisation continue to adjust to a post-COVID digital world, HR is going to be a driving force behind building the new world of work. As such, HR professionals need to be equipped with the skillset, mindset, and toolset to respond appropriately and support organisations and employees in rising to the challenge of confidently navigating change. To achieve this, HR professionals need to develop skills in key areas such as business acumen, change management, data analysis, programme management, design thinking, user experience and marketing.

Thank you to our guests - Emma Lucas, Craig McCoy, and Rachel Kay - for joining us for this podcast episode and sharing their expertise and insight on the Future of Work.


To view a webinar outlining the Sage/ Personnel Today report that Craig mentioned during the podcast, please visit: https://www.personneltoday.com/five-ways-hr-is-changing-and-how-people-leaders-can-get-ahead-on-demand-webinar/

To learn more about how Underscore can support you in developing your workplace of the future, please visit: https://www.underscore-group.com/virtual-training/

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on crisis management, virtual training, transformation and project resourcing. 

Remember to subscribe for the second part of this discussion.  If you found this podcast useful, please leave a review and share with your network.

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 13 Aug 2020 06:00:00 +0100 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 1707 Last week we looked at the skills that employees across the organisation need in order to prepare for a post-COVID digital world. This week, we're joined again by special guests Emma Lucas, Rachel Kay and Craig McCoy to discuss the capabilities needed within HR to support organisations during this transition, and beyond. Last week we looked at the skills that employees across the organisation need in order to prepare for a post-COVID digital world. This week, we're joined again by special guests Emma Lucas, Rachel Kay and Craig McCoy to discuss the capabilities needed wit Future of Work, Crisis Management, Recovery, Business Transformation, Leadership, HR Transformation, Human Resources, Learning & Development, Learning, Development, Training, Skills, Competencies No Bonus - The Future of Work: Building the Capability to Thrive in a Digital World 2 2 16 16 Bonus - The Future of Work: Building the Capability to Thrive in a Digital World bonus eca40c81-a86d-4777-bed6-34517100e771 https://share.transistor.fm/s/7e53586a
Key takeaways: As organisation continue to adjust to a post-COVID digital world, they need to equip employees, leaders and HR functions with key skills, competencies, and behaviours, with a greater focus on business skills such as creative thinking, communication and problem solving alongside technical expertise, business analytics, programme management and marketing capabilities.

Thank you to our guests - Emma Lucas, Craig McCoy, and Rachel Kay - for joining us for this podcast episode and sharing their expertise and insight on the Future of Work.


To view a webinar outlining the Sage / Personnel Today report that Craig mentioned during the podcast, please visit: https://www.personneltoday.com/five-ways-hr-is-changing-and-how-people-leaders-can-get-ahead-on-demand-webinar/

To learn more about how Underscore can support you in developing your workplace of the future, please visit: https://www.underscore-group.com/virtual-training/

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on crisis management, virtual training, transformation and project resourcing. 

Remember to subscribe for the second part of this discussion.  If you found this podcast useful, please leave a review and share with your network.

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]>
Key takeaways: As organisation continue to adjust to a post-COVID digital world, they need to equip employees, leaders and HR functions with key skills, competencies, and behaviours, with a greater focus on business skills such as creative thinking, communication and problem solving alongside technical expertise, business analytics, programme management and marketing capabilities.

Thank you to our guests - Emma Lucas, Craig McCoy, and Rachel Kay - for joining us for this podcast episode and sharing their expertise and insight on the Future of Work.


To view a webinar outlining the Sage / Personnel Today report that Craig mentioned during the podcast, please visit: https://www.personneltoday.com/five-ways-hr-is-changing-and-how-people-leaders-can-get-ahead-on-demand-webinar/

To learn more about how Underscore can support you in developing your workplace of the future, please visit: https://www.underscore-group.com/virtual-training/

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on crisis management, virtual training, transformation and project resourcing. 

Remember to subscribe for the second part of this discussion.  If you found this podcast useful, please leave a review and share with your network.

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 06 Aug 2020 06:00:00 +0100 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 2068 This week we are joined by three special guests, Emma Lucas from M&S, Rachel Kay from Capita, and Craig McCoy HR Director and Chair of the London HR Connection. Join our expert panel as we peel back another layer of the future of work and discuss the skills, competencies and behaviours that organisations, and the people that work in them, need to thrive in a post-COVID digital world. This week we are joined by three special guests, Emma Lucas from M&S, Rachel Kay from Capita, and Craig McCoy HR Director and Chair of the London HR Connection. Join our expert panel as we peel back another layer of the future of work and discuss the Future of Work, Learning & Development, Learning, Development, Training, Skills, Competencies, Digital Transformation, Business Transformation, Transformation, HR Transformation No Bonus - The Future of Work and the Pandemic - Part Two 2 2 15 15 Bonus - The Future of Work and the Pandemic - Part Two bonus ddf129c7-ae68-43b6-b07a-1e55a3424781 https://share.transistor.fm/s/2d511290
Key takeaways: Areas such as the digitalization of work, and ensuring that employees are adequately trained to work in a digital way, along with HR's role in supporting employee wellbeing and mental health have long been ares of focus for progressive HR functions. COVID-19 has forced the pace of change, organisations have to address these issues at speed for the sake of the business and its workforce.

Thank you to our guests - Marc Weedon, Steve Hunt, and Richard Phelps - for joining us for this podcast episode and sharing their expertise and insight on the Future of Work.


To learn more about how Underscore can support you in developing your workplace of the future, please visit: https://www.underscore-group.com/transformation_home/

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on crisis management, virtual training, transformation and project resourcing. 

Remember to subscribe for the third installment of this mini-series which returns with another expert panel in early August.  If you found this podcast useful, please leave a review and share with your colleagues.

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]>
Key takeaways: Areas such as the digitalization of work, and ensuring that employees are adequately trained to work in a digital way, along with HR's role in supporting employee wellbeing and mental health have long been ares of focus for progressive HR functions. COVID-19 has forced the pace of change, organisations have to address these issues at speed for the sake of the business and its workforce.

Thank you to our guests - Marc Weedon, Steve Hunt, and Richard Phelps - for joining us for this podcast episode and sharing their expertise and insight on the Future of Work.


To learn more about how Underscore can support you in developing your workplace of the future, please visit: https://www.underscore-group.com/transformation_home/

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on crisis management, virtual training, transformation and project resourcing. 

Remember to subscribe for the third installment of this mini-series which returns with another expert panel in early August.  If you found this podcast useful, please leave a review and share with your colleagues.

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 16 Jul 2020 06:00:00 +0100 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 2508 In this second episode on the Future of Work and the impact of the pandemic, Jason and Joe are once again joined by special guests Richard Phelps, Steve Hunt, and Marc Weedon, this time to discuss the medium to long-term implications of the recent changes that many businesses have been forced to implement. They explore the potential pitfalls and opportunities organisations will have to face and question whether organisations will simply return to 'business as normal' once they're able, or has the pandemic fundamentally altered the way we view and operate at work? In this second episode on the Future of Work and the impact of the pandemic, Jason and Joe are once again joined by special guests Richard Phelps, Steve Hunt, and Marc Weedon, this time to discuss the medium to long-term implications of the recent changes Future of Work, Human Resources, Leadership, Crisis Management, Coronavirus, Covid-19, Pandemic, Recovery, People Management, Remote Working, Transformation, Business Transformation, Disaster Management, Global Pandemic, Mark Weedon, Steve Hunt, Richard Phelps, Joe Ales, Jason West, HR experts, Economic impact No Bonus - The Future of Work and the Pandemic - HR Expert Panel Debate 2 2 14 14 Bonus - The Future of Work and the Pandemic - HR Expert Panel Debate bonus 14fdc34d-cdb2-4da8-93e2-7a6a81619bf5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/23fefb96 There's been more change in the world of work in the last three months than, say, over the past three decades, I'd suggest. 

Key takeaways: Conversations around the future of work show that there are exciting opportunities for the workforce to evolve, but also challenges in how to make that happen. The impact of Covid-19 has had a tangible impact on how many of us work and the ways in which organisations will operate in the future. There is still great uncertainty, but in a time of flux, it's important for businesses and employees to adapt quickly and put new learning into practice to prepare for the future. 

GitLab has got their remote working manifesto. And for those of you who are struggling with this in terms of impact on culture and how you the virtual environment, it's well worth read.

Thank you to our guests - Marc Weedon, Steve Hunt, and Richard Phelps - for joining us for this podcast episode and sharing their expertise and insight on the Future of Work. 


To learn more about how Underscore can support you in developing your workplace of the future, please visit: https://www.underscore-group.com/transformation_home/

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on crisis management, virtual training, transformation and project resourcing. 

