What Best Practices really are. -- CIO Article

Using celebs for endorsements has become such best practice that everyone does it. So what is best practice about it? Nothing. The phrase is simply a demonstration of how cliched business language dresses up the concept of copying something someone else has done. And when lots of companies copy the copier, it becomes dull, intellectually stagnant and offers no competitive advantage. It's just a me-too strategy executed by the cynical, the lazy, or the lazy cynics.

In the world of technology, the phrase best practice makes my blood boil. Those on the vendor side sell it as if it is the elixir of life, a golden key to the city of hi-tech paradise. The buyer-side of the equation is little better. You know you are dealing with a room deficient in imagination and innovation genes when someone asks: "What's best practice?"

...you need to get out the crucifix, garlic cloves and wooden stake when you come across peers posting up their successful projects as best practice.

If everyone ran their technology departments the same way and conducted projects in an identical manner, then best practice would have its place. Life is not like that. Those who believe it is, face an existence in which imitation drives you closer to the abyss of commoditization. This is why the smart guys lead the way, thinking innovatively and committing to creativity. You don't want to be a carbon copy of your competitor. You want to innovate. Be original. Be the best.