The Schedule & The Project Plan

A project schedule is not the same as the project plan. Repeat after me, the schedule is not the project plan. As the name suggests, the project plan is a collection of documents used to manage the execution of a project. The schedule includes dates for tasks and milestones in the project plan and is an element of the plan, but is not comprehensive enough to be considered a plan. The project plan goes much deeper than a timeline and is the overall blueprint for the project. According to the PMBOK, the project plan may include the following: Project charter... Read More»

Show Me the Reports

A few years ago I wrote about outsourcing considerations (http://bit.ly/9DpMTI) and another article on cultural considerations (http://bit.ly/c4BpHt). These ideas still hold true and possibly more so, in our ongoing efforts to do more with less. Ensuring we meet organizational objectives for the lowest cost possible requires thorough analysis and due diligence when choosing a vendor. I strongly believe the devil is in the detail when it comes to numerous areas, including contractor selection. Proposals you may receive when going through an RFP process, likely include standard/marketing content prepared by those employed to close the sale through written promises. During the... Read More»

The Benefits of Documentation

As a practitioner and supporter of agile and lean, I am a strong believer in doing things for a reason and only those things that add value. So when it comes to documentation, many with basic exposure to agile may think that the methodology means that project documentation is not created. Instead, it should be more about creating meaningful plans and if that means documentation, then it should also add value and be the proper amount. I do not believe in producing documentation (unless the contract specifically requires certain documents) for the sake of documentation. While many technical individuals balk... Read More»

Trust Me, You Are in Good Hands

Savvy project managers have radar and can sense and predict events and circumstances. Their brains are gigantic magnifying glasses. They see what others don't. If you have someone like this in your organization or on your team, it may take a bit to acknowledge their abilities and foresight. Once they have several successful, complex projects under their belt with your company, it is time to trust them to do their job. Project managers that take their profession and the PMI code of conduct seriously will always give you 100%, and while you it might not be the news you want... Read More»

Release the Reins

As a perfectionist, I can wholeheartedly attest to how difficult it can be to give up control. But at the same time, I am also well aware that I simply cannot be involved with every aspect of all projects, nor does it make sense to be that involved to that degree. While we contribute to and share project responsibility, it doesn't mean we must do it all. While we should do everything within our control to ensure success, we need to make healthy choices and concessions along the way. We certainly don’t want, and cannot afford to be bottlenecks for... Read More»

Shortcut Shortfalls

I'm generally a very structured and decisive person, one who carefully plans most aspects of life. For many, travelling to new places can easily result in getting turned around, or even flat out lost. Some of us are more spatially intelligent than others. Knowing where I stand, I tend to rely on a GPS and printed maps for assistance. And when I feel like both have failed me, I stop and ask for directions from a reputable source. I'm always amazed at those who drive aimlessly expecting to "figure it out" at some point. While this may work in some... Read More»

Olympic Lessons

The Olympics inspire me. Ever since I was a little girl I remember watching the games, pretending one day I could be an Olympic figure skater as I glided up and down the ice covered driveway. This year I've been particularly mesmerized with the Olympics, watching as many specials and stories of the athletes as possible. I love hearing the tales of someone overcoming obstacles to live their dream and excel. And I’m not shy to admit the chills I get when a US athlete stands at the top of the podium, winning gold and hearing our national anthem. The... Read More»

Experience Matters

I recently attended a PMI event on the age old question of what makes a project more successful than another. The discussion started by stating the obvious need to focus on the 5 W's, but also the importance of 'how' things are done. The discussion was primarily philosophical, asking us to each think of the differentiators. There isn't a one size fits all approach to success, and while checklists and "best practices" are helpful, I believe it's the team's application and foresight that goes into the application of a tool or method that determines success. Sure, guidance from other sources... Read More»

Getting Back to Basics

A few months ago I wrote about companies and users thinking they need a software system for everything under the sun. I continue to be amazed at how many managers and businesses think they cannot take on certain projects or even perform their jobs to the fullest, without software. What did companies do 30, 40, or 50 years ago? Did we just tell our managers we can't do certain things because they are too complex or we don't have the proper tools? That's doubtful. Granted, the business challenges we face today may be more involved than they were years ago,... Read More»

Professional Gratitude, Recognition & Growth

While I always try to reflect on events as they occur; I realized this month that I could do more to "live in the moment" and reflect on professional lessons more regularly. Being so rushed and driven can certainly mean getting more done, but it can also result in glossing over some rich and meaningful encounters and the corresponding growth. While we may not always look at our professional interactions as something to be grateful for, we should. The people, projects and experiences we have in our professions shape our future, allow us to grow and allow us to shape... Read More»