Project Management
Businesses will sometimes need to bring in external project management if they’re embarking on a ‘creative’ project. This could be along the lines of a re-branding or a product launch. If this is out of their comfort zone, then having an experienced outsider to manage the project could be the solution.
Giving the project to someone with the understanding how these projects progress saves valuable time and saves money in the long run.
Creative Solutions
As well as having someone involved in project management, businesses also welcome having an additional creative thinker as part of the team. Exploring different possibilities and questioning some decisions will help the project. As a result the outcomes will be more resilient and sustainable. They might know what they would like to achieve, but don’t quite know how to go about it. As a project manager I can help brain storm ideas and assist in getting the team to bring their own solutions.
Speaking the Language
As a project manager I can involve myself in the technicalities of the tasks ahead. It is not unsurprising the people within the business don’t know the correct questions to ask as it’s not their area of expertise.
I can take on all the problematic issues such as briefing printers, choosing new website platforms with website providers, advise on social media strategies, All of which will provide added value to the project.
Project Planning
Effective time management and being able to review and prioritise tasks is key. Looking with a fresh pair of eyes will often help strip away any political issues which have the potential to hamper the project.
Project management is more that just organising the tasks. It is important to listen to all those involved in the project and ensuring they are happy with how we plan to proceed. What are the objectives and is everyone comfortable with what we want to achieve?
Project Execution
The project must under constant review and all stakeholders feeling informed and engaged. Together we will find the best way to collaborate. I have no preferred method, it has to be right for the business. What we don’t want to do is get bogged down in learning new systems just to fulfil these projects.
Drawing on past experiences we need to quickly identify any snagging issues that might come to light and find an effective way forward. Guiding a project to completion can be a difficult process if we have difficult people involved. They need to be brought on side and not alienated to ensure the project isn’t derailed. Here I can use my experience and training as the Chairperson of a charity to diplomatically intervene while making sure everyone feels they have been heard.
Project Management Review and Measurement
How do we measure success? What were our objectives? Once the project has been completed, are all the stakeholders happy with their contributions?
We also need to establish what happens once the project has launched. We need to build in maintenance tasks and ensure someone takes ownership of anything that is crucial to the long term success of the project. Who will take on the project management role and be responsible in the future?