Homeinsightsthe crucial role of local support in getting the most out of a project portfolio management tool
governance & service management

the crucial role of local support in getting the most out of a project portfolio management tool

Habib Lopez, Head of Barcelona office & Alain Geerts, Head of Governance & Service Management · October 17, 2023

In an increasingly globalised world, companies use project portfolio management tools to monitor and manage their IT investments. However, to get the most out of these tools, local support is often necessary. In this article, we explain why.

understanding local contexts

Every country, every market has its specificities. Whether local regulations, cultural differences, logistical constraints or economic conditions, each local context presents unique challenges and opportunities. Local support close to the customer helps to understand these specificities and integrate them effectively into a project portfolio management tool, thus ensuring successful implementation and use.

training and technical assistance

Implementing a project portfolio management tool requires extensive training for end-users. Local support provides training tailored to the specific needs of users in their local context. In addition, in case of technical problems, local support provides fast and efficient assistance, minimising downtime and ensuring continuous use of the tool.

adaptation to time zones

In a global context, collaboration between different regions can be hampered by time zone differences. Local support offers real-time assistance to users in their own time zone and according to their working habits, thus improving efficiency and productivity.

communication in the local language

Many project managers and users of portfolio management tools are more comfortable with their native language, especially when it comes to understanding, adapting, and mastering strategic tools. Local support provides the necessary support and assistance in the local language, eliminating language barriers and facilitating a clear understanding of the portfolio management tool’s functionalities and processes.

stakeholder management

Finally, the proximity of local support plays a key role in managing the client’s local stakeholders. Local support helps to effectively communicate the importance and benefits of the portfolio management tool, gather feedback, and manage expectations, thus contributing to the successful adoption of the tool.

A trusted partner, close to you, who accompanies you locally with a long-term commitment, is crucial in the adoption, optimisation, and success of a project portfolio management tool. It offers a valuable understanding of your context, provides adequate training and technical assistance, adapts to your working hours, communicates in your language, and efficiently manages your stakeholders. While the use of portfolio management tools is often part of a global initiative, their success often depends on strong local support.

The authors of this insight are Habib Lopez – Head of Barcelona office and Alain Geerts – Head of Governance & Service Management at Itecor.

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