Remember to subscribe if you've not done so already to make sure you don't miss the second part to this discussion.  If you found this podcast useful, please leave a review and share with your colleagues.

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.


]]> There's been more change in the world of work in the last three months than, say, over the past three decades, I'd suggest. 

Key takeaways: Conversations around the future of work show that there are exciting opportunities for the workforce to evolve, but also challenges in how to make that happen. The impact of Covid-19 has had a tangible impact on how many of us work and the ways in which organisations will operate in the future. There is still great uncertainty, but in a time of flux, it's important for businesses and employees to adapt quickly and put new learning into practice to prepare for the future. 

GitLab has got their remote working manifesto. And for those of you who are struggling with this in terms of impact on culture and how you the virtual environment, it's well worth read.

Thank you to our guests - Marc Weedon, Steve Hunt, and Richard Phelps - for joining us for this podcast episode and sharing their expertise and insight on the Future of Work. 


To learn more about how Underscore can support you in developing your workplace of the future, please visit: https://www.underscore-group.com/transformation_home/

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on crisis management, virtual training, transformation and project resourcing. 

Remember to subscribe if you've not done so already to make sure you don't miss the second part to this discussion.  If you found this podcast useful, please leave a review and share with your colleagues.

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.


]]> Thu, 09 Jul 2020 08:19:00 +0100 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 2267 In this episode, Joe and Jason are joined by a panel of senior HR experts to discuss the Future of Work and the impact of the global pandemic. The future of work has been a hot topic for some time, with challenges and opportunities around automation and A.I., through to flexible project based working and the gig economy, along with visions of a potentially new social contract that includes universal basic income. But has the coronavirus pandemic simply accelerated an inevitable change in the way we work, or has it presented an unprecedented existential threat that organisations and individuals are going to have to grapple with, and adapt to as new ways of working continue to unfold? In this episode, Joe and Jason are joined by a panel of senior HR experts to discuss the Future of Work and the impact of the global pandemic. The future of work has been a hot topic for some time, with challenges and opportunities around automation and A Future of Work, Human Resources, Leadership, Crisis Management, Coronavirus, Covid-19, Pandemic, Recovery, People Management, Remote Working, Transformation, Business Transformation, Disaster Management, Global Pandemic, Mark Weedon, Steve Hunt, Richard Phelps, Joe Ales, Jason West, HR experts, Economic impact No Bonus - Mental Toughness 2 2 13 13 Bonus - Mental Toughness bonus 97fffed5-b9ab-49b0-b2ff-8ce2db1c7e9e https://share.transistor.fm/s/065dab13 Covid-19 has raised some stark questions about technology, supply chains, staffing, leadership, sustainability, skills and resilience. These questions won’t go away when the virus abates, and many need to be addressed right now. 

You can learn more about Mental Toughness on one of our virtual training courses, please visit https://www.underscore-group.com/virtual-training/

To learn more about Crisis Management, please visit https://www.underscore-group.com/cmr_ad/

For more information on the various psychometric tools available and their uses, please visit https://www.underscore-group.com/psychometrics/

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on crisis management, virtual training, transformation and project resourcing. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Covid-19 has raised some stark questions about technology, supply chains, staffing, leadership, sustainability, skills and resilience. These questions won’t go away when the virus abates, and many need to be addressed right now. 

You can learn more about Mental Toughness on one of our virtual training courses, please visit https://www.underscore-group.com/virtual-training/

To learn more about Crisis Management, please visit https://www.underscore-group.com/cmr_ad/

For more information on the various psychometric tools available and their uses, please visit https://www.underscore-group.com/psychometrics/

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on crisis management, virtual training, transformation and project resourcing. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 30 Apr 2020 06:00:00 +0100 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 1577 Joining Jason West again this week is Lucy Finney MBE, former Major in the British Army and now Head of Leadership Development at Underscore. This week we’re going to going to get a bit more personal and talk about the psychological and emotional impact a crisis has on us as individuals. Specifically, we’re going to delve into the fascinating area of mental toughness and how we can apply learning from this field of academic study to better manage a crisis. Joining Jason West again this week is Lucy Finney MBE, former Major in the British Army and now Head of Leadership Development at Underscore. This week we’re going to going to get a bit more personal and talk about the psychological and emotional impact a Mental Toughness, Leadership, Crisis Management, Team Dynamic, Psychometric, Psychometrics, Coping with lockdown, Covid-19, Corona Virus No Bonus - Crisis Management & Recovery 2 2 12 12 Bonus - Crisis Management & Recovery bonus 07a958d1-5e9c-4607-b8cc-91c8316af4ee https://share.transistor.fm/s/d44319f8 To find out more about the Crisis Management & Recovery Toolkit please visit https://www.underscore-group.com/cmrtoolkit/

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on crisis management, virtual training, transformation and project resourcing. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> To find out more about the Crisis Management & Recovery Toolkit please visit https://www.underscore-group.com/cmrtoolkit/

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on crisis management, virtual training, transformation and project resourcing. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 23 Apr 2020 06:00:00 +0100 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 1807 In the space of a few short weeks, life across the globe has changed beyond recognition. Over a quarter of the planet’s population is in lockdown and over a hundred thousand people have already tragically lost their lives. The pressures put on businesses and governments have raised stark questions about technology, supply chains, staffing, leadership, sustainability, skills and resilience. Now, more than ever, business leaders need to solve complex, novel problems at pace in a highly volatile, uncertain world. Joining us this week is Lucy Finney MBE to share her insight into the tools and techniques used by the British Army to manage battlefield operations and humanitarian crises. Lucy has developed a Crisis Management & Recovery Toolkit that applies these proven crisis management techniques to the commercial sector and combines them with virtual training on crisis leadership skills and effective teaming in a crisis. In the space of a few short weeks, life across the globe has changed beyond recognition. Over a quarter of the planet’s population is in lockdown and over a hundred thousand people have already tragically lost their lives. The pressures put on businesses Corona Virus, Coronavirus, Business Recovery Toolkit, Rebuilding, Recovery, Crisis Management, Covid-19, C4 Leadership, Business Recovery, Lockdown, Crisis Survival, Mental Toughness, VUCA, Volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity, Business As Usual, Learning Mindset, Critical Decision Making, Risk, Response, Problem Solving, Agile, Lucy Finney MBE, Jason West No Governance and Control 2 2 11 11 Governance and Control full 6711d42b-fd7e-4849-a6bb-6d0233cc1441 https://share.transistor.fm/s/8949752f Key takeaway: It’s essential that your executive steering committee, operational steering committee and design authority draw their members from across different functions and areas of the business. 

In this episode, Jason refers to two articles on puzzles and mysteries. The first written by Gregory Treverton in 2007 in the Smithsonian Magazine and describes the differences between puzzles and mysteries, and how to tackle them.  

Here’s a quote from that article:

“Puzzles can be solved; they have answers. But a mystery offers no such comfort. It poses a question that has no definitive answer because the answer is contingent; it depends on a future interaction of many factors, known and unknown. A mystery cannot be answered; it can only be framed, by identifying the critical factors and applying some sense of how they have interacted in the past and might interact in the future. A mystery is an attempt to define ambiguities.”

Read the original Smithsonian article here

The second article was again written in 2007 this time by Malcolm Gladwell and appeared in the New Yorker titled ‘Open Secrets’ in which Gladwell describes the difference neatly.

"The whereabouts of Osama Bin Laden was a puzzle with a definitive answer that was, at the time unsolved, because the US intelligence community didn’t have enough information.  In contrast, the pressing problem of the time was what should happen in Iraq after Saddam Hussein was removed, that was a mystery. There wasn’t a simple, factual answer. Mysteries require judgments and the assessment of uncertainty, and the hard part was not a lack of information but that there was too much. The CIA had a position on post-war Iraq, so did the Pentagon and the State Department, and Colin Powell and Dick Chaney, as did Fox News and MSNBC and CNN and on and on." 

Read Gladwell's New Yorker article here

Welcome to season two of the Underscore Transformation Podcast. We hope you enjoy our episode exploring the importance of governance and control during your business transformation. This season focuses on the Build phase of transformation and follows on directly from season one (Scoping). If you haven't already, we recommend you listen to episodes 2-11 of season one as we will refer back to these topics, and they are vital in building the foundation knowledge required to move into the next phase of transformation.

Season two will cover the following points:  
1. Resource your programme team
2. Build your future support model
3. Manage business change
4. Solution design
5. Get the best out of suppliers
6. Target Operating Model – detailed design
7. Integrations & Reporting
8. Data
9. Testing, testing, testing
10. Governance & control

We will soon be releasing our white paper on the above points, which will be available for download via our website.

