Correspondence: Kenny Kirsch Director, Strategic Solutions, NAPC, 307 Waverley Oaks Road Waltham MA 02452, USA. Tel: +203 857 5299; Fax: +781 894 3997 E-mail: kkirsch@napc.com

¹Kenny Kirsch
is Director of Strategic Solutions at NAPC, a leading technology integrator and developer serving some of the biggest names in advertising, publishing, retail and printing. Kenny has deployed DAM systems for many clients, including Pepsi and IBM, and specializes in technology solutions based on Xinet. He has over 15 years of experience in digital print production and asset management, and was previously Director of Studio Services at TracyLocke (a division of DAS/Omnicom) and VP, Director of Graphic Services at EuroRSCG (a division of Havas).

Abstract

Offering insights for both team leaders and top management, this article focuses on the unique set of skills required to successfully lead a digital asset management implementation. Organizations will learn what criteria to look for in choosing a top project leader (or change champion) and gain a better understanding of the formidable challenges this individual faces. This article also delves into the common mistakes companies make in carrying out their change management initiatives, from choosing the wrong leaders to giving them inadequate support. For change champions, there are guidelines on how to build an implementation plan, with advice on critical topics such as performing a business audit, understanding the company's business problem and rolling out a training program.