For small businesses and big corporations alike, it’s important to have a plan for completing projects on time and within budget. Unfortunately, few companies accomplish these plans within the parameters set at the beginning. Statistics show that most companies experience a project failure rate of 70%, causing them to lose money and threaten the business’s reputation. At Workzones, we understand how difficult project management can be, and we want to help you succeed. Here are some project management do’s and don’ts that can help you keep your team on track.
Do Involve Your Team In Decision Making
Before beginning a project, it’s beneficial to sit down with the team and discuss 1. the end goal and 2. the steps you need to take to achieve that goal. By bringing everyone into the discussion, you can set realistic expectations and prepare your team for the task at hand.
Don’t Hold Meetings For Quick Updates
Many project managers are tempted to hold meetings designed to update their team on where they are in the project timeline. However, if you’re bringing everyone into the meeting room for a 15 minute update, then you’re slowing down your team’s progress and limiting their productivity. Sending regular status update emails is a great way to keep your team in the loop while still respecting their time.
As mentioned in the previous section, getting together with your team to discuss the scope of a project and make decisions accordingly is important, so you will want to hold meetings on occasion. If you do need to meet with your team, remember that meetings are collaborative events. Distribute materials in advance and give each member of your team a chance to share their ideas.
Do Communicate Frequently
Meeting with your team before the project starts and just expecting everything to get done is not a great way to ensure project success. Instead, regularly check in with your team and make sure they’re completing the goals laid out in your strategy.
Don’t Micromanage
While you want to make sure that your team is on track, constantly checking in is more likely to delay them than encourage them to complete tasks in a timely manner. Remember, you don’t need to know every step a team member takes to complete their work – you just need to know that they’re getting their part done.
Do Set Up Your Team To Succeed
One reason that project plans fail is that the plan wasn’t achievable to begin with. If you don’t have the necessary resources or the plan cannot be completed within the given timeline, the project is destined to fail. Make sure to clearly communicate to the client what your team is able to do and agree on a strategy accordingly.
Don’t Blame Your Team
Within any project or venture, problems can occur. Maybe your company’s software is down, causing a delay in your progress. Or, maybe a member of your team sent the wrong order to a supplier. With whatever issues arise, avoid blaming others for the setback and instead focus your attention on problem solving.
Looking For A Place Where Your Team Can Collaborate?
Are you looking for a workspace in Santa Barbara where your team can work on their next project? Try Workzones! Our premier coworking space offers a flexible, collaborative environment where business professionals can maximize their productivity. If you need a private space to meet with your team, we also offer private office space, conference room, meeting room, and board room rentals complete with all the amenities you need. Book your room today or contact us to learn more about our coworking office space!
