This is exactly the subject matter of my recent article published in Project Times, “Throw Out Complex Project Timelines”. Thus, my answer is YES!
The current recession has made it all the more critical that companies deliver the expected project results – on time, on/under budget and meeting/ exceeding the intended results. Therefore, it is critical that we throw out the old paradigms, starting with the need for complex project timelines. I hear my project management colleagues thinking, “heresy!”; however, in my experience in working with companies ranging from entrepreneurial start-up’s to international, multi-billion dollar organizations, I’ve found that what “works” (delivers bottom line results) consistently is quite the opposite – simple, common sense, people-focused projects. So, what are the keys to success?
The three keys are 1) Start with people; 2) Develop a simple project timeline; 3) Lastly, follow-up is your key to success. Read about each of these three keys to how to achieve bottom line results without complexity in the full article reprinted on my website.
I look forward to hearing your comments – and I encourage debate, as it is one of the best ways to get to an even better end result.