Save the Children UK
Project management - database implementation
Save the Children UK ("SCUK") relies on a large database system to help manage relationships with supporters and to develop marketing activities. In 2005 SCUK carried out a project to consolidate the database by migrating records and information from various small databases used by departments such as trusts, campaigns, volunteers and education.
Sayer Vincent helped by managing the project. This involved working with SCUK to tailor the PRINCE2 project methodology to the project. The work included establishing good project governance with clearly defined roles of the project steering group and project team, managing a project team, liaising with suppliers and maintaining and updating project documentation.
Sayer Vincent were able to contribute to the developing structure and approach for managing IS projects in SCUK. We reported regularly to the steering group to help them take decisions and confirm that the project was still meeting its objectives. We held regular meetings with the project team to make sure that they focused on the critical activities and this helped to secure user commitment throughout the project. Sayer Vincent set up a project document library for maintaining and filing key documents relating to the project, including detailed plans and risk log. This helped to ensure that the project met deadlines and remained within budget. With our help, the project led to a better working relationship between IS and business departments about IS developments.
"Professional attitude and ownership of the project helped users deal with changes to their current and new donor management system. Sayer Vincent's previous knowledge of SCUK, and their technical expertise in the core database, were definitely major advantages. The resulting positive user feedback during the project closure meeting demonstrates the benefits of using a structured methodology with excellent communication skills used in meetings, documentation and reports to SCUK IS management."
Lyn Douglas-Orr, Senior Manager Projects & Development Group