5 Keys to a Successful Project
1
Embrace Change
Change is certain. Design and construction operate in a very dynamic environment. Between building codes, industry best practices, environmental concerns, and constantly evolving social and market expectations, what worked the last time does not guarantee success now. Previous successes provide a great framework, but the ability to effectively embrace and manage change is a mindset that must be supported and shaped by experience, professional insight and commitment.
2
Define Expectations
Every project, without exception, must be a win-win situation. If one party defines winning as someone else losing, then team success is not possible. Everyone involved in the project has goals and expectations. These usually center around schedule, quality and costs. It is imperative that goals and expectations be clearly communicated, shared with the project team, and documented as a means to evaluate the project. Not doing so is a primary source of failure.
3
Assign Accountability
It’s a given that everyone on a project team must be both responsible and capable of performing their tasks. “We are all professionals here…” or so it goes. The challenge is that “when everyone is accountable, no one is accountable.” The process of assigning accountability at the beginning of every project is a key ingredient for success. A clear understanding of who is responsible for each task is only possible if everyone has the same understanding. Accountability creates value and ownership in each team members’ actions.
4
Facilitate Clear & Timely Communication
The only way to know what everyone is doing on a project is through effective communication. Clear communication goes beyond quantity and quality. Getting the necessary information to the right people at the right time is critical. On many projects, information is readily available in a timely manner, but it is not presented in the correct format or provided to the person that needs the information. For the team to stay informed, there must be a clear communication process led by an effective facilitator.
5
Organize Teamwork
No project is the result of one person’s or company’s efforts, but one person or company can jeopardize a project’s success. When this happens, more often than not, it is not a lack of ability as much as a failure to properly integrate with the project effort. Every team requires a playbook and an understanding of the purpose of the team. Without this understanding, each entity defaults to achieving individual success at the expense of the team’s success. With everyone pulling in the same direction, something greater is possible.