bmanning81 / kdassing

As a Project Manager, Strategist, Developer, Designer, or Stakeholder, we are all part of the puzzle—and it's crucial to keep sight of the big picture—even when we’re required to pivot from the original plan. Pivots come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They can be a minor change that’s quickly integrated into scope or a major departure that alters the entire course of the project. When you encounter these shifts, it’s vital you strategize, communicate, and continue to capture the vision of the client so the final product is a solid foundation for your client’s goals and KPIs—not a point of resentment.

Each pivot adds a new element that you have to take into account. If you keep some key points in mind, you will be able to deliver your project on time, within budget, and create a lasting relationship with your client... In this session, we’ll review the following concepts for managing projects in danger of derailment:



Kicking off the project with an organized team and plan of attack

Capturing the client's vision

Asking the right questions early

Communicating with your whole team

Strategy

Development

Design

QA

Stakeholders (yes, they are part of your team, too!)

Avoiding the dreaded “overcommitment”

Identifying the Goal and Plan on how to accomplish it

Being ready to PIVOT

PIVOT, PIVOT, PIVOT

Keeping your team grounded in the delivery

Managing team morale and motivation

Avoiding burnout and frustration

Don’t get caught up in too many meetings

Continue CLEARLY communicating with your stakeholders

Getting ready to deliver with success!

Conducting a retrospective and additional planning—not a postmortem