6 reasons application management strategy is changing

Application management strategy is continuing to evolve along with new technologies. Historically, Application Management Services (AMS) had a bit of a false expectation that it was static component of a delivery model that was meant to keep the lights on for the applications, fix any bugs that pop up in the systems, or and work the occasional upgrade.  As we have seen throughout the market as well as our own delivery, application management is demanding a strategic approach, and namely for these six reasons:

1. Speed
   The speed at which applications and human resources is expected to move in the current environment is not slowing down and only expected to increase. Being proactive and conducting proper planning are now requirements for being able to do the baseline of keeping applications stable and current. Additionally, keeping up with new features and functionality helps you get the most out of your investment.
2. Size
   With the move to the Cloud, the annual volume of new application features, functionality, and product enhancements is at a level we have not previously seen. To ensure no impact to your current application environment, it’s critical to proactively manage software releases and their adoption. You’re likely already paying for these with your licenses.
3. Mergers and acquisitions
   The ever changing landscape of the business economy has posed a challenge for HR and Finance.  A large volume of global companies are merging and being acquired on a daily basis, impacting your HR and Financial systems. Your application management processes need to be agile and nimble to be able to best react to these changes. 
4. End user expectations 
   End users expect to have the same experience with their company’s HR and Financial applications as they do when interacting with commercial applications. As a result, you should focus on making the applications easy to use as well as implementing new features.
5. Executive and stakeholder expectations
   After a move to the Cloud and investment in a new ERP, executives and key stakeholders are expecting to see the full realization of the new application and its features. No longer can you hang your hat on just having an error free system, you must focus on providing data insights, improving business process cycle times, and full adoption of the system.
6. Expectation of automation and analytics
   AI and Analytics are now non-negotiable application features in today’s technology landscape.  What this means to HR and HRIT is that the company’s most important database (employee data) needs to walk the talk.  Partnering with organizations that can help you grow your AI and Analytics strategy will be a key to delivering on promises to your stakeholders (reduced cost, process improvements, actionable data driven insights).