In the last issue, I touched on the challenge of volunteer fatigue and
the impact that it has on LIXI deliverables. Since then, LIXI has been
a hot topic, receiving mention in a wide range of publications, most of
them praises but also a dose of criticism.
While LIXI acknowledges the challenges of delivering updates
and core versions of some standards and realises there has been a lag in
implementing released standards, I would like to refresh in our minds the
voluntary nature of participation, contribution and indeed implementation
of LIXI standards in the industry. LIXI working groups are driven by member
volunteers and their output is made available to all members for implementation.
So what is driving some of the criticism? I believe it is
comparisons between the early deliverables and implementations of LIXI
standards and those of late. Implementing CAL was not only easier on existing
systems; it had some very obvious benefits. Faster application times, fewer
errors, reduced data entry, predictable outcomes and, most of all, awareness
of all these benefits.
LIXI standards have reached a point in the lending process
where implementation has significant impact on existing systems, requiring
greater focus, resources and time. There could even be reluctance to
kick-off projects due to less obvious justifications. Hence the visible
slowdown. Is that failure on the part of LIXI? Or members? Neither,
is my answer. We just have to modify our approach to achieve the desired results.
How we plan to achieve results will be the topic of the upcoming
AGM. It will be a forum for sharing ideas, receiving feedback and debating options.
We will also hear first-hand accounts of success stories and
have the opportunity to analyse the factors behind the results.
The AGM will also involve the voting of Director Nominees for
the Board of LIXI. We have 1 3 excellent candidates, but we must choose 0 to
lead LIXI for the next year. Details of the candidates are on the website and
we will update you with the election process closer to the day. The day in your
diaries should be Tuesday October 23, 2007.
This year s LIXI forum and AGM will be a unique gathering, lots
of fun bits, debates, serious business, re-establishing and strengthening of bonds.
We will all walk away with renewed objectives, armed with key pieces of information
and a can-do determination.
I look forward to seeing you at the Westin Hotel on the 23rd October.
In the last issue, I touched on the challenge of volunteer fatigue and
the impact that it has on LIXI deliverables. Since then, LIXI has been
a hot topic, receiving mention in a wide range of publications, most of
them praises but also a dose of criticism.