If you'd like to be notified of when this becomes available, please contact us via email, or register your interest via our website.

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Key takeaway: It’s essential that your executive steering committee, operational steering committee and design authority draw their members from across different functions and areas of the business. 

In this episode, Jason refers to two articles on puzzles and mysteries. The first written by Gregory Treverton in 2007 in the Smithsonian Magazine and describes the differences between puzzles and mysteries, and how to tackle them.  

Here’s a quote from that article:

“Puzzles can be solved; they have answers. But a mystery offers no such comfort. It poses a question that has no definitive answer because the answer is contingent; it depends on a future interaction of many factors, known and unknown. A mystery cannot be answered; it can only be framed, by identifying the critical factors and applying some sense of how they have interacted in the past and might interact in the future. A mystery is an attempt to define ambiguities.”

Read the original Smithsonian article here

The second article was again written in 2007 this time by Malcolm Gladwell and appeared in the New Yorker titled ‘Open Secrets’ in which Gladwell describes the difference neatly.

"The whereabouts of Osama Bin Laden was a puzzle with a definitive answer that was, at the time unsolved, because the US intelligence community didn’t have enough information.  In contrast, the pressing problem of the time was what should happen in Iraq after Saddam Hussein was removed, that was a mystery. There wasn’t a simple, factual answer. Mysteries require judgments and the assessment of uncertainty, and the hard part was not a lack of information but that there was too much. The CIA had a position on post-war Iraq, so did the Pentagon and the State Department, and Colin Powell and Dick Chaney, as did Fox News and MSNBC and CNN and on and on." 

Read Gladwell's New Yorker article here

Welcome to season two of the Underscore Transformation Podcast. We hope you enjoy our episode exploring the importance of governance and control during your business transformation. This season focuses on the Build phase of transformation and follows on directly from season one (Scoping). If you haven't already, we recommend you listen to episodes 2-11 of season one as we will refer back to these topics, and they are vital in building the foundation knowledge required to move into the next phase of transformation.

Season two will cover the following points:  
1. Resource your programme team
2. Build your future support model
3. Manage business change
4. Solution design
5. Get the best out of suppliers
6. Target Operating Model – detailed design
7. Integrations & Reporting
8. Data
9. Testing, testing, testing
10. Governance & control

We will soon be releasing our white paper on the above points, which will be available for download via our website.

If you'd like to be notified of when this becomes available, please contact us via email, or register your interest via our website.

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 16 Apr 2020 06:00:00 +0100 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 2468 In order to deliver a successful transformation, you need a clear and robust governance structure. Successful governance requires having the right people, in the right roles, meeting regularly, reviewing the right information, and being empowered to make decisions quickly. In this week's episode, we explore why it's essential that everyone playing a role in your governance structure needs to be 100% clear on the purpose of their role, why you need to need to document the terms of reference for each of the decision-making groups within your structure, and why you should consider the thinking styles of the individuals involved. In order to deliver a successful transformation, you need a clear and robust governance structure. Successful governance requires having the right people, in the right roles, meeting regularly, reviewing the right information, and being empowered to make Puzzles & Mysteries, Introverts & Extroverts, Programme Governance, Programme Sponsor, Design Authority, Solution Design Checklist, Business transformation, Change management, Digital transformation, HR Transformation, Cloud, SAAS, HCM, ERP, No Target Operating Model Design 2 2 10 10 Target Operating Model Design full d1ad8838-39b9-4791-b9f0-c089b495ed42 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9b77e156
Key takeaway:  An operating model is the collection of capabilities (people, process and technology) that an organisation deploys to turn its vision and strategy into products and services that deliver value to its customers.

Welcome to season two of the Underscore Transformation Podcast. We hope you enjoy our episode discussing the need for a clear and robust Target Operating Model during your business transformation. This season focuses on the Build phase of transformation and follows on directly from season one (Scoping). If you haven't already, we recommend you listen to episodes 2-11 of season one as we will refer back to these topics, and they are vital in building the foundation knowledge required to move into the next phase of transformation.

Season two will cover the following points:  
1. Resource your programme team
2. Build your future support model
3. Manage business change
4. Solution design
5. Get the best out of suppliers
6. Target Operating Model – detailed design
7. Integrations & Reporting
8. Data
9. Testing, testing, testing
10. Governance & control

We will soon be releasing our white paper on the above points, which will be available for download via our website.

If you'd like to be notified of when this becomes available, please contact us via email, or register your interest via our website.

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]>
Key takeaway:  An operating model is the collection of capabilities (people, process and technology) that an organisation deploys to turn its vision and strategy into products and services that deliver value to its customers.

Welcome to season two of the Underscore Transformation Podcast. We hope you enjoy our episode discussing the need for a clear and robust Target Operating Model during your business transformation. This season focuses on the Build phase of transformation and follows on directly from season one (Scoping). If you haven't already, we recommend you listen to episodes 2-11 of season one as we will refer back to these topics, and they are vital in building the foundation knowledge required to move into the next phase of transformation.

Season two will cover the following points:  
1. Resource your programme team
2. Build your future support model
3. Manage business change
4. Solution design
5. Get the best out of suppliers
6. Target Operating Model – detailed design
7. Integrations & Reporting
8. Data
9. Testing, testing, testing
10. Governance & control

We will soon be releasing our white paper on the above points, which will be available for download via our website.

If you'd like to be notified of when this becomes available, please contact us via email, or register your interest via our website.

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 09 Apr 2020 06:00:00 +0100 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 2855 In this week's episode we consider one of the foundations of business transformation: Target Operating Model design. It's a topic too often shrouded in mystery but it really is a pretty straightforward process. Jason and Joe lay out a simple, step by step approach, the people to involve, and a description of the workshop sessions that will help you define your destination. In this week's episode we consider one of the foundations of business transformation: Target Operating Model design. It's a topic too often shrouded in mystery but it really is a pretty straightforward process. Jason and Joe lay out a simple, step by step Target Operating Model Design, Operating Model Design, TOM, Design Transformation, Process Ownership, Organisational Development, Organisation Design, Business Transformation Checklist No Testing, Testing, Testing - Pt. 2 2 2 9 9 Testing, Testing, Testing - Pt. 2 full b0766851-0cbf-4a2e-b0ec-dc1b1803dd30 https://share.transistor.fm/s/d8ea9ecf Deciding who will test and in which phase of testing is something that requires careful consideration.


Key takeaway: There’s a lot of activity involved in testing a system, and programme leads need to figure out how to to co-ordinate all this testing activity, to ensure it's done effectively.

Welcome to season two of the Underscore Transformation Podcast. We hope you enjoy the second of our episode exploring the importance of comprehensive testing when rolling out a new system during your business transformation. This season focuses on the Build phase of transformation and follows on directly from season one (Scoping). If you haven't already, we recommend you listen to episodes 2-11 of season one as we will refer back to these topics, and they are vital in building the foundation knowledge required to move into the next phase of transformation.

Season two will cover the following points:  
1. Resource your programme team
2. Build your future support model
3. Manage business change
4. Solution design
5. Get the best out of suppliers
6. Target Operating Model – detailed design
7. Integrations & Reporting
8. Data
9. Testing, testing, testing
10. Governance & control

We will soon be releasing our white paper on the above points, which will be available for download via our website.

If you'd like to be notified of when this becomes available, please contact us via email, or register your interest via our website.

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Deciding who will test and in which phase of testing is something that requires careful consideration.


Key takeaway: There’s a lot of activity involved in testing a system, and programme leads need to figure out how to to co-ordinate all this testing activity, to ensure it's done effectively.

Welcome to season two of the Underscore Transformation Podcast. We hope you enjoy the second of our episode exploring the importance of comprehensive testing when rolling out a new system during your business transformation. This season focuses on the Build phase of transformation and follows on directly from season one (Scoping). If you haven't already, we recommend you listen to episodes 2-11 of season one as we will refer back to these topics, and they are vital in building the foundation knowledge required to move into the next phase of transformation.

Season two will cover the following points:  
1. Resource your programme team
2. Build your future support model
3. Manage business change
4. Solution design
5. Get the best out of suppliers
6. Target Operating Model – detailed design
7. Integrations & Reporting
8. Data
9. Testing, testing, testing
10. Governance & control

We will soon be releasing our white paper on the above points, which will be available for download via our website.

If you'd like to be notified of when this becomes available, please contact us via email, or register your interest via our website.

