How to Deliver the Right Results – On Time and Within Budget
The first important tool of project management is the simple “Project Plan.” Before you take another step, you must have a Project Plan that includes the following elements:
- Goals: Define the opportunity to be seized or problem to be solved. Write your goals using the SMART method. (Are your goals Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound?) Be sure to clearly identify all your stakeholders’ needs and expectations (i.e. customers, employees, etc.)
- Deliverables: Create a list of things (items, features, services, etc.) the project needs to deliver to meet these goals. Specify how and when each deliverable must be achieved. Assess whether each deliverable is absolutely necessary to achieve your project goals.
- Tasks and Schedule: Identify the specific tasks required, estimate the time required to complete, and who will carry out each task. Be sure to include your project team in estimating the work effort required to complete each task.
- Resources: Define the roles and responsibilities of the individuals on your team.
- Reporting: Define how you will report and track your progress and establish a mechanism to ensure your team is aware of all key milestones and work planned.
- Risks: Identify the risks that may impact your project and how you plan to deal with them.
Your Project Plan is just one of the many simple project management tools and techniques available.
Has proper planning (or lack thereof) saved (or sunk) one of your projects? Let’s talk about it in the comment box below!
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