Bullet Point Project Management

It doesn't matter what the project is.  It doesn't matter how big or how small, the fundamentals are always the same.  Follow these simple steps for success  - Every Time. 

Remember that discipline is crucial - as is the need to follow the plan.  

• Documentation is essential – use the Dot Point format wherever possible
• Clearly describe what the end result will be
• If possible use GA drawings or similar to show the completed project
• Create an approval document specifying the end result and/or any other key features 
• Get sign off from all key stakeholders – make sure that they all clearly understand what they are going to get
• Clearly specify that there will be no “Scope Creep” - what you see is what you get
• Understand and document the starting point – the “where we are now” part
• Document how the Project will run and be managed
• Document the Scope of Work
• Detail all of the steps 
• Ensure there are clear measures and milestones
• Delegate and agree responsibilities – who is going to do what
• Set up a Capital Tracking Spreadsheet and an owner
• Set up a reporting format and schedule
• Set up a meeting format and resultant action system
• The project must Measure and Report against the milestones
• Ensure that all of the Design and Details are firm – Before Starting the Work
• Set up a disaster/contingency plan – Before Starting the Work
• Is this a new project ? Is there previous experience
• If there is previous experience  – reflect on it – if it's not used - nothing is lost – but it may be valuable and there is no value in reinventing the wheel
• Review the project – can these questions be confidently answered
• Is the starting point clear ?
• What will the completed project look like ? 
• Have all key stakeholders signed off
• Has the work  been planned in enough detail to successfully complete the project ?
• If the answers are in the affirmative – the start button can be pressed with confidence
• Then Manage the Project Plan