Evolving from Bi-Modal to Tri-Modal Initiative Delivery: A Step Towards Greater Flexibility and Success

In the ever-evolving landscape of project and program management, adaptability and predictability are crucial for success. Many organizations have embraced Bi-Modal delivery as a strategy to balance stability and agility. However, as the complexities of projects increase and the need for more tailored approaches becomes evident, a shift from Bi-Modal to Tri-Modal Delivery considering.

Understanding Bi-Modal IT: A Quick Recap

Bi-Modal delivery, popularized by Gartner, divides delivery practices into two distinct modes:

1. Mode 1: Focuses on stability and efficiency, utilizing traditional, linear methodologies.
2. Mode 2: Emphasizes agility and innovation, often employing Agile and iterative processes.

This dual approach has served many organizations well by allowing them to maintain reliable operations while simultaneously fostering innovation. However, it can sometimes fall short in addressing the diverse needs of complex initiatives.

Introducing Tri-Modal Delivery: Adding a Third Dimension

Tri-Modal Delivery builds on the foundation of Bi-Modal IT by introducing a third mode: Productised Delivery. This approach acknowledges that not all initiatives fit neatly into the categories of traditional or agile methodologies. By adding Productised Delivery into the mix, organizations can better cater to varied project requirements.

The Three Modes:

1. Predictive Delivery: Focuses on meticulous planning and detailed forecasting, perfect for projects with clear objectives and low uncertainty.
2. Adaptive Delivery: Emphasizes flexibility and responsiveness, suited for environments with high uncertainty and rapidly changing requirements.
3. Productised Delivery: This mode shifts the focus from stop-start projects to the enduring delivery of products and their continuous enhancements. By utilizing frameworks such as DevOps, Scaled Agile, and Lean, Productised Delivery ensures that products are continuously improved and adapted to meet evolving needs.

The Benefits of Tri-Modal Delivery

Transitioning to Tri-Modal Delivery offers several key advantages:

1. Enhanced Flexibility: With three distinct delivery modes, organizations can tailor their approach to the specific needs of each initiative. This flexibility ensures that they are managed in the most efficient and effective manner possible.

2. Improved Resource Allocation: By clearly defining the nature of each initiative, resources can be allocated more effectively.

3. Greater Scalability: Tri-Modal Delivery provides a scalable framework that can grow with the organization. As new challenges and opportunities arise, the ability to seamlessly integrate different delivery modes becomes a significant asset.

4. Increased Agility: Adaptive Delivery and Productised Delivery, empowers organizations to pivot and respond to changes quickly. This agility is crucial in today’s fast-paced business environment, where the ability to adapt can be a key competitive advantage.

5. Enduring Value Creation: Productised Delivery focuses on the continuous enhancement of products, ensuring that they evolve with market needs and technological advancements. This ongoing improvement cycle drives long-term value for the organization and its customers.

Implementing Tri-Modal Delivery: Practical Steps

Transitioning from Bi-Modal to Tri-Modal Delivery involves several strategic steps:

1. Assess Current Practices: Evaluate your delivery practices to identify strengths and gaps. Determine where Productised Delivery can be integrated to enhance existing practices.

2. Look at End-to-End Value Streams: Examine the end-to-end value streams across the organization to assess which are the products and services that would benefit from being funded as ongoing products/services rather than separate operations and project funding. This helps in establishing a continuous delivery model that aligns with long-term business goals.

3. Educate and Train Teams: Ensure that teams understand the principles and benefits of Tri-Modal Delivery. Provide training to help them adapt to new processes and methodologies.

4. Pilot and Iterate: Start with a pilot project to test the Tri-Modal approach. Gather feedback and make necessary adjustments before rolling out the new framework across the organization.

5. Monitor and Optimize: Continuously monitor the performance of each delivery mode. Use metrics and feedback to optimize processes and ensure that each mode is delivering the expected results.

Conclusion

The transition from Bi-Modal to Tri-Modal Delivery represents a significant step forward in project and program management. By incorporating Predictive, Adaptive, and Productised Delivery modes, organizations can achieve greater flexibility, improved resource allocation, and enhanced agility. This holistic approach not only addresses the diverse needs of modern initiatives but also positions organizations for sustained success in an ever-changing business landscape.

As we continue to navigate the complexities of project delivery, embracing a Tri-Modal framework will be key to driving innovation, efficiency, and excellence. Let’s connect and explore how Tri-Modal Delivery can transform your organization’s approach to initiative delivery!