As an ITAM coach and the founder of Boerger Consulting, I’ve had the unique opportunity to collaborate with industry leaders from some of the most innovative companies worldwide. One of my standout engagements has been with Netflix, renowned for its culture of innovation and strategic foresight.
My work with Kim Master, Senior Manager of IT Sourcing and Operations at Netflix, has explored the depths of ITAM and its critical impact on business operations. Here’s what we learned…
A Partnership Rooted in Strategic Excellence
During my collaboration with Kim, we meticulously crafted a partnership that prioritized collaboration and empowered all stakeholders—team members, data customers, and data suppliers. This collaborative focus was integral to our success, demonstrating the value of involving specialists who comprehend ITAM essentials and adeptly navigate a company’s specific cultural and strategic landscape.
Our partnership was a balanced approach to vendor relationships, exemplifying the strategic use of leverage and knowledge in procurement.
By transforming ITAM into a data-driven, strategically aligned function, we emphasized the importance of precise and trustworthy data as the keystone of effective ITAM.
Creating Equilibrium in Procurement
At Netflix, Kim’s philosophy centers around creating balanced, informed vendor relationships empowering stakeholders to make strategic procurement decisions. It’s a testament to the power of leverage and knowledge in procurement and how my work with Netflix emphasizes this strategy.
Addressing ITAM Challenges with Data-Driven Solutions
Kim and I discussed the transformation of Netflix’s ITAM from an under-resourced operation to a strategically aligned, data-driven function. My role involved guiding the team through this transition, highlighting the essential nature of accurate, reliable data as the foundation of an effective ITAM program:
The Right Tools
Our work together also involved navigating the crucial decision-making process around tool selection—specifically, choosing Oomnitza as the ITAM solution, perfectly aligned with Netflix’s operational needs and cultural nuances. Hence, the essential role of accurate data, strategic tool selection, and collaboration in driving ITAM success.
Key Takeaways for ITAM Success
Through the collaboration with Kim and Netflix, several key takeaways emerge for ITAM professionals:
- The crucial role of accurate, reliable data in ITAM.
- The strategic importance of tool selection aligned with organizational culture and needs.
- The value of collaboration between ITAM consultants and internal leaders to drive strategic, operationally aligned ITAM processes.
Kim’s implementation of ITAM at Netflix has yielded impressive results, with year-to-date ROI already surpassing the implementation costs.
Next Steps
Reflect on your current ITAM strategy—where are the gaps, and what innovations could propel your organization forward?
I invite CIOs and IT leaders to engage with our insights, share these ITAM strategies within your networks, and join us in building a community dedicated to strategic asset management.
Listen to my discussion with Kim here and take the first step towards transformative change.
