Archive for May, 2009

Three Terrific Tricks Work Wonders for WBS

14 May 2009

wbs-post-itThe Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) defines the total scope of the project. The deliverables in the WBS will lead to the realization of the project objectives. If you do it right, you’ll be alright; do it wrong and your career won’t be so long.

1. Get stacks of 3” x 3” Post-its® of varying colours, preferably one colour per team (or department).

2. Ask each team to write, in “verb-noun format”, one task per Post-it on what they need to do to help achieve the project objectives (e.g., interview users).

3. Ask the project team to arrange the Post-its by work packages or by phases. Add additional tasks as needed. Finish off by adding milestones using the “noun-verb past-tense format” (e.g., interviews completed).

By using these tricks, you’ll expedite team development—strong involvement and commitment—and also highlight the interdependencies.

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A Better Way to Present Dashboard Reports

13 May 2009

rag-statusProject managers often use Dashboard Reports to provide weekly progress updates.

Dashboard Reports typically list the work packages or phases in the WBS along with their corresponding statuses (RAG Status: Red, Amber or Green), e.g., Package 1 is Green; Package 2 is Yellow; and Overall is Green. For the next reporting period, Package 2 might be reported as Red if the issues were not rectified properly.

Unfortunately, project sponsors “might be OK with it” after realizing the complex dependencies across departments that contributed to Package 2 being Red. The finger-pointing may continue without resolving the issues for weeks onwards.

To resolve such issues, list each team leader or department in the Dashboard Report and give each one a RAG Status. In doing so, the accountability shifts to a team or a department instead of a “nameless” work package or phase.

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The Key to Project Success

5 May 2009

The Key to Project SuccessYou may use the SUCCESS acronym below to remember some of the key steps when initiating and planning a project.

Select a dream (receive the project statement of work, business case and contract)

Use your dream to set a goal (develop the project charter)

Create a plan (develop the project management plan, collect the requirements, define the scope, etc.)

Consider resources (estimate the activity resources, estimate the costs, plan the procurements, etc.)

Enhance skills and abilities (plan for quality, develop the human resource plan, identify the risks, etc.)

Spend time wisely (define the activities, sequence the activities, plan the communications, etc.)

Start! Get organized and go (start executing the project)

… it is one of those acro-whatevers, said Pooh.*

*Allen, R. E, & Allen, S. D. (1997). Winnie-the-Pooh on Success. New York: Penguin.

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Are you looking for a project management job?

3 May 2009

Canadian Economy and Project ManagementI received an interview request for an online feature article to comment on the current state of the Canadian economy with a specific focus on projects and project management opportunities.

Although I have my own opinions and your country’s economic situations may be similar or different than that of Canada, I am hoping to hear your thoughts before Wednesday, May 6, on the following questions.

What are the biggest challenges when it comes to projects in Canada or the world?

Which industries are booming? Which industries are struggling?

What is the job market like for project managers?

How can project managers make themselves more hireable in today’s job market?

What are your biggest frustrations when looking for a permanent or contract opportunities?

How do you feel about the current economic situation?

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From a Project Manager to an Eco-Adventurer

1 May 2009

It is amazing who you can meet via the social media. This week, I was fortunate enough to meet Roz Savage on Twitter. I found instant connection to her cause, to bring awareness to today’s top environmental issues, after learning that she also started her career at Andersen Consulting (now Accenture).

Prior to becoming an eco-adventurer, she previously worked as a management consultant and a project manager. As a Scout leader, I do my fair share of taking care of the environment but it pales in comparison to what she is doing.

One key lesson that we can learn from Roz is that we can follow our dreams while making a difference in this world. We don’t need to be held hostage by our current circumstances. With the right mix of passion and planning, we can make anything happen.

Connect with Dr. John A. Estrella via Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.