Tuesday, August 26, 2008

How to achieve project success?


1. For the client - meeting of minds

* define success criteria from the outset - ideally one super stakeholder, one client voice
* keep client stakeholders engaged during execution
* seek frequent feedback for continued alignment to objectives
* focus on client satisfaction

2. For the team members - collaborative working environment

* carefully select members, and give them what they need to succeed - must have a strong core team
* ensure proper planning and communications - have a first-class kickoff meeting, cascade the planning tasks down the stream and get members' buy-in
* take the pulse constantly on team spirit
* encourage escalation of risks and concerns
* celebrate successes

3. For the shareholders - due diligence

* practice rigorous financial planning and management
* approach risk and issue management with urgency - don't waste a day, from the very beginning
* look for win/win solutions to issues - high value vs. low value trade-off

4. other tips

* Focus on the goal and measure progress monthly/weekly - tangible deliverables only, make it visible, listen to concerns, take immediate corrective action, and celebrate success
* Don't hope - identify the risks and account for their costs
* Don't gamble
* Do seek help - early enough and clearly enough
* Be committed
* Don't try to be the technical expert on the project

Sunday, August 17, 2008

Career Portfolio: Giving You an Edge in the Marketplace

by Randall S. Hansen, Ph.D.

Career Summary and Goals
Mission Statement
Traditional Resume
Scannable/Text-Based Resume
Skills, Abilities and Marketable Qualities
List of Accomplishments
Samples of Your Work
Research, Publications, Reports
Testimonials and Letters of Recommendations
Awards and Honors
Conference and Workshops
Transcripts, Degrees, Licenses, and Certifications
Professional Development Activities
Volunteering/Community Service
References List