Q: What’s one of the wisest questions you can ask companies you work with?
A: How experienced is your project management team?
For every project brought into the work-flow, project managers are asked to create solid schedules that project the milestones.
No problem! “Love it!” (Hear the hint of singing in my voice as I say those words.)
In my 14 years as a project manager, I’ve learned the risks and timing involved in building a schedule for a variety of situations. Creating a schedule is the starting point or the roadmap. It gives the direction, the timing – it is the plan. From that foundation the work-flow is generated and tracked with precision and enthusiasm.
Experienced project managers know how to lay out a foundation and project the reality of the timing for everyone involved in the project. It’s taking the conjecture, assumptions and “what ifs” out of the equation and replacing it with a clear, well-thought-out, realistic plan of action. (So if you ever wanted a job that makes a difference and makes things happen – being a project manager is it!)
It follows that more experience in managing projects will give credence to the timeframes put in place for accomplishing the tasks necessary to reach the milestones on the journey for each project. Experience is the key to doing that effectively!
In an article by Bob Weinstein, “Rejecting the Bachelor (Degree),” he even discusses the fact that “Many experienced IT project managers, for example, never took a PM course and are not certified. They simply mastered their skills on the job.”
Experience. Wisdom on how to plan your project and assess risks will save everyone embarrassing headaches. Consult with the project manager before you alert the media to your projects’ release dates. Watch the schedules with anticipation of the final completion date.
Your project manager can help guide you along the way with wisdom and insight into the ever-changing landscape of your project. It is a living thing, and it will be helpful to have an experienced specialist with you for the ride.
Take advantage of it and listen.
Straight from the Horses Mouth
Photo courtsey of Svadilfari. Original photo.