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 02 Apr 2020 06:00:00 +0100 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 2032 In last week's episode, we discussed how testing covers a lot more than just systems, the need for an experienced test manager as well as a clear strategy and testing plan, and we covered some of the different phases of testing. This week we consider what steps a programme sponsor or transformation lead needs to take in order to co-ordinate all of this activity, and help you develop a plan to keep a track of all this activity when you’ve got Process Owners demanding changes, test teams identifying defects, and functional consultants making changes across your new system. In last week's episode, we discussed how testing covers a lot more than just systems, the need for an experienced test manager as well as a clear strategy and testing plan, and we covered some of the different phases of testing. This week we consider what Business Transformation strategy, Regression Testing, Test Management, Training, Defect Management No Testing, Testing, Testing - Pt. 1 2 2 8 8 Testing, Testing, Testing - Pt. 1 full 40037f1d-c39b-4565-9d9b-4f8cf849d0f7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/fef99c4b As a minimum, you need testers who understand the testing process and how to navigate their way around your new system. But the best testers are people who take delight in breaking things and can articulate precisely how they broke them.


Key Takeaway: Even the most well developed SAAS solutions need extensive testing to avoid process errors, data breaches, failed integrations and operational issues when they go live.

Welcome to season two of the Underscore Transformation Podcast. We hope you enjoy this episode exploring the importance of comprehensive testing when rolling out a new system during your business transformation. This season focuses on the Build phase of transformation and follows on directly from season one (Scoping). If you haven't already, we recommend you listen to episodes 2-11 of season one as we will refer back to these topics, and they are vital in building the foundation knowledge required to move into the next phase of transformation.

Season two will cover the following points:  
1. Resource your programme team
2. Build your future support model
3. Manage business change
4. Solution design
5. Get the best out of suppliers
6. Target Operating Model – detailed design
7. Integrations & Reporting
8. Data
9. Testing, testing, testing
10. Governance & control

We will soon be releasing our white paper on the above points, which will be available for download via our website.

If you'd like to be notified of when this becomes available, please contact us via email, or register your interest via our website.

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> As a minimum, you need testers who understand the testing process and how to navigate their way around your new system. But the best testers are people who take delight in breaking things and can articulate precisely how they broke them.


Key Takeaway: Even the most well developed SAAS solutions need extensive testing to avoid process errors, data breaches, failed integrations and operational issues when they go live.

Welcome to season two of the Underscore Transformation Podcast. We hope you enjoy this episode exploring the importance of comprehensive testing when rolling out a new system during your business transformation. This season focuses on the Build phase of transformation and follows on directly from season one (Scoping). If you haven't already, we recommend you listen to episodes 2-11 of season one as we will refer back to these topics, and they are vital in building the foundation knowledge required to move into the next phase of transformation.

Season two will cover the following points:  
1. Resource your programme team
2. Build your future support model
3. Manage business change
4. Solution design
5. Get the best out of suppliers
6. Target Operating Model – detailed design
7. Integrations & Reporting
8. Data
9. Testing, testing, testing
10. Governance & control

We will soon be releasing our white paper on the above points, which will be available for download via our website.

If you'd like to be notified of when this becomes available, please contact us via email, or register your interest via our website.

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 26 Mar 2020 06:30:00 +0000 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 3659 One of the fastest and most assured routes to transformation failure is to short cut testing. It's an absolutely essential, yet often overlooked aspect of transformation. In this week's episode, we aim to give functional leaders, who may be new to transformation and large scale system implementations, a broad introduction to testing and how to avoid the common mistakes that cause programmes to fail. One of the fastest and most assured routes to transformation failure is to short cut testing. It's an absolutely essential, yet often overlooked aspect of transformation. In this week's episode, we aim to give functional leaders, who may be new to transfo Testing Strategy, Process Ownership, User Acceptance, Smoke Test, Unit Testing, Test Management, Business Transformation, Change Management No Data 2 2 7 7 Data full 1ef0c997-4cca-4ade-b339-a30a69a48e27 https://share.transistor.fm/s/4cc100dc Key Takeaway: Successful digital transformation requires a firm grasp on Data Architecture, Master Data Management and Data Extract Transformation & Load (ETL).

This episode provides an introduction to these concepts and vital Information you need to avoid the common pitfalls when implementing new technology.

Welcome to season two of the Underscore Transformation Podcast. We hope you enjoy this episode exploring the importance of robust data management in business transformation. This season focuses on the Build phase of transformation and follows on directly from season one (Scoping). If you haven't already, we recommend you listen to episodes 2-11 of season one as we will refer back to these topics, and they are vital in building the foundation knowledge required to move into the next phase of transformation.

Season two will cover the following points:  
1. Resource your programme team
2. Build your future support model
3. Manage business change
4. Solution design
5. Get the best out of suppliers
6. Target Operating Model – detailed design
7. Integrations & Reporting
8. Data
9. Testing, testing, testing
10. Governance & control

We will soon be releasing our white paper on the above points, which will be available for download via our website.

If you'd like to be notified of when this becomes available, please contact us via email, or register your interest via our website.

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Key Takeaway: Successful digital transformation requires a firm grasp on Data Architecture, Master Data Management and Data Extract Transformation & Load (ETL).

This episode provides an introduction to these concepts and vital Information you need to avoid the common pitfalls when implementing new technology.

Welcome to season two of the Underscore Transformation Podcast. We hope you enjoy this episode exploring the importance of robust data management in business transformation. This season focuses on the Build phase of transformation and follows on directly from season one (Scoping). If you haven't already, we recommend you listen to episodes 2-11 of season one as we will refer back to these topics, and they are vital in building the foundation knowledge required to move into the next phase of transformation.

Season two will cover the following points:  
1. Resource your programme team
2. Build your future support model
3. Manage business change
4. Solution design
5. Get the best out of suppliers
6. Target Operating Model – detailed design
7. Integrations & Reporting
8. Data
9. Testing, testing, testing
10. Governance & control

We will soon be releasing our white paper on the above points, which will be available for download via our website.

If you'd like to be notified of when this becomes available, please contact us via email, or register your interest via our website.

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 19 Mar 2020 06:00:00 +0000 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 2599 Data is the lifeblood of business, it helps you understand past performance, predict future performance, and informs decisions every day. Implementing new systems as part of a transformation initiative shines a spotlight on your data architecture and data maturity. This week we explore why having a good understanding of the data you have today, the data you need tomorrow, and how you’re going to extract data from your current systems and load it into new ones, are essential to the success of your programme. Data is the lifeblood of business, it helps you understand past performance, predict future performance, and informs decisions every day. Implementing new systems as part of a transformation initiative shines a spotlight on your data architecture and data Solution design checklist, data compliance, testing, SQL Database, HCM Technology, ETL tools, GDPR, Legacy data, system design, No Intergrations & Reporting 2 2 6 6 Intergrations & Reporting full 60ae876c-501a-4b3c-9ca8-d34fde9526d8 https://share.transistor.fm/s/557af33e Both integrations and reporting are ways of transmitting data. Integration is point to point - it's data transmitted from one system to another. Reporting is data transmitted to a human'.


Key Takeaway: The role that reporting and analytics play in the delivery of your business transformation.

Welcome to season two of the Underscore Transformation Podcast. We hope you enjoy this episode exploring the importance of reporting and analytics in business transformation. This season focuses on the Build phase of transformation and follows on directly from season one (Scoping). If you haven't already, we recommend you listen to episodes 2-11 of season one as we will refer back to these topics, and they are vital in building the foundation knowledge required to move into the next phase of transformation.

Season two will cover the following points:  
1. Resource your programme team
2. Build your future support model
3. Manage business change
4. Solution design
5. Get the best out of suppliers
6. Target Operating Model – detailed design
7. Integrations & Reporting
8. Data
9. Testing, testing, testing
10. Governance & control

We will soon be releasing our white paper on the above points, which will be available for download via our website.

If you'd like to be notified of when this becomes available, please contact us via email, or register your interest via our website.

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Both integrations and reporting are ways of transmitting data. Integration is point to point - it's data transmitted from one system to another. Reporting is data transmitted to a human'.


Key Takeaway: The role that reporting and analytics play in the delivery of your business transformation.

Welcome to season two of the Underscore Transformation Podcast. We hope you enjoy this episode exploring the importance of reporting and analytics in business transformation. This season focuses on the Build phase of transformation and follows on directly from season one (Scoping). If you haven't already, we recommend you listen to episodes 2-11 of season one as we will refer back to these topics, and they are vital in building the foundation knowledge required to move into the next phase of transformation.

Season two will cover the following points:  
1. Resource your programme team
2. Build your future support model
3. Manage business change
4. Solution design
5. Get the best out of suppliers
6. Target Operating Model – detailed design
7. Integrations & Reporting
8. Data
9. Testing, testing, testing
10. Governance & control

We will soon be releasing our white paper on the above points, which will be available for download via our website.

