APM - Application Portfolio Management
Every company has a mix of applications in their portfolio. Some of these will come from historical mergers or acquisitions, some will have been bought in to solve a particular issue arising from a Data Management challenge. Often these applications are wrongly or underused, and often, increased business value can be attained from mere assessment and adjustment of the applications or the way in which they are used. However, sometimes a complete overhaul of existing systems may be appropriate to ensure that the business is getting the best possible use and subsequent value from their portfolio.
Define
As an independent consultancy, Paras has no affiliation with any particular application, but through long experience in the E&P industry, has a wide and up-to-date knowledge of many of the applications available. Paras consultants look at some of the following questions when approaching a management project of this type:
- Core applications – is the philosophy to go for best in class or integrated suites?
- Niche applications – should these integrate with Core or can you manage the data exchange yourself?
- What needs to share information?
- How do you decide which applications should be used?
Develop
Through a detailed appraisal process, Paras consultants will ensure that the company understands their long term aims, and how their portfolio of applications will enable that. Paras consultants will work with all levels of the business, ensuring buy-in from stakeholders and users alike, and project manage stage-gated pilot schemes in smaller units before progressing to roll-out to the rest of the company. As with all projects, the aim is to enable the company to work independently, so our consultants will work alongside existing personnel, providing training and managing any change.
Deliver
A well organised and fully utilised application portfolio can deliver tangible benefits, as well as a sustainable solution to many Data Management issues.