Extensive skills and experience

Who we are

According to my Linkedin profile: “I am a technology leader that strives for superior business enablement through digital transformation, excellence in service delivery and operational management. This is made possible through my extensive specialist expertise in the implementation of technology solutions and service management frameworks.”

Phew! Where do I find the time for all that?

Alex Cruden

Director, Technology Consultant

What that boils down to is that I’ve been working in technology roles longer than I care to mention (if I say ‘mainframe computers’ you’ll get the gist) so have been around the block a few times – seen heaps, done loads.

In the roles I’ve had over the years, I’ve figured out that some formal approaches can be a little inflexible and difficult to understand. So, I generally take a selection of what I know from project management methodologies, application development techniques, service management frameworks and general business management. Then I apply some real world common-sense to come up with a way forward that fits the situation!

That’s not to say there is no formal structure to what I do, but the techniques I use have to be fit for purpose and flexible enough to avoid hindering the process.

And that doesn’t mean I have all the answers to every situation. There simply isn’t a ‘one-size fits all’ approach, especially when business needs are constantly shifting. Agility and continual learning are definitely part of the job specification!

My style is both consultative and collaborative, so I take the time to understand the challenge before recommending a solution.

The way I go about determining what a business is trying to achieve involves a healthy dose of listening. This means working together to tailor an outcome that meets the ‘why’ that started the whole thought process for you.

Oh, and the ‘we’ at the top of the page indicates that I can’t do everything on my own. I typically work with your team, whether that is the leadership group, the IT team or experts from other parts of the business. I am also comfortable working with the many excellent solution providers that are available around the country.

This approach has the added benefit of being able to share my knowledge so the team can participate in the implementation to understand the ongoing support requirements of the solution delivered.

And finally, the primary driver is for technology to contribute to the generation of revenue or ensure measurable cost savings are delivered by the solution.

There’s no point going with the latest technology offering just for the sake of it! I will help identify the most appropriate solution for you, for the right reasons.

If this all sounds like it’s what you’re looking for, get in touch – I’d love to hear your story.

Testimonials

What People Are Saying

Digital Transformation

I had the pleasure to work with Alex during his time delivering an ERP solution for a healthcare client. Our company – EMDA – went through a rigorous and competitive selection process and ultimately was awarded the contract to provide a new cloud based ERP solution. During this project we worked very closely with Alex and his team.

One of the many strengths Alex has is technology experience and the ability to take a very wide view and understanding of a complex deployment such as the one we were collaborating on. It was a true pleasure to work with an astute and professional business operator.

I would be delighted to work with Alex again in the future and would highly recommend him to any company looking to embark on a new digital transformation journey.

Gary Patterson

Sales Director, Australia & NZ, EMDA

Major System Implementation

While I was project lead for a major system implementation, with Alex as the sponsor, he provided me with consistent, calm, and considered advice; encompassing the people, process, solutions, and stakeholders required to achieve the outcomes expected.

Alex provides a steady and methodical approach to all aspects of his work, making him easy and comfortable to work with.

He has the ability to provide the right level of governance and adapt to changing landscapes with a wealth of knowledge. This shows most prominently when dealing with unexpected events and stakeholder communications.

Bernie Winter

Director, Mobi

Solutions Architecture

Alex is a respected leader, capable of engaging across all levels within an organisation to achieve results. He can be trusted to balance the commercial and technical needs of a business in complex environments. Alex is also marvelously diplomatic and able to quickly turn adverse situations around to smiles and collaboration.

I had the opportunity to work closely with Alex on many occasions as a Solutions Architect and Infrastructure Engineer. Alex was challenging, demanding, insightful and supportive as well as a brilliant business owner and stakeholder.

At all times, he is a great source of advice, always willing to assist/coach/mentor and aims to ensure a high standard of delivery to customers.