Manage Expectations to Succeed

In the project management world there are many differing opinions regarding how to successfully manage a project. One of the most important things project managers must do is to manage the expectations and relationships with our stakeholders.

Some things to keep in mind to help us manage our relationships better are:

• Take the time to assess the culture (Is it supportive, what is the balance of power, what are the stakeholder attitudes)
• Identify and formally document the goals of the stakeholders and sponsor (Are the goals realistic, attainable, communicated)
• Assess our own capabilities and limitations (Are you politically savvy, respected, a good negotiator)
• Define the problem(s) the project will be solving (Define objectives, risks, relationships)
• Develop solutions (Create action plan, determine the right solution for the right time)
• Test and refine the solutions (New learnings must be incorporated, replan, retool, rethink)
• Develop communication plans to ensure expectations are managed 

Successful Project Managers Have...

Have recognized leadership traits

Be a great communicator

Have a sense of humor (often)

Have integrity

Be driven to succeed

Have great project management skills

Be disciplined

Be able to think strategically

Be a good listener (active listening)

Be compassionate

Make good decisions

How does a new project manager obtain and hone these skills?  My quick answer is a blend of education, experience, on-the-job training, mentoring, and a continuous feedback loop.  In order to move from good to great we must work to improve our skills and focus on our strengths; however, we must also identify and minimize or eliminate our weaknesses. 

Finally, great project managers like working with people. They like challenges, they have an even temperament, and they are a motivating influence to those around them.  Good PMs don’t just plan and delegate, they get involved and become part of the team. 

Wisdom and Projects

Albert Einstein said "A clever person solves a problem; a wise person avoids it". After reading this quote, it reminded me that project managers spend a lot of time (or should be) avoiding problems. One thing that can help project managers avoid problems is to follow a Project Management Methodology (PMM). A PMM is a set of agreed-upon processes that assists project managers and  teams to deliver predictable project outcomes.

To create a customized PMM for your organization you need to define all applicable project management processes, procedures and policies used to deliver your organization's projects. Also, don't forget to develop or obtain a set of project templates as they are an important part of any PMM.  Finally, you need to develop a training program to introduce and educate your organization about the new PMM.

Once your PMM is implemented ensure you measure the results and make adjustments where necessary. If you need help in developing your PMM there are many companies that can assist you and your organization.