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Debenhams boosts IT success with project management software
CA software used to track 60 change programmes
By Computerworld UK reporter | Published 10:17, 03 February 09
Debenhams is using project management software from CA in a bid to slash costs and reduce wasted resources on "unprofitable or ineffective projects".
The retail chain has implemented CA’s Clarity Project & Portfolio Manager (PPM), to boost the success rate of its IT projects and track 60 separate change programmes across the company.
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Debenhams' project management office has 140 developers, analysts and technical support staff and the new software helps the management team create budgets and forecast up to 14 months in the future.
The retailer also reports significant reductions in project management administration costs as a result of the software implementation, which has freed up resources to focus on which projects are succeeding and which are at risk.
As a result IT-project success rates have gone up as ineffective projects have been identified, allowing Debenhams to focus staff and resources on profitable projects.
The retail store is currently using Clarity PPM for updates its HR system, some compliance-driven updates and the development of a new order-fulfilment system for its website.
The software was first applied to timesheets, project reporting and logging issues before being harnessed to boost reporting capabilities for budgeting and forecasting.
Dominic Nash, business systems controller at Debenhams, said: “Technology has an important role in ensuring accuracy, efficiency and accountability within the business.
“CA Clarity PPM’s reporting capabilities provide us with a more accurate view of resource utilisation and activities. This means we can identify dud projects earlier in a project lifecycle to save resources and money.”
CA's UK and Ireland area manager Chris Miller added: “During the current economic climate, the key to making informed business decisions is having quicker access to accurate information. Debenhams now enjoys greater visibility and efficiency across the entire organisation – and by investing in IT management, has increased the capacity to deliver effective IT projects.”
