Balancing risk between tech and non-tech in a cloud project. Can you find common ground to ensure success?

I believe that the most complex non-technical risk is legal compliance, especially related to data residency and data sovereignty

Conducting a thorough risk analysis is essential for cloud projects. This involves identifying various types of risks such as technical risks (like data breaches or service interruptions) and non-technical risks (such as adherence to regulations and the effects on business functions). It is vital to evaluate the probability and severity of each risk. This common understanding serves as the basis for developing risk mitigation plans that address the concerns of both technical and non-technical parties involved.

🧠 "Identify and evaluate potential risks from both tech and non-tech perspectives." 📘 "Understand the impact and likelihood of each risk." 📊 Conduct Comprehensive Risk Assessments 📋 Use Risk Management Frameworks 🖥️ Involve Cross-Functional Teams in Risk Analysis

Also, in some Client ecosystems current technology software may not be compatible on Cloud. So, you may need to modernize them to avoid anti-pattern before migrating the application to Cloud. In this case, it becomes important to discuss with non-technical stakeholders like Business to understand their future state vision of the current application and you can guide them in the right direction for a better ROI.

With non-technical stakeholders, I would recommend focusing on talking to them about the economic benefits and ROI of cloud projects.

Gaining stakeholder buy-in is a crucial step in a project. It's important to involve both people who are knowledgeable about technology and those who are not early on. When explaining the benefits of cloud computing, focus on things like how it can make tasks more efficient, allow for easy growth, and help save money. Encourage open discussions to address any worries and make sure that everyone's opinions are taken into consideration, creating a team-oriented atmosphere.

🧠 "Engage both technical and non-technical stakeholders early in the project." 📘 "Ensure that everyone understands the benefits and risks." 📊 Organize Stakeholder Meetings 📋 Present Clear and Concise Information 🖥️ Address Concerns and Incorporate Feedback

It is very important to create a clear communication strategy. This strategy should detail how information will be shared among team members and stakeholders during the project. Use language that can be easily understood by both technical and non-technical people, making sure that everyone can stay informed and up-to-date. Holding regular meetings and providing progress updates can help keep everyone in the loop and establish trust."

It is important to establish common goals that both technical and non-technical teams can work towards together. By clearly defining specific and measurable objectives that are in line with the main goals of a project, such as improving customer satisfaction or making operations more efficient, all parties involved can be on the same page. Ensuring that these objectives are mutually agreed upon by all stakeholders helps to prevent misunderstandings and ensures that everyone is working towards the same end results, reducing the chances of conflicting interests.

Mitigation strategies are important for managing risks effectively. These strategies involve taking steps to reduce the likelihood or impact of potential problems. In technical scenarios, this could mean setting up strong security measures or selecting trustworthy cloud service providers. For non-technical risks, such as human error, strategies may focus on providing thorough training to users or implementing changes gradually to reduce disturbances. By combining different approaches, a project can be safeguarded against a range of risks.

In addition to training technical staff, non-technical staff should be trained in cloud governance, as well as financial staff in CapEx and OpEx concepts.

🧠 "Establish a common ground and foster collaboration." 📘 "Implement strategies to align both tech and non-tech priorities." 📊 Develop a Unified Project Vision 🛠️ Facilitate Regular Cross-Functional Workshops 🖥️ Use Collaborative Tools to Track Progress and Share Updates