Rolling Out Controller Web: Lessons from a Successful Implementation

IBM Business Analytics Solution – IBM Controller

Services – Cloud Migration

What challenges were you facing before you rolled out Controller Web to the business?

Our divisional teams were struggling with the Controller Classic upload process. The interface was clunky and slow to navigate, and users often needed multiple logins to access different reports or screens. When uploads failed or produced reconciling errors, it was difficult to identify the cause or fix the issue, which made the process time-consuming and frustrating.

How did you get Controller Web set up, and rolled out to your business units?

We worked with IT, IBM, and Aramar support to implement Controller Web. As part of the rollout, we had to revisit our mapping tables, since not all functionality from Controller Classic was initially available in Web. This has since been resolved with the 11.1 upgrade, which introduced conditional mapping.

 We started with a small pilot group to test access, uploads, and reports, then rolled it out to other business units in stages. We also ran short training sessions and shared quick user guides to help teams get comfortable with the new interface before the full transition.

 What were the initial results of the roll out?

 The rollout went smoothly, and teams adapted quickly. Users found the new web interface easier to navigate, with fewer logins and a faster, more reliable upload process. Troubleshooting errors became simpler, and overall the reporting process is now more efficient and less stressful for everyone involved.

What feedback can you share about Controller Web?

Overall feedback has been really positive. Teams like being able to access Controller directly through the browser without any extra installations or multiple logins, and they’ve found the new interface much cleaner and easier to use. There were a few minor issues early on (mainly mapping-related), but these were resolved quickly. Users have responded especially well to features like the interactive workflow, submission tracking, the ability to drill down on TB files to view underlying source account codes, and the live detail on potential intercompany imbalances, all of which have made reporting and reconciliation much simpler.

What would you recommend to other companies looking to roll out Controller Web?

  Start with a pilot group so you can test everything and sort out any issues before a wider rollout. Make sure to review your mapping tables early, as there may be differences from Controller Classic. Provide short, practical training sessions and simple guides to help users adjust quickly. Lastly, keep close contact with IBM and your support partners, their input is really valuable during setup and troubleshooting.