Redesigning the IT operating model to improve delivery speed, accountability and business alignment

1 min read

Automotive & Transportation

Business & Operating Models

Our client faced challenges with speed of delivery, misalignment with the business and unclear accountability. We redesigned the IT operating model, introduced business-aligned squads and new ways of working. This improved delivery speed, clarified ownership and ensured business and IT leadership alignment.

Outcome 1: Established a new IT operating model approved by executive leadership and implemented immediately
Outcome 2: Improved delivery by introducing business-aligned squads and increased speed
Outcome 3: Strengthened trust and accountability through greater clarity of ownership and better collaboration between business and IT

The challenge

A leading US freight rail operator faced ongoing challenges with its IT transformation efforts. Projects were consistently delayed and over budget as friction between IT and the business intensified. A newly appointed IT executive saw an opportunity to redefine how IT delivered value.

The IT function was slow to respond, lacked clear accountability and was not aligned with business priorities. Delivery delays and duplicated efforts reduced confidence in the IT function, and existing shared services no longer met the organisation’s needs.

The approach

1. Conducted a maturity assessment to identify key pain points and urgent needs

2. Diagnosed root causes across processes, people and technology

3. Designed a new IT organisation built around business-aligned squads

4. Defined new ways of working across project delivery and management

The value delivered

The newly designed IT operating model marked a significant shift in how IT engaged with the business. The transition to business-aligned squads enhanced delivery speed, responsiveness and ownership. Greater transparency and clearer accountability helped rebuild trust and positioned the IT function as a strategic enabler of growth and change.