The following list of project pitfalls will sabotage the hard work of idea development. Identify the pitfalls that are relevant to your project and develop strategies to eliminate or minimize them. Think your way to success. The fun part is developing a workable idea. The hard part is the project work that implements the idea.
Tip: Meet with your project team and have the team members identify the pitfalls that are relevant to your project. Then, together, develop strategies to overcome the pitfalls.
1. The project leader does not have the authority and responsibility to make necessary decisions or to take action in a timely manner as the project work progresses.
2. The Project Manager has no input on who is on the project team.
3. Cross-functional team members are not held accountable for meeting deadlines or completing necessary work with their respective managers.
4. Sponsors or customers demand additional features that are outside the scope of the approved project – scope creep. This additional work often pushes projects over budget, causes missed deadlines, results in lost revenue, creates friction on the project team.
5. Resources are spread too thin or people lack necessary expertise.
6. The Project Leader is not easily accessible.
7. Every project team member gets invited to every project meeting whether or not they have anything to contribute leading to wasted time.
8. Cost estimates are not realistic. They are what someone wants them to be. Then, surprise! Cost over runs.
9. Egos and bureaucracy get in the way of productive work.
10. The project team does not believe in the project.
11. Start up is a disaster. A lot of problems occur that could have been avoided.
12. The schedule is not based on realistic working time lines.
13. Believing the budget is not negotiable.
14. The Project never ends.
From your experience, what additional pitfalls can you add to the list?
Lynda Curtin is an expert ideation facilitator, professional speaker, trainer and author in the fields of business creativity, marketing and speaking. To book Lynda for your event call 818-507-6055 or email info@LyndaCurtin.com For more information on her programs go to www.LyndaCurtin.com
