3 Tips for Project Success

#1: Build a solid foundation.

At the start of a project, we put together some tools that help us to keep things organized and efficient. Here are a few examples: 

• Project map. We start every new engagement with a project map that outlines players, dates, and details. We learn who’s involved, determine important dates and deadlines, and outline project goals and context. Keeping the map up to date ensures that no one is left behind when things change (because they will!). 
• Project schedule. The schedule details deliverables, deadlines, and who’s responsible. A clear project schedule that shows the entirety of the project allows us to stagger deadlines, keeping everyone sane when several pieces are in progress at the same time.
• Discovery tracker. This tool functions like a worksheet, allowing us to collaborate with the client team to plan for discovery, determine who’s interviewed, and keep track of all the details. A successful tracker includes biographical information, scheduling status, and updates. 

#2: Keep the lines of communication open. 

Strong communication throughout a project depends on having both regular check-ins on the calendar and open lines of communication so that it’s easy to stay in touch. We want everyone to be able to: 

• Get to know each other. Regular check-ins and the occasional phone call help us to get to know each other, find points of commonality, and build trust and familiarity. 
• Stay up to date. Having a recurring meeting on the calendar means we can have a quick conversation about things that come up without the barrier of scheduling. If needed, we can also invite others to join us to review deliverables or kick off new pieces of the project. 
• Stay on track. Everyone on the team should feel comfortable communicating with everyone else for quick questions, comments, or concerns. Making sure everyone stays in touch prevents unnecessary project delays.

#3: Be nimble.

No matter how much planning you do, the only thing you can know for certain is that things will always change. Remaining flexible and focusing on what success really means are key to keeping things on track, even when everything seems out of whack. Here’s why it’s important: 

• Things change. There are lots of reasons why a project may require a change in strategy or a course-correction. By having open lines of communication and a clear sense of the project goals, the project team can pivot and make informed, strategic choices.
• We want to get it right, not just get it done. Keeping to the project schedule is important, but not at the expense of thinking strategically and getting things right.  Sometimes things will change, and we all have to take a deep breath and reassess where we’re headed, and how we’re getting there. 

At Libretto, we often say “plan aggressively, then be flexible.” Project success often depends on the fine line between sticking to a plan and making room for the things that happen along the way. No amount of careful planning will keep unexpected changes at bay, but having a solid project foundation will make it easier to adjust course.