Why spreadsheets don't cut it!
We have had a number of Clients who have been undertaking risk management using spreadsheets and have subsequently realised, that for a variety of reasons, this is not a very efficient or effective process. The reasons for this are numerous and include:
• Spreadsheet development cannot be controlled – the number of spreadsheets is ballooning
• Change management is an issue (difficult to report or control)
• Reporting data so that it is useful is difficult (eg programme management reporting across projects)
• Inefficient in terms of data management and workshop processes
• Cannot be readily supported in a multi-user environment
• Lack of transparency and interoperability (access to data) and integration across the organisation
• Content is generally limited
• Auditing is problematic (who is responsible for what data and processes)
The good news is that an organisation that is using spreadsheets has started on the risk management path and therefore has some processes in place. So for no more additional input effort (ie risk identification, analysis and treatment measures) substantially enhanced risk management and reporting is possible with the right toolset.
There are many toolsets now available. A key point in selecting a toolset is to ensure it is easy to use by all who need to undertake risk management. Feedback from our Client base includes the fact that RiskOrganizer is a very easy tool to use. We are also able to cut information across from spreadsheets so that current data may be accessed.
If you would like any further information then please contact us at support@RiskTools.com.au