Whether this is an internal or external facing project the first step is making sure the customer needs are understood and clearly communicated to the project team. Changes can prove costly and time consuming, especially as the project progresses, so it’s essential to have shared clarity from the start.

A clear plan of action is critical!  A full and comprehensive plan helps to ensure all work is completed on time and within budget. It is much easier for people to get on with their work, when they have a clear idea of what’s expected of them.

Clear and targeted communication is important for any role, but especially so for the project manager. Focused and transparent communication results in team members understanding their role and what’s expected of them.  Additionally, it’s important to communicate effectively with key stakeholders, keeping them in the loop with project progress and milestones

Regardless of how effectively a project is managed, how clear the brief was or simple the project, there are always the issues of project change and organisational change to manage.  Understanding and responding to the organisation and its ability to absorb and adapt to the change being implemented is often under-anticipated.

When the project is completed, it’s important for the project manager to review performance and deliver against the initial aims of the project. Through this analysis important insights can be gained into how the process might be improved for the next project.