You are responsible for a project and you take it for granted that no one else knows it better than you. If someone expresses doubts about whether you understand your project, a wry smile appears on your face and your eyes begin to turn upward. But do you really know your project as well as you think? Let's try a short exercise.
The PM Hut website recently summarised some basic questions which no project manager should have problems answering. Try to answer them yourself in two ways: in writing, as if you were corresponding with important people deciding on the future of your project; and aloud, as if you were talking to them. Try to be both as concise and as descriptive as possible. It may not be so simple ... However, you will at least recall important information and summarise it in brief arguments.
What is the goal of your project?
Everyone should first know where they are heading. Only then is it possible to think about how to get there.
How are you doing right now?
Before you start taking the steps towards realising your goals, you should clearly describe your current situation. In addition to defining the scope of the project, this includes the project's budget and time frame.
What do you need to do?
Now is the time to plan specific steps within a specific time frame and for a specific cost. You have all the ingredients and the recipe. But can you prepare it properly?
Why are you doing this?
Think about the broader context of your project. What exactly does the project mean for your customer?
Who should work with you?
Try to categorise three groups of people who are working with you on the project. 1) drivers - those who work directly on the project; 2) supporters - those who help you succeed; and 3) observers - those who are interested in the outcome of your project. You should prepare a communication plan for each of these groups.
What could go wrong?
Be completely honest about the risks you may encounter. Are you ready for them?
-kk-