10 Steps to Getting Tech Projects Approved

Identify problems to solve​
What is the need for new technology? Was there an event that demonstrated a need for new technology? Clearly define the specific pain points the tech will address, using storytelling skills to convince the audience of the importance and the potential impact of doing nothing.

Ensure alignment with initiatives​
As part of the proposal, be sure to reference any applicable organizational initiatives and describe how the technology solution aligns with them. A clear connection between the organizations’ goals and the proposed solutions will help position the project for success.

Understand the organization’s focus
Most strategic initiatives are further defined by specific areas of focus. Frame the project to stakeholders in those terms, thinking about what is most important to them.

Get complete project costs​
Research and understand the complete costs of the project. Gather pricing information and understand the organization's budget cycle for all capital and operating expenses.

Validate business impact​
After proposing that putting a solution into place solves a problem, capture some evidence that proves it. Perhaps the vendors being considered, like CBORD, have some case studies and testimonials to reference that show the business impact in real-world scenarios. Often, showing the proof in a peer’s own words can enhance the effectiveness of the proposal.

Partner with IT and finance​
Form relationships and partner with IT and finance. Get them involved early as they can help with validating the numbers and capturing all potential costs when it comes to internal services and hardware.

Evaluate big-picture benefits and incremental benefits​
Consider presenting a big picture plan, which might extend over multiple years and provide substantial benefits. Also, think about how it could be implemented incrementally, providing smaller wins along the way so the organization can start realizing some of the benefits immediately.

Complete a conservative ROI​
Another important piece is to complete a good return on investment. Partner with a solution provider, such as CBORD, who can help capture and account for all the potential benefits and demonstrate how that can translate into improvements and savings.

Identify checkpoints​
Ask partners in IT and finance to help identify some technical and financial checkpoints along the way to validate any assumptions. Chances for approval increase exponentially for a project that has been well thought out, that mitigates risk and that validates that the benefits expected at certain increments are on track, as well as on budget.

Incorporate lessons learned from previous projects​
If there are previous projects that were not approved, make sure to fully understand why and what could have been done differently. Apply these lessons learned to help present the best proposal possible.