Vincent

As Manager of the “DoIT” project, Vincent is responsible for the rollout of new standardised IT processes and tools. Read on to find out what's behind it all. 

Vincent, how long have you worked at ALDI SÜD and what does your job involve?  

Vincent: I have been with the company since October 2016 and am currently overseeing the “DoIT” project as project manager. 

What exactly is "DoIT"?  

Vincent: “DoIT” stands for Development of IT and the main focus of the project is to define a new Target Operating Model for ALDI SOUTH IT: How do we want to apply IT processes in the future, and using which roles and tools do we want to implement these in a standardised way? The current focus of the project is the rollout of these previously defined processes, concepts and tools throughout our global operations. Our aim is to apply these as quickly as possible in a standardised manner across the business group.  

What advantages does DoIT generate for ALDI SÜD? 

Vincent: IT work steps and processes are being structured and standardised based on best practices, such as ITIL and Scrum. In addition, our Global Service Desk will be established as the central entry point for support questions raised by our ALDI colleagues worldwide. 

Over ten go-live dates in one year 

What are the special challenges involved in “DoIT”? 

Vincent: On the one hand, the global and comprehensive nature of the project: in addition to our IT platforms and Global Service Desk, the ALDI SÜD operations in each of the different countries are also involved. On the other hand, the constant dynamics of the project are a challenge – which is always exciting for us. Once we have adapted our infrastructure services to the new IT processes, for example, we will move directly on to our financial applications. This brings the number of go-live dates for 2020 to more than ten. 

Which technologies do you work with during the project? 

Vincent: In terms of project management tools, we not only use the complete Office package but also Confluence and SharePoint, as well as Jira and Clarity. In addition, sharing information via Microsoft teams has become enormously important during the coronavirus pandemic. In terms of content, we naturally work a lot with our IT service management tool ServiceNow. Especially for internal employees, this is a great opportunity to further develop themselves in these market-leading technologies and to acquire not only project management skills but also content and tool-related skills. 

Everybody knows which mountain we're climbing. 

Are there any special working methods and techniques that you apply during the project? 

Vincent: We have developed our own “onboarding approach” for the project tasks in order to transfer the various services to the new process world in the most standardised possible manner. This naturally involves clear adherence to project governance, the consistent use of templates, the implementation of specific workshops, but also the short daily exchange within the team, where we discuss “hot topics”. This ensures the close cohesion in the team, as everyone is informed about which mountains are to be climbed, even if it may not concern their individual area of responsibility. 

How important is your project for IT and the company as a whole? 

Vincent: It is one of the most important ongoing projects at ALDI SOUTH IT today, and is also part of the overarching management agenda. The exciting thing is that it affects the entire IT landscape and also the national business units. 

Thanks, Vincent, and good luck with the project!