No Code & Operations Experience: Please describe your operational experience, building efficient processes and, ideally, working with applications and platforms like the ones we use. *

A no code platform, while attractive in name, is only as efficient as its user’s ability to first, understand and second, to leverage all of the available features. In order to maintain the VentureOut platform, I would first conduct whatever assessments necessary to evaluate the ease of use for all stakeholders, from our internal team to the mentors, startups, and any other invested entity.

 Based on the knowledge collected, We would likely see some combination of four avatars; users who use the platform and have positive or negative experiences, and non-users who don’t use the platform because of negative experiences or lack of technical competency.

 From this baseline data, I will identify user group characteristics to generate bespoke strategies, helping each segment reach adequate proficiency, all the while addressing any concerns or noted opportunities for innovation that may arise. 

 Once confident that all users have an acceptable knowledge of VentureOut’s portal, the ongoing process of maintaining and growing the platform will be a dynamic one. The first step would likely be an investment in the educational infrastructure. When we take into account the many learning styles that exist, the action steps would involve a combination of creating video & written tutorials, and scheduling various lunch & learn sessions where attendees can interact and ask questions in real time.

 Another key process for the maintenance of the platform is creating a system and culture in which all stakeholders feel comfortable expressing any ideas, questions, or concerns about the product. Once all team members recognize that the platform is nothing more than a tool to help make their lives and their jobs easier, implementation becomes a more intuitive process.

 While maintaining the platform and ensuring an optimal user experience is crucial, constantly seeking opportunities for growth and optimization is also an integral part to scaling any business. As program manager, I will use my expertise of each of the integrations, my understanding of their role in the bigger system, and my affinity for Systems Thinking to establish best practices. I will maximize efficiency and minimize waste by preemptively identify and assessing the risk vs. value that a modification in a given area may have on others within the greater ecosystem.  This process ensures that our platform is not simply running smoothly but is constantly being evaluated to ensure maximum ROI and functionality.