How many projects are stopped early and why?
The first problem is often at the very beginning of the process: the project framework and mandate are unclear; the objectives are approximate, and the means are not defined. Rarely can it end well with such initial uncertainties.
A second problem arises when competences are not clearly assigned. This tendency to be unclear in this area is often the source of much disillusionment. Everyone thinks they are competent or, on the contrary, no one feels responsible.
When you hand over the keys to your car, you must admit that someone else is driving it, right? How often do other people or entities intervene to change the course of the project? All too often, unfortunately, this can go so far as to completely block the project or, even worse, pervert it.
A third problem arises with duration: an interminable project will never have a happy ending because resources will run out, the objective will be changed, and sponsors will have disappeared. Even if you do not want to go too fast, you must keep the timeframe reasonable.
This all seems so obvious, but experience shows that these ‘challenges’ are all too common in practice.
It is important to be able to follow the project through to its conclusion by defining the axes and stages in a precise manner. Although administration is not the most attractive part of a project, it is a necessary step that helps to avoid many surprises and inconveniences.
Once the first three “challenges” have been “channelled”, the game is not yet won because many exogenous elements disrupt the process: shaky communication, impromptu team changes, budget cuts, sudden disinterest, etc.
Therefore, projects of a certain size must be led by seasoned and recognised professionals. These project and process management pros are then the guardians of correctness and results.
Going through with the process does not mean that you must rush headlong into it despite the headwinds. Rather, it is about staying the course in a world of randomness and knowing how to adjust the sails if the wind changes.
Have a good read.