Bimodal IT

Bimodal IT The IT industry has been growing at a very high rate over the past couple of decades. However, while security and dependability are one side of the coin, exploring new realms of potential has formed the other side. Given that, we see the emergence of a new school of thought – one of Bimodal IT. Here are some facts about it.

Bimodal IT…? What Exactly Is It? Well, considering that the concept is a relatively new one, it is understandable if one hasn’t heard of it yet. However, every businessperson – whether involved directly or indirectly in the IT industry, has most certainly come across glimpses of it. Let us first understand the idea.

Bimodal IT, as the name suggests, consists of two different kinds of IT processes being run in an organization – Traditional and Agile. These two processes are usually assigned to two separate teams, although not always.

While in terms of functionality they are quite different, when it comes to the big picture, each overlaps and affects the other in some or the other aspect.

Traditional IT: This mode involves the conventional methods of carrying out IT projects and requirements. The approach focuses on ‘doing it right the first time,’ and includes careful planning, testing etc.

Agile IT: On the other hand, this mode (usually cloud-native) attempts to constantly explore new and innovative methods and techniques of carrying out projects. The approach here is more about ‘doing it fast’ than doing it right.

Still not entirely sure what this means? Let us take a day-to-day example – say that of a 10-storied building. Well, the Traditional approach is denoted by this building, wherein the construction is strong and dependable, well maintained, with an excellent foundation, and ensured safety and security of those within and around it.

Now, imagine that the builder decides to increase the potential of the building by moving beyond its limited dimensions, so he can keep up with the current market trends of 15-story structures (sounds a little odd, yes, but just consider the possibility). What would he do? Precisely –he would add five extra stories

above the tenth one so as to achieve his target. And while doing so he may want to explore more interior and exterior design options, to make it more appealing; adding, say a large balcony or terrace, or some other kind of decoration, depending on what is ‘in’ at the time.

These five new stories, then, symbolize the Agile approach, and the entire newly refurbished and renovated building denotes the concept of Bimodal IT.

Why not let go of the Traditional approach altogether?

Well, one might think that with new technology and the Agile approach coming up, Traditional IT would have to vacate its place in the industry. However, it has been found that Traditional IT is, in fact, as important as Agile IT. While some may believe that meticulous planning, testing and deployment is unnecessary, we should not forget that the correct functioning of the business technology on an everyday basis is actually taken care of by the Traditional approach.

Consider it this way – Traditional IT is what protects the Home Front of a business, ensuring smooth running and maintenance of processes, security etc. On the other hand, Agile IT walks toward uncharted territories, looking for the potential to expand. As such, without the former, the business is left vulnerable to losses, while without the latter, it remains relatively secure, but stagnant.

So How does each Function?

Let us draw our comparisons through the means of a table.

Traditional Focus is on Long-Term Requirements Disciplined in its Approach Looks to attain Perfection Focuses on Security and Minimal Risk Takes care of Conventional Needs and Demands Includes Remedial processes Usually handles Back-End requirements Emphasis on Efficiency Involves Approval-based Governance Follows Price-for-Performance

Agile Focus is on Short-Term Requirements Free-Flowing in its Approach Looks to attain Speed Focuses on Innovation and Risk Bearing Takes care of Unconventional and Up-toDate Needs and Demands Does not include Remedial Processes Usually handles Front-End requirements Emphasis on Prototyping and Development through Iteration Includes Process-based Governance Follows Value to Business

As you can see, while Traditional IT ensures smooth running in a no-risk-notrouble manner, Agile IT involves a potential risk-potential success aspect.

Now, while it seems on the surface like Agile IT is the right way to go, we also observe a certain amount of reluctance from customers to support the ideas it brings to the table. Hence, Traditional IT manages associations with these clients, while Agile IT takes care of the more adventurous and adaptable ones.

And How does one Achieve Bimodal IT? Every organization has the potential to function on a Bimodal level. To start with, it is necessary that the IT team be divided into two parts – in order to maintain clarity. This would involve a screening process wherein individuals who are more at home in their comfort zone, and would rather continue doing what they do than try to explore further, would be best suited for the Traditional mode. Whereas those keen on learning more those and who show great interest in the evolution of technology would do well in the Agile mode.

While the former requires individuals of an IT-centric mindset, the latter requires those of a Business-centric mindset.

However, it is to be noted that both teams and modes ought to be treated similarly, with neither gaining the title of being ‘more useful,’ as this might create a great amount of discomfort and discontent among employees. As long as a neutral manner is adopted by the management, the transition ought to go smoothly.

In Conclusion…

It certainly seems as though Bimodal IT is the new big thing in the market.

Considering overall efficiency, adaptability and evolution of technology, it can be assumed that the Bimodal notion has an answer to everything.

After all, Balance is the most important thing when it comes to business as such, and this newfound means of functioning gives us precisely that, with many benefits attached.

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