As service delivery leaders, we're constantly bombarded with the next big thing, the shiny new tool promising to revolutionize our workflows. AI agents are the latest to enter the fray, and it's natural to wonder: are they truly reshaping software, or are we just caught in a whirlwind of hype? Let’s cut through the noise and explore how AI agents might actually impact your project workflows and if they will help improve your team's utilization rate. First, let’s define our te

Ever feel like your steering group meetings are more like meandering discussions than decisive action? You're not alone. Many service delivery leaders struggle with steering groups that lack focus, leading to projects that drift off course and miss their targets. The secret to a high-performing steering group lies in well-defined Terms of Reference (ToR). Think of it as the steering group's operating manual - it sets the stage for effective decision-making and keeps everyone

The rise of AI has sparked both excitement and trepidation in the consulting world. Are robots coming for our jobs? Will clients start relying on algorithms instead of experienced consultants? The reality is far more nuanced, and frankly, more exciting. AI isn't about replacing consultants; it's about augmenting our capabilities, protecting our client relationships, and unlocking new avenues for growth. So, how do you, as a seasoned services lead, navigate this evolution and

The cloud was supposed to solve everything, right? Infinite scalability, reduced infrastructure costs, and access from anywhere. For many businesses, especially those of us in professional services, it has been a massive leap forward. But, like any powerful tool, the cloud isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. There's a growing trend that service delivery leaders need to be aware of: "compute everywhere." It challenges the assumption that the cloud is always the best, or even

Are you tired of hearing that your project management needs a maturity makeover? I get it. Spending big bucks on consultants and complex maturity models feels like overkill, especially when you just want to get projects delivered on time and within budget. The good news is, you don't need to break the bank to boost your PM game. With a few tweaks and by leveraging tools you likely already have, you can drive significant improvements in project consistency, make smarter decisi

Let’s face it, trying to manage your professional services organization with generic tools is like trying to cut a steak with a butter knife – you might eventually get the job done, but it’s going to be messy and inefficient. As a VP of Professional Services, you’re constantly juggling resources, projects, and deadlines, and you need the right tools to keep everything running smoothly. While spreadsheets and basic project management software might seem like a cost-effective s

Ever feel like your projects are sailing into a storm without a weather forecast? As a seasoned consultant, I've seen countless projects derailed by risks that could have been avoided with a proactive approach. Project risk management isn't just about avoiding disasters; it's about identifying opportunities to improve project outcomes and increase profitability. Let's dive into some practical tips to help you navigate those choppy waters and ensure successful project delivery

Alright, let's talk about AI. Everyone's buzzing about it, promising massive ROI and a utopian future for professional services. But after 30 years in this business, I've learned to be a bit skeptical of shiny new toys. The truth is, simply throwing AI at your existing workflows isn't going to magically solve your problems. In fact, it might even make things worse if you don't get the foundations right. The recent discussions coming out of Davos echo this sentiment. Sure, AI

The rise of artificial intelligence is transforming professional services, offering incredible opportunities for efficiency and innovation. But beneath the surface lies a complex web of geopolitical considerations that can impact your data security, compliance, and ultimately, your bottom line. As a services lead, understanding these nuances is no longer optional; it's essential for responsible and resilient operations. Many services leaders are so focused on deploying AI tha

Okay, let's dive into a bit of a controversial idea, especially in today's marketing-obsessed world. We're constantly bombarded with advice on generating leads, building funnels, and optimizing conversion rates. But what if I told you that focusing solely on lead generation is like putting a band-aid on a much deeper wound? What if, for professional services, the key to sustainable growth lies not just in acquiring new clients, but in nurturing trust and deepening relationsh