Got a task to pull together a handy-dandy project to discuss some key initiatives your company aims to achieve this quarter? Don’t worry, you don’t need to know all the project management basics for successful project execution. You won’t need the assistance of any project management course if you follow this simple guide to project management and lead your team with confidence.

Step 1: Define the scope and objectives of your plan

The first and foremost part of any plan involves defining the scope and objectives of the project clearly. Make sure you identify the needs of all the stakeholders and keep their interests in mind while creating your project plan. Meet with the key stakeholders to discuss their needs and expectations out of this project. Layout the project scope, budget and timeline. It may take several drafts before you get the approval of all the stakeholders but do not skip this step.

It helps to get everyone on the same page and reduces the chances of miscommunication.

Also Read: Project Management Best Practices You Must Follow

Step 2: Prepare a comprehensive written plan

A detailed plan lists down all the tasks and activities in the order they will be undertaken. It also specifies who is responsible for which task, how long each task will take, and provides a timeline for the start and finish. Make sure to include project deliverables, timeline and budget in your plan. The plan will need to be updated on a regular basis as and when issues are identified and depending on the course of action taken to implicate the corrections.

Step 3: Maintain good communication with the team

A good channel of communication is vital for the success of any project. Communication makes sure that the entire team is aware of the status of the project. It also helps in understanding what the team should be working on, and if they require any assistance or support. Try and hold regular meetings with the team to discuss the progress of the project and resolve any issues that arise.

Also Read: How to Build a Thriving Career in Project Management?

Step 4: Measure the project’s performance

Keep a regular check monitoring the progress of the tasks and activities aligned towards the project plan.

Checkpoints to measure the performance of the project:

• Make sure the project is well within the defined scope.
• Make sure the project’s timeline is being met.
• Make sure the project is within budget.

If anyone of these points is not in line, the plan needs to be updated, and the team members and stakeholders should be kept in the loop.

Step 5: Complete the project & present it to the stakeholders

Try to complete the project within the given timeframe; it gives you the confidence that everything is on point. Present the plan to the stakeholders, address their expectations and present your solutions to any conflicts. Make sure everyone participates in your presentation and no one is left out. Have an open discussion about every agenda and make sure to cover all the points of your project.

Also Read: 10 Reasons Why Project Management Matters

Step 6: Review, and follow-up

After discussing the complete project, hold a formal closure meeting. The meeting will indicate that every point was discussed and any issues will be taken care of. Make sure to indicate the completion of the project, and review its success and failures. Most importantly: Thank your team for their work.

Pull it Together

If you still think you need guidance from project management courses, go ahead; these courses provide in-depth knowledge and take you through a detailed course of action for successful project execution. There is no harm in looking for help. For beginners, this simple guide to project management can prove to be very effective.

Happy Planning!

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