140 • Creative, Ecient, and Eective Project Management
Reengineering
is is an approach that seeks to come up with a more ecient and eec-
tive process than currently exists. It involves discarding an old process
and replacing it with a new one. In theory, it enables breakthrough results
in performance.
Keep in mind the following when reengineering:
1. Document the as-is process. en, collect as much data and infor-
mation as necessary about the existing process. is data and
information will serve as a baseline to compare how the new pro-
cess enhances eciency and eectiveness. Also, look for non-value-
added areas in an existing process, such as delays, which may reveal
opportunities to improve performance.
2. Document the to-be process. en compare the as-is and to-be
processes to ensure actual capture of the improvements as a result
of the latter. e to-be processes must demonstrate improvements
that replace the status quo of doing business. Keep in mind that
signicant changes in improvement to warrant the new to-be pro-
cess will arise. Here is where creativity applies. Using other tools
and techniques enables coming up with highly creative, innovative
solutions.
3. Conduct the implementation of the to-be process. Expect resistance
from some individuals and organizations threatened by the loss of
the as-is process. ey have probably invested considerable time
and eort into building and sustaining the as-is process, which, if
it went away, would also threaten them. Oen individuals and orga-
nizations may exhibit cautionary acceptance, contingent upon the
benets gained by the to-be process.
4. During the implementation of the to-be process, expect to make
revisions along the way. Reality will necessitate revisions to the new
process as the need to adapt arises. ese revisions will be likely to
lessen the advantages of the to-be process. Be cognizant of these
impacts to address concerns by people who subscribe to the as-is
process.
Technically, reengineering is not a creativity technique. However, it pro-
vides the opportunity to use several techniques to identify and implement
creative ideas that can dramatically change the status quo.
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Some ways to
use reengineering on a project include discarding inecient or ineective: