As BESIX continues to grow and adapt to the increasing demand for ICT applications and data, it is essential that our approach evolves to ensure we continue to deliver high-quality services in a cost-efficient way.
Why the need for an Application Governance Board?
Our Group is experiencing an unprecedented demand for ICT applications and data. This increasing requirement impacts our operations significantly, necessitating a dedicated approach on how we administer our software applications and data management. To align our IT operations with our strategic business goals and improve service delivery, the IT Steering Committee has decided to establish the Application Governance Board.
What is the Application Governance Board?
The Application Governance Board is a team of experts with a mandate to oversee all aspects related to the software applications and data used at BESIX. The board’s role is to ensure that all software and data-related activities within the Group are managed qualitatively, safely, and cost-effectively, supporting the Group’s objectives.
Goals of the Application Governance Board
The main goal of the Application Governance Board is to create a transparent process for decision-making regarding tenders, projects, and shared services concerning what applications are available for which functionalities, how they are selected, implemented, supported, and how costs are recharged.
Composition of the Application Governance Board
The Application Governance Board includes senior leaders from various organisational areas to ensure an in-depth perspective on technology decisions. This diverse representation will help tailor our application strategies to meet broad organisational needs effectively.
The members are: Jonathan Harford (Data & Analytics), Werner Godaert (CIO), Kristof Vandenbogaerde (Business Application Manager) and Hans Janssen (4PS).
Going forward
In the future, the Application Governance Board will govern the Application Delivery Team, consisting of a Business Process Owner and at least one other person per application or process. This structure will facilitate the creation of a Center of Excellence for Application Owners. The tasks of this team will include ownership and strategic planning of applications, setting up procurement and recharging processes, establishing standards for applications, and ensuring effective implementation and support.
Implementation example
For instance, when a new tender is issued, the Application Delivery Team will define the necessary applications for the project, budget accordingly using tools like the Digital Configurator, and ensure that implementations are swift and align with BESIX’s best practices. This team will also serve as an escalation point during the project to support various needs.
Initial scope at first
Initially, the Application Governance Board will focus on BESIX Construction activities in Belgium-Luxembourg, Europe, International and Middle East (i.e. Watpac excluded) and on the Business Enablers at HQ Brussels.
In conclusion
As of now, the ICT department will maintain sole authority for ordering IT software and hardware, requiring full approval and authorisation by the Application Governance Board before any requisitions. This ensures compliance with our governance framework and maximises the value and security of our IT investments. Therefore, all requests for purchasing software, whether as individual items or as part of a larger project, must be sent to the IT Service Desk or to one of the Application Governance Board members.
Thank you all for your cooperation.
Werner Godaert, CIO BESIX Group
Jan Van Steirteghem, COO BESIX Construction