Lesson 1 - Setup Calendar(s)

The first step is to setup the calendars as all calculations regarding effort, duration, etc. are based on this. If you follow the standard 8-5, 40 hours a week routine, you can probably skip this, but if your work times are different, you must set the calendars up before you do anything else.

Otherwise, all calculations get messed up and it is nearly impossible to fix it later.

The only option then is to undo all the planning done and start again from this step. Read more

Does Microsoft Project overwhelm you? In 7 short lessons and less than a day, you will confidently start using it to your advantage

One of the most critical aspects of successfully executing a project is planning it, and planning must involve both tasks and resources. In addition, it is not enough to simply create a plan and start executing tasks without properly tracking the progress. Proper project reporting to all stakeholders involved is an equally important part of project delivery. Read more

The most important requirement for a successful project is to define requirements clearly… No, we are not playing with words (Part 2)

Now that you have created a detailed document with features, it is advisable for you to create a traceability matrix (like the one shown here) in an Excel file matching each feature or functionality (in a column) to a requirement (in a row). This will ensure that all requirements are met.

This will also help you quickly identify which features are impacted when a change in a requirement is sought. Any time a change is effected in the requirements, refer to the matrix to identify the features impacted by the change and make appropriate modifications to the spec. Read more

The most important requirement for a successful project is to define requirements clearly… No, we are not playing with words (Part 1)

According to surveys by the Standish Group, 20-25% of projects fail (or are challenged… never mind the terminology… just know that either the vendor and/or the customer is adversely impacted, and that is bad) due to poorly defined requirements.

Requirements must be absolutely clear and signed off by you and the customer. Read more

You have the right people and the right processes to manage projects but… What next?

Now you and your team have the right skills and you have the essential processes in place. How you wish this powerful combination could deliver you success in all projects automatically!

The fact is, it is not good enough. Read more