Project implementation: the new baby

Abstract The author has seen close parallels between aspects of information technology and everyday life. This paper takes a sideways look at the analogies between the post-implementation stages of major projects and the care of new born infants. After full ante-natal care (classic project management) and the trauma of birth (going ‘live’), there is the long hard process of child rearing. Infant systems are very vulnerable and can fail in the early stages without the right kind of support. This paper suggests that project management expertise needs to be expanded and extended to cover this critical period. What is needed is a better understanding of the care of infant systems.