Project Management Companion

It can be stressful managing more than one project at a time; keeping on top of each is where difficulties emerge. However, there are steps that can be taken to assist in being more organised and efficient when managing multiple projects, below are just some thoughts on how this can be achieved. Forward Thinking Always plan ahead, ensure priorities are known and how much time should be taken on each task. Consider doing the toughest task first and save the less demanding for later. The point here is take an approach which is most comfortable for you, but prioritisation is a must. Time scheduling Set time aside in a calendar, block out time so you can give a project the full attention it deserves. This will assist in staying focused on chosen tasks, especially during the initial stages of the project. Thoughts remain in the one place without having to worry about other projects, achieved simply by blocking out time for that project and hold on to that specified time. Rem

The criticality of the relationship established between the project manager and the sponsor cannot be overlooked. Establishing a relationship can at times be challenging, whether it relates to the complexity of the project or just not seeing eye to eye, especially if a first time sponsor is involved, in respect to shaping and supporting the project. Project sponsors can be taxed for time, set in their ways and hence forming a productive working relationship can be challenging. Friction can be caused if there are differing points of view on how a project should be delivered.  Although the sponsor is accountable for the benefits, it is the responsibly of the project manager to deliver it successfully. When involved with a new project sponsor, then it is very possible they would have very little or no understanding of what it takes to deliver a successful project. Also not understand the weight of the role they will play in the outcome. This is where a project manager must be ver

Does luck have anything to do with the success of projects, there is always an element of luck involved, times when the moon aligns and everything just falls into place. These events happen way too infrequently. The identified risks didn’t eventuate, easy access to major stakeholders and sponsors who provide quick decision turn around. All the required resources where available, knew exactly what to do and worked well together, all focused on the goal at hand. The vendor always delivered in a timely manner and was available. Planning and risk mitigation determines the real luck, or if it should be called luck at all. Projects rely on relationships, professionalism, capacity planning and above average service to get the job done. To succeed or create luck when running projects, then project managers must learn to be great leaders. To achieve the results expected when delivering a project then focus on some of these best practices. Exploring opportunities –  Opportuniti

The inundation of new tasks within projects can occur from multiple directions and can only be handled by specific available tools. If this is the case because outdated processes or tools are used then it would be very difficult to complete projects at the speed required by business. This is a common occurrence in most organizations that need to invest in updating their project process intake tools. Managing incoming work requests aren’t always as simple as adding to a bulging project list. The following are some signs a project intake process is outdated and simple steps to build a well-defined automated project intake process. Manual work request process If work requests are still being received via Email, instant messages, and word of mouth, then there is an issue.   When work requests are being delivered via multiple avenues then the possibility of items being missed is high. This affects overall work and a team can be burnt out very quickly. Communicating via the me