National Digital Ecosystem

You may not see it, but there’s a lot is happening behind the scenes

At times, it may appear that not a lot is happening. However, that does not mean that work is not progressing.

As you can imagine, across a federated organisation like Scouts Australia, there are many stakeholders – as well as many passionate members who want to see positive change. This means there is a significant amount of consultation and collaboration required.

At the same time, the all-important technical work continues in the background. 

Before significant changes can be made, everything needs to be reviewed, agreed to by the relevant stakeholders, and endorsed by the National Operations Committee (NOC) and National Executive Committee (NEC). We also need to keep members informed as much as possible throughout the process.

Like any organisation, Scouts Australia has finite resources – both people and funding. Managing and prioritising those resources and funds and inevitably impacts timelines and what we are able to communicate at different stages.

When major strategic decisions are being made, there are many moving parts. At times, this can understandably lead to a sense that ‘nothing is happening’ across our membership.

Change takes time

We all recognise that change is needed to many of the digital systems currently in operation. However, it’s very important to remember that meaningful and sustainable change cannot happen overnight.

Patience is an important part of the process right now.

It is very important to acknowledge that from time-to-time – due to urgent operational imperatives – Branches need to progress Branch specific digital projects. It is equally important to note that wherever possible National and Branches should work together collaboratively to design, build and implement new systems in the context of the broader national interest.

With that in mind, while we are working through this process of consultation, discovery and design, we should all minimise development of any new stand-alone systems, and pause to consider what a future National Digital Ecosystem could offer. After all, there is no value in forging ahead – committing time, money and resources – separately when there are opportunities to make decisions and develop plans and processes together. And, for the first time in many years, those opportunities are available right now.

If we don’t work together, there is a real risk of creating systems that can’t work together, thereby duplicating effort, wasting limited resources and funds – and ultimately failing to deliver the outcomes our members need.

The key to successful digital transformation is not simply the technology. It is bringing people along on the journey.

Taking the time to consult, agree on the direction, establish the right processes and gain the necessary endorsements can sometimes make progress appear slow. However, doing this work properly at the beginning will make the overall transformation better and more successful in the longer term.