If you'd like to be notified of when this becomes available, please contact us via email, or register your interest via our website.

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 12 Mar 2020 06:30:00 +0000 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 2536 The advent of Software-As-A-Service cloud technology has opened up new opportunities to automate, streamline and deliver data-driven insight to the worlds of Finance, HR and Procurement. But this revolution brings with it a new wave of risks; the top three centre on integrations, data and testing. In this episode, we look at the first of these technology risks, how it can be mitigated, and explore the vital role that reporting and integrations play in the delivery of your business transformation. The advent of Software-As-A-Service cloud technology has opened up new opportunities to automate, streamline and deliver data-driven insight to the worlds of Finance, HR and Procurement. But this revolution brings with it a new wave of risks; the top thre system integration, technical project management, reporting, architecture, master data management No Getting the best out of Suppliers 2 2 5 5 Getting the best out of Suppliers full 9c91a389-9da8-43f2-94f2-0db6791d7621 https://share.transistor.fm/s/64a083d8 As a customer of that technology vendor, engage with whatever there product development process is. Even though we're talking about implementation right now get involved early; influence the roadmap. 


Welcome to season two of the Underscore Transformation Podcast. We hope you enjoy this episode exploring the importance of selecting the right technology vendors, management consultants and integration partners for your business transformation. This season focuses on the Build phase of transformation and follows on directly from season one (Scoping). If you haven't already, we recommend you listen to episodes 2-11 of season one as we will refer back to these topics, and they are vital in building the foundation knowledge required to move into the next phase of transformation.

Season two will cover the following points:  
1. Resource your programme team

2. Build your future support model


3. Manage business change

4. Solution design

5. Get the best out of suppliers

6. Target Operating Model – detailed design

7. Integrations & Reporting

8. Data

9. Testing, testing, testing


10. Governance & control

We will soon be releasing our white paper on the above points, which will be available for download via our website.

If you'd like to be notified of when this becomes available, please contact us via email, or register your interest via our website.

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> As a customer of that technology vendor, engage with whatever there product development process is. Even though we're talking about implementation right now get involved early; influence the roadmap. 


Welcome to season two of the Underscore Transformation Podcast. We hope you enjoy this episode exploring the importance of selecting the right technology vendors, management consultants and integration partners for your business transformation. This season focuses on the Build phase of transformation and follows on directly from season one (Scoping). If you haven't already, we recommend you listen to episodes 2-11 of season one as we will refer back to these topics, and they are vital in building the foundation knowledge required to move into the next phase of transformation.

Season two will cover the following points:  
1. Resource your programme team

2. Build your future support model


3. Manage business change

4. Solution design

5. Get the best out of suppliers

6. Target Operating Model – detailed design

7. Integrations & Reporting

8. Data

9. Testing, testing, testing


10. Governance & control

We will soon be releasing our white paper on the above points, which will be available for download via our website.

If you'd like to be notified of when this becomes available, please contact us via email, or register your interest via our website.

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 05 Mar 2020 06:30:00 +0000 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 2869 A common challenge facing business transformation programmes is the misunderstanding and confusion around the roles that external suppliers should play, versus those of your internal programme team. External suppliers can include management consultants, technology vendors, and integration partners - all of which have an essential role to play in delivering successful transformation. In this episode, we discuss how, as a programme sponsor, you can reduce the risk of selecting the wrong partners for your needs, and avoid the confusion that arises when you ask the wrong people, whether external or internal, to take on the wrong tasks in your transformation. A common challenge facing business transformation programmes is the misunderstanding and confusion around the roles that external suppliers should play, versus those of your internal programme team. External suppliers can include management consultants, t Programme Team, Technology Vendors, Management Consultants, System Implementation, Integrated Supply Chain, No Design the Future 2 2 4 4 Design the Future full 17956b7d-6159-4f0c-a172-fbf0313d2914 https://share.transistor.fm/s/3c7d0ff0 Welcome to season two of the Underscore Transformation Podcast. This season focuses on the Build phase of transformation, and follows on directly from season one (Scoping). If you haven't already, we recommend you listen to episodes 2-11 of season one as we will refer back to these topics, and they are vital in building the foundation knowledge required to move into the next phase of transformation.

Season two will cover the following points:  
1. Resource your programme team

2. Build your future support model


3. Manage business change

4. Solution design

5. Get the best out of suppliers

6. Target Operating Model – detailed design

7. Integrations & Reporting

8. Data

9. Testing, testing, testing


10. Governance & control

We will soon be releasing our white paper on the above points, which will be available for download via our website.

If you'd like to be notified of when this becomes available, please contact us via email, or register your interest via our website.

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Welcome to season two of the Underscore Transformation Podcast. This season focuses on the Build phase of transformation, and follows on directly from season one (Scoping). If you haven't already, we recommend you listen to episodes 2-11 of season one as we will refer back to these topics, and they are vital in building the foundation knowledge required to move into the next phase of transformation.

Season two will cover the following points:  
1. Resource your programme team

2. Build your future support model


3. Manage business change

4. Solution design

5. Get the best out of suppliers

6. Target Operating Model – detailed design

7. Integrations & Reporting

8. Data

9. Testing, testing, testing


10. Governance & control

We will soon be releasing our white paper on the above points, which will be available for download via our website.

If you'd like to be notified of when this becomes available, please contact us via email, or register your interest via our website.

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 27 Feb 2020 06:30:00 +0000 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 2651 Solution design often seems like the 'fun' bit of transformation. It's where you get to decide what your new systems or processes will actually do. But just as you wouldn’t, or at least shouldn’t, consider building a house without a set of plans or blueprints, it’s the same with business transformation - in order to reach your end point, you first need to agree where you’re going. In this week's podcast episode we delve into the vital, but complex issue of solution design, and discuss the common challenges and how to avoid these through careful planning and decision making. Solution design often seems like the 'fun' bit of transformation. It's where you get to decide what your new systems or processes will actually do. But just as you wouldn’t, or at least shouldn’t, consider building a house without a set of plans or bluepr Solution Design Checklist, Business transformation, Change management, Digital transformation, HR Transformation, Cloud, SAAS, HCM, ERP, No Manage Business Change 2 2 3 3 Manage Business Change full 2959c9f0-deb1-4d08-b3fe-dc80598ffc70 https://share.transistor.fm/s/c60921ed Welcome to season two of the Underscore Transformation Podcast. This season focuses on the Build phase of transformation, and follows on directly from season one (Scoping). If you haven't already, we recommend you listen to episodes 2-11 of season one as we will refer back to these topics, and they are vital in building the foundation knowledge required to move into the next phase of transformation.

Season two will cover the following points:  
1. Resource your programme team

2. Build your future support model


3. Manage business change

4. Solution design

5. Get the best out of suppliers

6. Target Operating Model – detailed design

7. Integrations & Reporting

8. Data

9. Testing, testing, testing


10. Governance & control

We will soon be releasing our white paper on the above points, which will be available for download via our website.

If you'd like to be notified of when this becomes available, please contact us via email, or register your interest via our website.

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Welcome to season two of the Underscore Transformation Podcast. This season focuses on the Build phase of transformation, and follows on directly from season one (Scoping). If you haven't already, we recommend you listen to episodes 2-11 of season one as we will refer back to these topics, and they are vital in building the foundation knowledge required to move into the next phase of transformation.

Season two will cover the following points:  
1. Resource your programme team

2. Build your future support model


3. Manage business change

4. Solution design

5. Get the best out of suppliers

6. Target Operating Model – detailed design

7. Integrations & Reporting

8. Data

9. Testing, testing, testing


10. Governance & control

We will soon be releasing our white paper on the above points, which will be available for download via our website.

If you'd like to be notified of when this becomes available, please contact us via email, or register your interest via our website.

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 20 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +0000 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 1507 Change is, by its nature, uncomfortable. Our initial reaction to hearing about any major change is rarely a wholly positive one, even when it will directly benefit us. In this episode, Jason and Joe look at the common pitfalls when managing change during a transformation programme, why it's essential to bring change expertise in early, and the practical steps you can take to ensure change embeds throughout your organisation. Change is, by its nature, uncomfortable. Our initial reaction to hearing about any major change is rarely a wholly positive one, even when it will directly benefit us. In this episode, Jason and Joe look at the common pitfalls when managing change duri Solution Design Checklist, Business transformation, Change management, Digital transformation, HR Transformation, Cloud, SAAS, HCM, ERP, No Build Your Support Model: Don't Wait, Do It Now 2 2 2 2 Build Your Support Model: Don't Wait, Do It Now full 54ec4d99-babd-4b84-939e-cc7942d696fc https://share.transistor.fm/s/1fffc884 Welcome to season two of the Underscore Transformation Podcast. This season focuses on the Build phase of transformation, and follows on directly from season one (Scoping). If you haven't already, we recommend you listen to episodes 2-11 of season one as we will refer back to these topics, and they are vital in building the foundation knowledge required to move into the next phase of transformation.

