Large enterprises often deal with numerous vendors, supplying them with technology and services. These relationships are typically transactional, with the enterprise receiving specific deliverables in exchange for a fee. However, when it comes to implementing DevOps, these transactional relationships can hinder progress. DevOps is all about breaking down silos and barriers, working collaboratively towards common goals. To achieve successful DevOps implementation, enterprises and vendors need to shift their mindset from vendor to partner. In this article, we will explore the characteristics of a partner, the challenges faced by traditional vendors, and the importance of capability building in DevOps transformation.
The Shift from Vendor to Partner
A partner, in contrast to a vendor, is less transactional and more fluid and agile. They become embedded in the client organization, working together to deliver projects. Partners are outcome-focused and aligned with the client's business goals. Collaboration and trust-building are essential aspects of a true partnership. To be successful in their digital transformation journey, enterprises must embrace the partner mindset. Similarly, service providers need to adopt this mindset to remain relevant and grow their businesses.
The Role of a Trusted Partner
Traditional vendors often suffer from the "innovator's dilemma," being too focused on serving their current market to adapt to emerging trends. They are content with the status quo as long as contracts are signed, neglecting long-term strategic positioning. In contrast, a trusted partner remains aware of the relentless pace of change outside the traditional vendor landscape. They challenge enterprises to be better, even when it may go against their own interests. Partners act as critical friends, fostering continuous learning and evolution.
Capability Building in DevOps
DevOps transformation goes beyond the involvement of any vendor. It requires a deep integration into internal operating models and processes. Enterprises need partners who can help them transform themselves. When considering new vendors, enterprises should ask crucial questions about capability improvement, experience enhancement, cultural change, and overall game elevation. DevOps partners play a crucial role in building the organization's capability, leading from the front initially and transitioning to a position where the enterprise can lead the charge independently.
Defining Success
Success in DevOps implementation lies in finding partners with the right skills, approach, vision, personalities, and personal dynamics. Aligned incentives and a well-structured contract are also critical factors. When these ingredients are in place, supplier relationships evolve beyond transactional interactions. They align with DevOps ideals such as collaboration, empowerment, agility, and empathy. The benefits derived from these relationships extend far beyond the immediate deliverables, contributing to long-term success for both partners.
Conclusion
In the journey towards successful DevOps implementation, enterprises must shift their mindset from vendor to partner. This transformation requires finding partners who are less transactional, more embedded in the organization, outcome-focused, and collaborative. Trusted partners challenge enterprises to be better and act as critical friends. They help build the organization's capability and foster a culture of continuous improvement. By choosing the right partners, enterprises can achieve DevOps success, leveraging skills, vision, and aligned incentives to drive meaningful results.
