The Australian Red Cross, a well-known humanitarian organisation, has been providing support to communities for over a century.

With a mission rooted in compassion, the organisation’s commitment to helping those in need has been unwavering. However, even such noble endeavours require effective management, which is where technology steps in.

We had the privilege of sitting down with Brett Wilson, the Chief Information Officer (CIO) of Australian Red Cross, to discuss the organisation’s journey of technological transformation and how it’s shaping a stronger future.

The above video is only an excerpt.

Only ADAPT’s Research and Advisory Advantage clients can watch our full interview with Australian Red Cross’ CIO.

From Dispersed to Unified: The Transformation Imperative

Stepping into his role at Australian Red Cross two and a half years ago, Brett Wilson encountered a technology landscape that was reminiscent of a “cottage industry of architecture.”

The organisation had invested in technology, but a staggering 89% of its efforts were lost to shadow IT, with disparate technology teams and budgets creating a fragmented approach. Brett’s mission was clear: consolidate these resources, align technology goals, and pave the way for a unified technological foundation.

Brett’s strategy was ambitious yet focused. He aimed to bring together various teams, technologies, and budgets to create a streamlined and cohesive technological framework.

The key was to establish a transformation strategy that not only addressed current challenges but also laid the groundwork for the organisation’s future endeavours. The timeline was aggressive, but that didn’t deter Brett and his team.


A Swift Revolution: Dynamics 365 as the Game-Changer

Facing the daunting challenge of a multifaceted transformation, Brett and his team chose Dynamics 365 as the core platform to facilitate this monumental change. Within just seven months, they successfully implemented Dynamics 365, an achievement that showcased the dedication and determination of the Australian Red Cross team.

Brett acknowledges the importance of a minimal viable product (MVP) approach in driving the transformation. Rather than striving for perfection, the team focused on delivering a functional solution in record time. This approach ensured that the organisation could begin reaping the benefits of the transformation sooner rather than later.


The Path Forward: More Than Just Budgets

A question often posed in times of transformation is whether increased budgets play a pivotal role.

Brett highlighted that Australian Red Cross has been fortunate to experience budget growth over the past couple of years.

This financial support has allowed the organisation to address critical areas like security and transformation, making it better equipped to engage donors and efficiently respond to emergencies.

In the realm of humanitarian work, every dollar saved and every efficient process established can contribute to creating a bigger impact. Red Cross’s transformation isn’t just about technology; it’s about optimising processes to ensure the most efficient use of resources.


Unique Challenges, Unique Solutions

Brett believes that what sets Australian Red Cross apart from commercial organisations is its diverse community of stakeholders, which includes not just staff and volunteers, but also members and the wider society.

Technology must cater to these distinct groups and their varying needs. Moreover, the organisation handles a variety of sensitive data, necessitating a robust security approach to ensure data protection and privacy.

In the face of emergencies and disasters, the Red Cross’s technology platform must be agile and responsive, rapidly mobilising volunteers and resources. This adaptability is a unique challenge that the organisation faces, emphasising the importance of technological flexibility and scalability.

Conclusion: Towards a Digital Horizon

The story of Australian Red Cross’s technological transformation underlines the importance of innovation even in the realm of humanitarian work.

Brett Wilson’s leadership exemplifies how a strategic approach to technology can not only enhance internal operations but also maximise the organisation’s capacity to help those in need.

The journey from a fragmented technology landscape to a unified digital foundation demonstrates the power of aligning technology with a broader mission.

As Australian Red Cross continues to evolve, its technological transformation stands as a testament to the organisation’s commitment to making a lasting impact on the world.

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology and philanthropy, the Australian Red Cross’s transformation serves as an inspiration for organisations worldwide, reminding us that even the noblest of goals can be achieved with the right blend of vision, strategy, and innovation.

The above video is only an excerpt.

Only ADAPT’s Research and Advisory Advantage clients can watch our full interview with Australian Red Cross’ CIO.

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