Season two will cover the following points:  
1. Resource your programme team

2. Build your future support model


3. Manage business change

4. Solution design


5. Get the best out of suppliers


6. Target Operating Model – detailed design


7. Integrations & Reporting


8. Data


9. Testing, testing, testing


10. Governance & control

We will soon be releasing our white paper on the above points, which will be available for download via our website.

If you'd like to be notified of when this becomes available, please contact us via email, or register your interest via our website.

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Welcome to season two of the Underscore Transformation Podcast. This season focuses on the Build phase of transformation, and follows on directly from season one (Scoping). If you haven't already, we recommend you listen to episodes 2-11 of season one as we will refer back to these topics, and they are vital in building the foundation knowledge required to move into the next phase of transformation.

Season two will cover the following points:  
1. Resource your programme team

2. Build your future support model


3. Manage business change

4. Solution design


5. Get the best out of suppliers


6. Target Operating Model – detailed design


7. Integrations & Reporting


8. Data


9. Testing, testing, testing


10. Governance & control

We will soon be releasing our white paper on the above points, which will be available for download via our website.

If you'd like to be notified of when this becomes available, please contact us via email, or register your interest via our website.

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 13 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +0000 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 2272 "Establishing a robust technology support model is something that gets overlooked in a surprising number of transformation programmes. And yet, your ability to deliver the business benefits promised by your business case rests on how effectively you construct your technology support model." In this episode, Jason and Joe discuss why a technology support model is so important to the overall success of your transformation efforts, how to build one, and the different capabilities required to ensure long-term success. "Establishing a robust technology support model is something that gets overlooked in a surprising number of transformation programmes. And yet, your ability to deliver the business benefits promised by your business case rests on how effectively you const Solution Design Checklist, Business transformation, Change management, Digital transformation, HR Transformation, Cloud, SAAS, HCM, ERP, No Resourcing Your Programme - Maybe You Should Hire The A-Team? 2 2 1 1 Resourcing Your Programme - Maybe You Should Hire The A-Team? full 2c03cf2a-40f4-49bf-a4cb-c0a83488b2bc https://share.transistor.fm/s/58d0a471 We identify 37 roles that are required to execute the change well”


Joe Ales

Welcome to season two of the Underscore Transformation Podcast. This season focuses on the Build phase of transformation, and follows on directly from season one (Scoping). If you haven't already, we recommend you listen to episodes 2-11 of season one as we will refer back to these topics, and they are vital in building the foundation knowledge required to move into the next phase of transformation.

Season two will cover the following points:  
1. Resource your programme team

2. Build your future support model

3. Manage business change

4. Solution design

5. Get the best out of suppliers

6. Target Operating Model – detailed design

7. Integrations & Reporting

8. Data

9. Testing, testing, testing

10. Governance & control

We will soon be releasing our white paper on the above points, which will be available for download via our website.

If you'd like to be notified of when this becomes available, please contact us via email, or register your interest via our website.

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> We identify 37 roles that are required to execute the change well”


Joe Ales

Welcome to season two of the Underscore Transformation Podcast. This season focuses on the Build phase of transformation, and follows on directly from season one (Scoping). If you haven't already, we recommend you listen to episodes 2-11 of season one as we will refer back to these topics, and they are vital in building the foundation knowledge required to move into the next phase of transformation.

Season two will cover the following points:  
1. Resource your programme team

2. Build your future support model

3. Manage business change

4. Solution design

5. Get the best out of suppliers

6. Target Operating Model – detailed design

7. Integrations & Reporting

8. Data

9. Testing, testing, testing

10. Governance & control

We will soon be releasing our white paper on the above points, which will be available for download via our website.

If you'd like to be notified of when this becomes available, please contact us via email, or register your interest via our website.

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 06 Feb 2020 07:00:00 +0000 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 2045 “You would assume that securing the best team to work on the transformation would be top of the to-do list. But frankly, on too many occasions, we see that resourcing the programme team is really rushed through." Jason West To kick off season two, which focuses on the Build phase of transformation, Jason and Joe discuss the absolutely critical step of properly resourcing your programme team. We delve into the need to balance internal knowledge of your organisation with external programme expertise, and discuss the 37 roles that every successful transformation team needs to fulfill. “You would assume that securing the best team to work on the transformation would be top of the to-do list. But frankly, on too many occasions, we see that resourcing the programme team is really rushed through." Jason West To kick off season two, whi Business transformation, Change management, Resourcing, Recruitment, Digital transformation, HR transformation, Cloud, SAAS, ERP, HCM, Business, Transformation No Business Transformation, a view from the top - Interview With Nick Ranier 1 1 13 13 Business Transformation, a view from the top - Interview With Nick Ranier full d3f4b4ed-46ee-4efa-b913-12fd24d92112 https://share.transistor.fm/s/cc306fdd Thank you to Nick Ranier for joining us to talk about his career in transformation with a particular focus on the scoping phase. Nick is a senior transformation leader with 25 years' transformation experience in a variety of sectors, including energy, defence, engineering and distribution. His career has been spent at the coalface of the digital revolution, leading transformation portfolio offices, introducing new technologies and solving challenging business problems. He was part of the small 'bunker team' that designed and set in motion the build of the UK’s two new Aircraft Carriers. He also led the team that developed and operated an award-winning business campus for a world-leading defence, security and aerospace business. He has been instrumental in delivering a raft of restructurings, business turnarounds and enterprise-wide digital transformations. 

If you'd like to learn more about Nick and the work he does in supporting highly complex and global businesses change initiatives, you can connect with him on LinkedIn.

This season of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thank you to Nick Ranier for joining us to talk about his career in transformation with a particular focus on the scoping phase. Nick is a senior transformation leader with 25 years' transformation experience in a variety of sectors, including energy, defence, engineering and distribution. His career has been spent at the coalface of the digital revolution, leading transformation portfolio offices, introducing new technologies and solving challenging business problems. He was part of the small 'bunker team' that designed and set in motion the build of the UK’s two new Aircraft Carriers. He also led the team that developed and operated an award-winning business campus for a world-leading defence, security and aerospace business. He has been instrumental in delivering a raft of restructurings, business turnarounds and enterprise-wide digital transformations. 

If you'd like to learn more about Nick and the work he does in supporting highly complex and global businesses change initiatives, you can connect with him on LinkedIn.

This season of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 09 Jan 2020 07:00:00 +0000 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 4915 “Transformation is, at its heart, a reconfiguration of power, so people are thinking ‘what does this mean for me?’” This week we are joined by another special guest, Nick Ranier, a senior transformation leader with extensive experience of enterprise wide transformation. Nick shares his experience of running transformation portfolios across a wide range of settings. He also shares his perspective of why culture, organisation and people are critical to the overall success of any transformation initiative. *Episode breakdown* Below is a brief overview of some of the topics that Jason and Nick discuss and at what point to find them in the podcast: - 01:20: Nick shares his background & experience - 03:46: Nick's experience transitioning from operational HR to transformation - 06:05: Sponsorship in transformation - what makes an effective sponsor (and what to avoid)? - 14:50: Problem definition - is this a problem we need to fix, and how do we define it? - 17:35: Benchmarking - where do you get the data? - 21:15: Gathering requirements - uncovering the business needs - 25:00: Capability requirements - what capabilities are needed to deliver change? - 28:10: Preparing for change - what's the minimum requirement? - 39:15: Methodology & Approach - the difference between projects, programmes & portfolios - 51:10: Vision, objectives and design principles - why things can go off track without a vision - 58:15: Governance and decision making - how do you structure the change? - 63:45: Solution design - moving from an operations to a solution architecture mindset - 71:02: Capability design - the need to build internal capability - 74:00: Business case - what are the most common mistakes and how to avoid them? “Transformation is, at its heart, a reconfiguration of power, so people are thinking ‘what does this mean for me?’” This week we are joined by another special guest, Nick Ranier, a senior transformation leader with extensive experience of enterprise wide Solution Design Checklist, Business transformation, Change management, Digital transformation, HR Transformation, Cloud, SAAS, HCM, ERP, No Finance Transformation - interview with Shafique Barabhuiya 1 1 12 12 Finance Transformation - interview with Shafique Barabhuiya full 6770cff7-7ae9-42b2-aa82-d9f7d709a683 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e4de5eff Thank you to Shafique Barabhuiya for joining us to talk about transformation in finance. If you'd like to learn more about Shafique and the work he does in supporting finance functions through change, you can connect with him on LinkedIn.

