ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the reasons why IT projects go wrong and what people can do about it. The CHAOS Manifesto produced by the Standish Group: a survey of 70,000 specifically focused on why IT projects go wrong and the most comprehensive source of data. The findings of a survey of executive's views on business transformation conducted by Cap Gemini, including a section entitled Reasons for transformation success and failure. The more important than specific questions is taking on the mindset, internalising it and behaving that way throughout the project. Stepping up to the plate and taking responsibility for project outcome is the single most important piece of advice. The most common cause of IT project failure is poor business leadership. The project sponsor has to step up to plate and take responsibility for project outcome. If project sponsor does not have sufficient time to devote to leading the project, it is better to delegate authority to someone else who can.
