Project Managers keep a repertoire of tools for aligning project tasks and dates. But what about the rest of us? Here are tools for the rest of us to keep our projects running smoothly.
Project Outline – Typically handed to you by your manager, this is the reason for the project. It identifies a need or problem that the proposed project will remedy.
Statement of Work or Project Mission Statement – The Statement of Work (SoW) is a legally binding document that outlines the project. Internal projects use Mission Statements to identify what the project will do and when.
Kickoff Meeting – Typically, this is the hardest part as all stakeholders and participants should be available.
Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) – This is the list of tasks necessary to complete the project and should provide an understanding of the work and effort required.
Risk Register – Stakeholders create this during the Kickoff Meeting to identify potentials issues and obstacles. This step often creates new projects, greatly increases tasks or postpones projects indefinitely.
Project Plan – Now that all tasks and timelines are identified, the Project Plan is the written road map to move forward with the project for all parties involved.
Regularly Scheduled Status Meetings – The only way to know if the project players are progressing with their tasks in a timely manner is to communicate constantly!
Utilizing these simple steps and tools will ensure any project completes timely and successfully.