“A failure to plan is a plan to fail.” Everybody has heard that one. Unfortunately, in many cases, managers can become so preoccupied with planning that they forget other elements that are just as important when it comes to the results that they expect, and customers want.
In many cases, good planning isn’t the answer, it’s part of the problem. Not that planning is bad, but studies have shown that there are four things that differentiate the best project managers and everyone else. These things range from the notes they take to the processes they employ. This article outlines some of the most important issues and how to deal with them.
Schedule Stability
Schedules aren’t perfect, and they certainly aren’t infallible. Schedules do, however, give those who must implement plans a time frame to work with.
As a good schedule takes uncertainties into account but doesn’t need to be revamped every time Murphy strikes. Instead, it’s a good idea to instead of having a schedule change, have the behavior of the people change. When uncertainty strikes, take a close look at your planning methodology. Give yourself permission to make a schedule that is “good enough,” taking plenty of time for variation.
Make Delivery Excellence Your Company Culture
So many managers pursue their goal of excellence that they often forget how to define accomplishment. Unfortunately, this often leads to less than stellar results, which remain elusive. As a result, team members end up feeling like they are spinning their wheels.
There is a better way. Instead of focusing on results, focus on delivery. Delivery is all about successful completion. When the focus is on successful completion, projects finish well.
Executives Take Ownership
There should be no secret that in order to get a job completed, the workers should have someone behind them who supports them and their work. What many people don’t realize is that, in many cases, those who have been tasked with supporting workers often have no authority to do anything more than be a cheerleader to their efforts.
Instead, managers should have executives who are behind them who have the organizational authority and resources to make the project successful. This should be obvious but often falls under the category of having all the responsibility with none of the authority.
Before anyone begins on a project, they should have an executive who is taking ownership of that project and who will be responsible for making sure that those who are doing the immediate work of completion have what they need to do the work. Careful notes should be taken to make sure all the project bases are covered from beginning to completion.
Skilled Leaders
The best project managers are not always the best technicians. Instead, they are the best leaders. How do you find out whether the people who have are leaders? They are the ones you hear from and see more often than anyone else. Check their leadership style. Leaders will emerge.
There are many ways to develop your ability to complete projects. One of the best is to work on projects and develop your skills on the job. Project management is just like a muscle. It will get stronger with use. Use your skills often and they will grow stronger.