If e-business consulting projects moved along like a meal in our hypothetical restaurant, it would be ideal. The world of systems integration is firmly planted in a different reality, however, and our reality has rough edges. Projects frequently have the potential to spiral out of control, and it takes application of a formal methodology to steer the project through productive channels. A lot rides on delivering solutions and applications on time, as promised.
Careers rise and fall as a result of successful or failed delivery.
It's deliver or die. Organizations in the integration industry that are built upon marketing engines are collapsing with incredible regularity. Because they lack a true commitment to delivery. A leopard can't change its spots-only a delivery engine can deliver service. A project delivered on time is the only type of service that is going to satisfy customers.