This season of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thank you to Shafique Barabhuiya for joining us to talk about transformation in finance. If you'd like to learn more about Shafique and the work he does in supporting finance functions through change, you can connect with him on LinkedIn.

This season of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 12 Dec 2019 07:00:00 +0000 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 3212 "Ultimately, success is not a successful technical go-live, it is a successful adoption by the business of said processes and technology". In this very special episode, we are joined by Shafique Barabhuiya to hear how the 10 points of the Scoping Checklist apply within the finance function, and explore the key issues that always need to be addressed, no matter which part of the business you are seeking to transform. "Ultimately, success is not a successful technical go-live, it is a successful adoption by the business of said processes and technology". In this very special episode, we are joined by Shafique Barabhuiya to hear how the 10 points of the Scoping Checklis Finance transformation, change management, management consultancy, business transformation, Finance No The Business Case for Transformation 1 1 11 11 The Business Case for Transformation full 70083c93-db8c-41e8-ace9-c0faaa52f5c4 https://share.transistor.fm/s/94fc0d67 This season of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> This season of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 05 Dec 2019 07:00:00 +0000 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 1387 Alongside a carefully constructed solution design, a robust business case is one of the most important outputs from the scoping phase. It's where the rubber meets the road. In this episode, Jason and Joe delve into the core components of a well put together business case, looking at the practicalities as well as the strategic side of this task. Listen in as they discuss why a business case should always be led by the sponsor (with support and input from finance), and why a good transformation business case is as much about telling a compelling story as it is about number crunching. Alongside a carefully constructed solution design, a robust business case is one of the most important outputs from the scoping phase. It's where the rubber meets the road. In this episode, Jason and Joe delve into the core components of a well put to Solution Design Checklist, Business transformation, Change management, Digital transformation, HR Transformation, Cloud, SAAS, HCM, ERP, No Solution Design 1 1 10 10 Solution Design full cf36b259-0a8e-4401-8230-9106b57e011a https://share.transistor.fm/s/6f30502d This season of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> This season of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 28 Nov 2019 07:00:00 +0000 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 1684 Designing new systems, processes and operating models requires the ability to imagine a future state unencumbered by the present day. The solutions your teams design need to deliver your vision, strategic objectives and business case benefits, all within the constraints of your agreed design principles. In this week's episode, Jason and Joe discuss the important concept of solution design capability, and why individuals and teams need to have high levels of collaboration, active listening, influencing, resilience and empathy in order to reach the best solution. They also explore why a well-constructed Target Operating Model is a prerequisite to successful functional transformation. Designing new systems, processes and operating models requires the ability to imagine a future state unencumbered by the present day. The solutions your teams design need to deliver your vision, strategic objectives and business case benefits, all within Business Transformation, Change Management, Design Thinking, Target Operating Model, Data & System Architecture, No Building capability for successful Business Transformation 1 1 9 9 Building capability for successful Business Transformation full e4da4145-0fb6-494d-ba95-aa6c2908647e https://share.transistor.fm/s/44679c4b During this episode we reference the competency model of Programme Managers, Managing Successful Programmes (MSP) by Axelos. For more information on the products and services provided by Axelos, please visit their website.

Underscore is an accredited training provider for MSP and  Prince2 (project management training), along with other capabilities mentioned in the episode, such as Emotional Intelligence, Mental Toughness, and Stakeholder Engagement.

This season of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> During this episode we reference the competency model of Programme Managers, Managing Successful Programmes (MSP) by Axelos. For more information on the products and services provided by Axelos, please visit their website.

Underscore is an accredited training provider for MSP and  Prince2 (project management training), along with other capabilities mentioned in the episode, such as Emotional Intelligence, Mental Toughness, and Stakeholder Engagement.

This season of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 21 Nov 2019 07:00:00 +0000 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 1264 Assuming that you are adopting a programme or portfolio approach to transformation, it’s important that the team you put in place have the necessary skills and experience. A successful programme manager will have a different skillset, mindset and approach to a successful project manager. In this episode, Jason and Joe deep dive into the skills and competencies that a programme team needs to possess in order to ensure a successful transformation. Assuming that you are adopting a programme or portfolio approach to transformation, it’s important that the team you put in place have the necessary skills and experience. A successful programme manager will have a different skillset, mindset and approach Business Transformation Podcast, Change Management, Program Management, Business Project Managers, Skillset, Risk and Issues, No Business Transformation Methodology and Approach 1 1 8 8 Business Transformation Methodology and Approach full 667e72a3-a305-49b9-a9d0-f4c2f5534522 https://share.transistor.fm/s/53d888bf During this episode we include definitions of Project, Programme and Portfolio Management based on those given by Axelos (the custodians of Prince2, MSP, ITIL, P3M3 and more). Underscore is an accredited training provider for Prince2, and MSP. For more information on the products and services provided by Axelos, please visit their website.

This season of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> During this episode we include definitions of Project, Programme and Portfolio Management based on those given by Axelos (the custodians of Prince2, MSP, ITIL, P3M3 and more). Underscore is an accredited training provider for Prince2, and MSP. For more information on the products and services provided by Axelos, please visit their website.

This season of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 14 Nov 2019 07:00:00 +0000 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 972 A functional transformation can either be defined as a programme or a portfolio depending on the scope and scale of the change required and whether you are transforming one or multiple functions. This seemingly esoteric point matters when coming to choose the best methodology to use and when building your transformation organisation and team. In this episode, Jason and Joe explore the differences between a project, programme and a portfolio, and why it's essential to define your transformation initiative in the right way to achieve the best outcomes. They also discuss the impact this has on issues such as resourcing, and decision making. A functional transformation can either be defined as a programme or a portfolio depending on the scope and scale of the change required and whether you are transforming one or multiple functions. This seemingly esoteric point matters when coming to choose Solution Design Checklist, Business transformation, Change management, Digital transformation, HR Transformation, Cloud, SAAS, HCM, ERP, No Governing Business Transformation 1 1 7 7 Governing Business Transformation full 911f8fa4-cdfd-4a7a-976a-6fefacf4adad https://share.transistor.fm/s/7a058e16 This season of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> This season of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 07 Nov 2019 07:00:00 +0000 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 1724 The question of who makes decisions is often a vexed one in transformation programmes that get into trouble. A clearly defined governance structure, built to solve complex problems and manage unforeseen risks, is a pre-requisite for successful business transformation. Unpacking exactly what this means, and how best to make decisions with imperfect information, quickly and at scale, is the subject of this week's conversation. The question of who makes decisions is often a vexed one in transformation programmes that get into trouble. A clearly defined governance structure, built to solve complex problems and manage unforeseen risks, is a pre-requisite for successful business tr Business Transformation, Program Governance, Executive Steering Committee, Project Board, Design Authority, Scoping No Vision, Objectives and Design Principles 1 1 6 6 Vision, Objectives and Design Principles full 0476ba20-733c-44fe-8c8e-a0ff918aefa4 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b6e9c894 This season of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> This season of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 31 Oct 2019 07:00:00 +0000 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 1029 So many aspects of functional transformation are unknown and unknowable when you begin, putting you deep into the territory of unknown unknowns. To combat the uncertainty inherent in transformation programmes, your team need clear, simple guidance to help inform their design decisions. In this week's episode Jason and Joe discuss the importance of having clearly defined vision, objectives and design principles, and how they will help your team make the best possible design decisions that will ultimately get you to your destination. So many aspects of functional transformation are unknown and unknowable when you begin, putting you deep into the territory of unknown unknowns. To combat the uncertainty inherent in transformation programmes, your team need clear, simple guidance to help Business Transformation, Vision, Strategic Objectives, Design Principles, Solution Design, No Preparing your Business for Transformational Change 1 1 5 5 Preparing your Business for Transformational Change full fce5e011-6e51-4b89-b283-764add9d9651 https://share.transistor.fm/s/ef5f66a8 This season of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> This season of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 24 Oct 2019 07:00:00 +0100 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 1007 In too many transformation programmes, change management only gets thought about just before new systems and processes are about to go live, but to deliver a successful outcome, to change the culture, you have to engage people in the change process from the very start. In this week's episode, Jason and Joe discuss some of the common mistakes made when delivering change, how change management is about a lot more than communications and training, and when and who to engage in the transformation process. We also share our top tips on how to plan, deliver and embed lasting business change. In too many transformation programmes, change management only gets thought about just before new systems and processes are about to go live, but to deliver a successful outcome, to change the culture, you have to engage people in the change process from t Change Management, Scoping, Communications, Business Transformation, Training, No Aligning People, Processes and Technology to achieve successful Business Change 1 1 4 4 Aligning People, Processes and Technology to achieve successful Business Change full 9f8cb815-cea4-479c-80fc-9c76cf5058c0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/8dc75d13 This season of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> This season of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, project resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 17 Oct 2019 07:00:00 +0100 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 1297 Transformation Initiatives require changes to people, processes and systems. But it can be all too easy to get fixated on technology, especially if it’s new, shiny and expensive. This week Joe and Jason discuss the importance of collecting a broad range of ‘capability requirements’ that describe the culture that we seek to build, how people will work in the future, and the processes and systems they will use to deliver to their customers. We discuss the benefits of engaging multi-functional teams in gathering requirements, and consider the decisions you need to make about accepting requirements into scope. Not all requirements are equal, or even valid. Capability requirements should be the living, breathing bedrock of your transformation and used throughout design, testing and eventually to measure the benefits you’ve delivered. It can be all too easy to easy for your requirements documents to get forgotten and gather dust in a drawer. For more on this and other practical hints and tips, please take a listen. Transformation Initiatives require changes to people, processes and systems. But it can be all too easy to get fixated on technology, especially if it’s new, shiny and expensive. This week Joe and Jason discuss the importance of collecting a broad ran Solution Design Checklist, Business transformation, Change management, Digital transformation, HR Transformation, Cloud, SAAS, HCM, ERP, No The Problem with Business Transformation 1 1 3 3 The Problem with Business Transformation full d96ffe8d-94c2-413b-ab4d-d566949c261d https://share.transistor.fm/s/17de583e Season One of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Season One of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 10 Oct 2019 07:00:00 +0100 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 1395 Business transformation initiatives often start due to external events, a change in the senior leadership team, a merger, an acquisition, or changes in regulation. But that only describes why we need to change, not what needs to change. This week Jason and Joe discuss the importance of defining the problem that you're seeking to address before rushing headlong into solution design. What do our customers believe needs to change? What’s important to them? How much effort do we attribute to our customers’ priorities? Just how effective and efficient are we compared to other organisations? These can be deeply uncomfortable questions that you simply have to ask yourself, if you want your transformation programme to be a success. Failing to do so can mean spending millions to fix the wrong problem. Take a listen to find out more. Business transformation initiatives often start due to external events, a change in the senior leadership team, a merger, an acquisition, or changes in regulation. But that only describes why we need to change, not what needs to change. This week Jaso Solution Design Checklist, Business transformation, Change management, Digital transformation, HR Transformation, Cloud, SAAS, HCM, ERP, No Programme Sponsorship 1 1 2 2 Programme Sponsorship full bdeb88a8-ffb3-46df-ac31-ac0eaeb1bdd0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e56ce3ce This season of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> This season of the Underscore Transformation Podcast is based on our recent white paper covering the first stage of transformation: Scoping. The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, resourcing, and talent development. 

