90% of Technology Projects Fail: Why Perception, Preparation, and Foundations Matter

90% of Technology Projects Fail: Why Perception, Preparation, and Foundations Matter

The statistic that 90% of technology projects fail is often quoted, but what does failure actually mean? Is it the inability to deliver the project on time or within budget? Is it a failure to meet the original scope? Or is it about whether the project delivered real business value?

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The truth is, success and failure are not always black and white.

Defining Success and Failure: A Matter of Perspective

Technology projects operate within the constraints of the project triangle: time, cost, and scope. These constraints are often in flux as projects progress.

For example:

• A project delivered late but with all desired features may be a success to some and a failure to others.
• A project delivered on time but over budget could still deliver immense business value, depending on its impact.

Perception is everything. Success to one stakeholder might look like failure to another, depending on priorities and expectations.

Why Projects Face Uncertainty

No project begins with perfect clarity. At the outset, there are always unknowns:

• People: Teams change, new stakeholders join, and priorities shift.
• Processes: Businesses evolve, and operational processes may need to adapt mid-project.
• Market Conditions: External factors, such as economic changes or competitive pressures, can introduce unexpected challenges.

Even the best project plans cannot account for every possible variable.

The Foundation Matters More Than the Plan

While we cannot predict every challenge a project might face, we can ensure that the organisation’s technology foundation is robust. A strong foundation allows businesses to adapt, pivot, and deliver value even when the unexpected happens.

This is where StackUp comes in.

How StackUp Helps

At StackUp, we provide organisations with a clear understanding of their technology function. Through our assessment and benchmarking process, we uncover:

• The strengths you can leverage.
• The gaps you need to address.
• The risks that could derail your projects.

Armed with these insights, you can approach projects from a position of strength. You will be better equipped to manage uncertainty, realign priorities, and focus on delivering outcomes that matter.

Success Is a Journey

Remember, project success is not a fixed destination—it is an ongoing process of improvement, adaptation, and delivery. With a solid foundation, even projects that face significant hurdles can create value for your business.

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With StackUp, you gain the clarity, tools, and insights to set your projects up for success, no matter how complex or unpredictable the path may be.

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Ready to build a stronger foundation?

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Contact us to learn how StackUp can help you navigate uncertainty and drive meaningful outcomes.

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