Category: IT project disputes

Speaking of never-ending stories… »

…this IT project out of Sydney appears to fit the bill:
Ten years after it was first announced and almost $100 million later, Sydney is no closer to a cashless public transport ticketing system after the NSW Government was forced to terminate its contract for the troubled Tcard.
Transport Minister John Watkins announced the contract with Integrated [...]

Key risk indicators in large-scale software projects (a brief discussion) »

A number of times over the past 13 years I have been asked to review an existing (and usually large-scale) IT project, figure out where it stands, and make recommendations as to how to get it back on track. I have found that a small number of questions will usually get me to the heart [...]

Pattern: Lost Champion/Buyer’s Remorse »

This is a new pattern, one not explicitly called out in my original white paper (though hinted at in a few places).
Summary: A client starts a large IT project that involves one or more outside firms (consultants, vendors, developers, manufacturers). Within the client organization, a champion arises (or is appointed) for this project. The project [...]

Systems Failure Litigation: Lessons Learned »

[Adapted from Patterns in IT Litigation: Systems Failure (1976-2000)]
Having reviewed these cases and the patterns they exhibit, some practical suggestions come to mind.

Pattern: Unintended Consequences »

[Adapted from Patterns in IT Litigation: Systems Failure (1976-2000)]
Summary: The manufacturer makes some change in the functionality or configuration of the system, which is already in use. The change results in unpleasant or unintended consequences for one or more clients.