IT organizations are constantly faced with the need to pursue large initiatives in order to promote the growth and competitiveness of their business. Examples include: SOA/Modernization ERP upgrade New custom development projects For any type of initiative, a cost-effective solution that uses the best possible resources is needed to ensure success. Ideally, you want to spearhead these initiatives with your own knowledge workers who understand your business. Additional resources are needed for large initiatives, but where do you find them? In house! Assigning resources that know your industry, know your business, and know the key players in your organization is your best bet. Backfilling for these resources, training them, and assigning them to the strategic initiative is the best solution, as long as you limit the associated risks of the backfilling effort.