How to create a standardization plan

Standardization requires clear rationale and benefits beyond just uniformity - there must be tangible value like cost reduction, efficiency gains, or risk mitigation

Get buy-in from teams by involving them early in evaluation and decision-making rather than mandating changes top-down. Let teams participate in testing and provide feedback

Having a “champion” who already knows the new tool/standard and can support other teams is critical for successful adoption

Consider timing and approach carefully - sometimes gradual transitions with incremental benefits work better than big-bang migrations

Balance standardization with team autonomy - not everything needs to be standardized. Focus on high-impact areas where consistency really matters

Plan for incomplete adoption - migrations may never reach 100%. Have strategies to handle exceptions and legacy systems

Document standards clearly and create paths for teams to challenge or propose changes to standards when needed

Consider maintenance costs and support needs - standardizing on a solution means committing resources to maintain and support it long-term

Watch for teams solving similar problems independently - this can signal opportunities for beneficial standardization

Data integrity and migration planning are critical - careful testing and validation needed when moving between tools/systems