How to succeed in Project Management
The main objective of the project manager is to make sure that all activities given to the team members are satisfactory and delivered in perfect condition and on time.
Meet the client and pick your team
The role of the project manager is to liaise between the client (sponsor) and the team members. The first call of duty is for the project manager to plan and organise the work that’s required by the client and then “choose” the appropriate team members.
Teamwork & Morale
For your project to be successful you need to have 100% confidence in your team members. Your Project will fail when morale drops, so make sure that you choose the right team for the job. You don’t want any unwanted mess at any stage of the project; this will not only upset your project management but more importantly the client’s needs and expectations.
The first Project Meeting is so important
When you have picked your team, assemble a project meeting and make sure you have all the information about the project with you. Here how’s I normally proceed;
- Introduction – overview of the project and business objectives
- Team – who is responsible for what tasks
- Plan – overview of the project phases
- Evaluation – test and ensure work is complete
- Handover – present client with finished project
What happens when something goes wrong?
There has never been a project where something didn’t go wrong. However there is a BIG difference between a minor issue and a complete balls up! As project manager you need to take immediate action to resolve the issue. Just make sure that it doesn’t affect the rest of the project too much.
The work has been completed, so now what?
Great! All the work is done, now you need to evaluate. Take your time and make sure that everything runs smoothly before your contact your client and handover the finished goods. If any issues do occur, be sure to record them and fix them.
Client handover
When handing over the finished project to the client make sure that you are happy to and not just to receive the payment. A happy client always means repeat business. Congratulate the team; maybe take them out for lunch or a drink.
5 things to be aware of with your project management, not in any particular order
- Never rush any work – this only leads to lack of concentration, drop in morale which will result in dodgy work.
- Don’t allow “Creep” to happen. Creep is when extra bits are added into a project that could jeopardise the end product and the projects schedule.
- Interruptions – Stay focused on your project, don’t get drafted into any other projects.
- Think “product” and not “payment” – make sure that you and team are working towards the final product and not doing the job simply for payment at the end. Remember; good work = good reputation and that means repeat business or new business.
- Teamwork – It doesn’t matter how good you are at managing projects, its teamwork that wins in the end. Select your team members carefully. You need to have complete understanding and communication. NEVER treat your team members like slaves and don’t take them for granted.
Judith Kennedy. Personal Coaching to help you release the YOU inside. Said,
March 30, 2009 @ 8:18 pm
Great post Aaron! Some very valid points to be taken into consideration for projects in any business.. even in my business of Fitness & Health.