Systems Thinking: Looking at the overall context, trends, and interdependencies rather than focusing solely on immediate tasks. Understanding how different parts of an organization or problem interconnect and influence one another.

Big-Picture Perspective: Connecting the Dots for Sustainable Impact

I have consistently demonstrated the ability to step back and examine the broader context, trends, and interdependencies that shape our organization's technology landscape. Rather than focusing solely on immediate tasks, I have cultivated a big-picture perspective that allows me to connect the dots and drive sustainable, impactful change.

One example of this big-picture thinking is my understanding of the relationship between credit card transaction fees and mobile ticketing. It would have been easy to simply implement a mobile ticketing solution without considering the financial implications, but I recognized the need to dig deeper. By analyzing the effective rate or net cost of credit card transactions, I was able to see the correlation between the cost of the item being purchased and the relative impact of the credit card fees.

Specifically, I observed that the higher the cost of the item, the lower the net cost impact of the credit card fees. Conversely, the lower the cost of the item, the higher the net cost impact. Armed with this insight, I worked to assist my organization in understanding this relationship and making informed policy decisions to keep credit card transaction fees as low as possible. This big-picture approach has helped us optimize the financial viability of our mobile ticketing initiatives and ensure that we are maximizing the value for our riders.

Similarly, my big-picture perspective has been instrumental in ensuring the success of our core bus and rail operations management system. I recognize that the weight of supporting this critical system does not rest solely on the IT team's shoulders. Rather, it requires a collaborative effort from four key groups: IT, Operations, Payroll, and the vendor. By maintaining a holistic view of the interdependencies between these teams, I have been able to work diligently to ensure that all parties are pulling their weight and contributing to the overall success of the system.

Expanding beyond just technology, my systems-thinking perspective has also encompassed the importance of accessibility and ADA compliance. When implementing software solutions, it is not enough to simply focus on the technical implementation. I have recognized the need to consider the broader implications for our internal employees and our customers. By incorporating ADA compliance as a key consideration, we have been able to create technology solutions that are truly inclusive and accessible to all, further enhancing the user experience and demonstrating our commitment to equity.

Through these examples, I have shown my ability to rise above the immediate tasks and challenges, and instead focus on the broader context, trends, and interdependencies that shape our organization's technology landscape. By connecting the dots and maintaining a big-picture perspective, I have been able to drive sustainable, impactful change that aligns with our overall strategic objectives and delivers value to our stakeholders.