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Ever wondered how to get your IT project approved by your legal team?

Convincing your legal team to approve an IT project can feel daunting. As an IT professional, you’re passionate about innovation and eager to drive your projects forward. However, navigating the complexities of legal compliance can be frustrating. Don’t worry—we understand the hurdles you face and are here to guide you through the process.

Tip 1: Understand legal concerns

Before approaching your legal team, take a moment to understand their primary concerns. Legal teams ensure compliance, manage risks, protect data, and uphold contractual obligations. They are meticulous because their role is to safeguard the organisation. By anticipating these concerns, you can address them proactively in your proposal.

Tip 2: Prepare an IT project proposal

A well-prepared proposal can make all the difference. Include the following elements:

  • Project overview: Clearly describe the project, its goals, and its benefits.
  • Legal compliance: Highlight how the project complies with relevant laws and regulations. Include any legal research or consultations you’ve conducted.
  • Risk assessment: Provide a detailed risk assessment, outlining potential legal risks and how they will be mitigated.
  • Data protection measures: Explain how personal and sensitive data will be protected throughout the project.
  • Contracts and agreements: Include any necessary contracts or agreements, ensuring they are reviewed for legal soundness.

Need a template IT project proposal? Download our IT project proposal template.

Tip 3: Collaborate early and often

Engage your legal team early in the project planning process. This collaboration can help build trust, identify potential issues before they become significant problems, and improve your proposal with valuable insights and feedback.

Tip 4: Focus on business benefits

While legal teams are focused on mitigating risks, they also understand the importance of supporting business objectives. Highlight the business benefits of the project, such as:

  • Efficiency gains: How the project will improve operational efficiency.
  • Cost savings: Potential cost reductions or return on investment.
  • Competitive advantage: How the project can position the company ahead of competitors.

By aligning the project’s benefits with business goals, you can make a compelling case for approval.

Tip 5: Provide case studies and precedents

Presenting case studies or examples of similar projects that have been successfully implemented can help alleviate concerns. Show how other organisations have navigated legal challenges and achieved positive outcomes. This can demonstrate that your project is both feasible and beneficial.

Tip 6: Be open to feedback

Be prepared to receive feedback and make adjustments based on the legal team’s input. This willingness to adapt shows that you are committed to ensuring the project meets all legal requirements. It also helps in building a collaborative relationship where both parties feel heard and respected.

Tip 7: Offer ongoing support and training

Assure your legal team that there will be ongoing support and training to ensure continuous compliance and risk management. This could include:

  • Regular updates: Providing periodic updates on the project’s progress and any new legal considerations.
  • Training sessions: Offering training for staff on legal compliance and data protection measures.
  • Compliance audits: Conducting regular audits to ensure ongoing compliance with legal standards.