This episode was recorded and produced by Matt Gore of icon business media.

]]> Thu, 03 Oct 2019 07:00:00 +0100 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 858 Following on from our roundtable debate in Episode one, in this episode Jason and Joe discuss the essential role of programme sponsorship in more depth. Discover the knowledge, skills, experience and capabilities a sponsor needs to have to deliver a successful transformation, and how to connect people, business strategy and programme objectives for maximum impact. Jason and Joe also share their top tips for programme sponsors new to the role, looking at what you need to consider to set yourself up for success. Following on from our roundtable debate in Episode one, in this episode Jason and Joe discuss the essential role of programme sponsorship in more depth. Discover the knowledge, skills, experience and capabilities a sponsor needs to have to deliver a succe Solution Design Checklist, Business transformation, Change management, Digital transformation, HR Transformation, Cloud, SAAS, HCM, ERP, No 10 steps to scoping a successful business transformation – the debate 1 1 1 1 10 steps to scoping a successful business transformation – the debate full 8af16a66-7aa8-4715-b0e8-63aa576fa7ed https://share.transistor.fm/s/5447613f Thank you to our guests in this episode:

  • Andy Welch, Portfolio Director – LinkedIn
  • Kathryn Marshall, Chief HR Officer – LinkedIn 
  • Mark Harrison, Change and Delivery Director – LinkedIn 
  • Richard Phelps, Management Consultant – LinkedIn
  • Sharon Bridgland-Gough, Chief HR Officer 
  • Mark Chillingworth kindly hosted the discussion - LinkedIn


The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms or find us on LinkedIn

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, resourcing, and talent development. 

We’d like to thank Icon Business Media and Vicky Matthers Photography for supporting the event. 

]]> Thank you to our guests in this episode:

  • Andy Welch, Portfolio Director – LinkedIn
  • Kathryn Marshall, Chief HR Officer – LinkedIn 
  • Mark Harrison, Change and Delivery Director – LinkedIn 
  • Richard Phelps, Management Consultant – LinkedIn
  • Sharon Bridgland-Gough, Chief HR Officer 
  • Mark Chillingworth kindly hosted the discussion - LinkedIn


The 10 Points covered in the Scoping Checklist are:

1. Programme sponsorship
2. Problem definition
3. Preparing for change
4. Requirements gathering
5. Vision, objectives and design principles
6. Governance and decision making
7. Methodology and approach
8. Programme management capability
9. Solution design capability
10. Business case

We’re always looking for ways to improve our content and would love to hear your feedback. If you would like to join the conversation, please contact Jason West to join our WhatsApp group.

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms, find us on LinkedIn, or get in touch via email at enquiries@underscore-group.com

Follow us on social media: @UnderscoreComms or find us on LinkedIn

Visit our website to find more content on transformation, resourcing, and talent development. 

We’d like to thank Icon Business Media and Vicky Matthers Photography for supporting the event. 

]]> Thu, 26 Sep 2019 07:00:00 +0100 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 4000 In our first episode of the Underscore Transformation podcast, we invite you into our recent live roundtable debate, where Joe and Jason are joined by special guests to discuss the 10 critical success factors in scoping a transformation programme. Hear real world, practical advice from programme sponsors and transformation practitioners on this too often overlooked stage of business transformation. In our first episode of the Underscore Transformation podcast, we invite you into our recent live roundtable debate, where Joe and Jason are joined by special guests to discuss the 10 critical success factors in scoping a transformation programme. Hear r Solution Design Checklist, Business transformation, Change management, Digital transformation, HR Transformation, Cloud, SAAS, HCM, ERP, No Underscore Transformation Season One - Trailer 1 1 1 1 Underscore Transformation Season One - Trailer trailer 2e248b97-5a95-4552-891a-be9d144070d3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f7ef0f21 Underscore Transformation is a podcast dedicated to uncovering the mystery and mystique that surrounds business transformation. Each week, Underscore's co-founders, Jason West and Joe Ales, will discuss the common challenges and pitfalls you can expect to find if you are leading, managing or simply experiencing business transformation. More importantly, we will be joined by some of the greatest minds in business transformation to find out what can be done to avoid them. Each season is based on a different stage of the transformation process. In season one, we'll be focusing on the Scoping phase - looking at the 10 critical success factors to scoping a successful transformation programme (for more information, please download our whitepaper the Transformation Scoping Checklist). Future seasons will explore the Build, Transition and Sustain phases. 

]]> Underscore Transformation is a podcast dedicated to uncovering the mystery and mystique that surrounds business transformation. Each week, Underscore's co-founders, Jason West and Joe Ales, will discuss the common challenges and pitfalls you can expect to find if you are leading, managing or simply experiencing business transformation. More importantly, we will be joined by some of the greatest minds in business transformation to find out what can be done to avoid them. Each season is based on a different stage of the transformation process. In season one, we'll be focusing on the Scoping phase - looking at the 10 critical success factors to scoping a successful transformation programme (for more information, please download our whitepaper the Transformation Scoping Checklist). Future seasons will explore the Build, Transition and Sustain phases. 

]]> Mon, 09 Sep 2019 17:00:00 +0100 Jason West & Joe Ales Jason West & Joe Ales 206 Welcome to Underscore Transformation, your practical guide to successful business change. Each week, join Underscore co-founders Joe Ales and Jason West as they discuss the critical elements of successful business transformation Welcome to Underscore Transformation, your practical guide to successful business change. Each week, join Underscore co-founders Joe Ales and Jason West as they discuss the critical elements of successful business transformation Solution Design Checklist, Business transformation, Change management, Digital transformation, HR Transformation, Cloud, SAAS, HCM, ERP, No