Everything starts with a problem: every new project, programme or service aims to solve a problem. Whether it may be an actual error in a process or the need to implement something new, everything starts with the identification of a problem that must be solved.
It can therefore be said that Project Management itself is based on problem identification.
Understanding the Company’s Direction
Before starting to work on a new project, it is necessary to make some preliminary evaluations: any new approach must be analysed according to certain fundamental criteria, first and foremost to assess where the company is at the moment and which way it wants to go in the future.
What problems need to be solved? Does this problem really prevent the company from achieving its long-term and short-term objectives? Are there other problems that stand in the way of achieving objectives?
Once these and other preliminary questions have been answered, it will be possible to determine whether starting a new project will benefit of the company.
Not starting the Project: alternative solutions and preliminary assessments
Some problems can be solved without starting a project, by making preliminary assessments and finding alternative solutions.
Possible solutions might include training new staff and improving the skills of those already present or upgrading systems.
Sometimes problems within an organisation can be solved with low-impact alternative solutions rather than starting a project aimed at solving that same problem.
Systematic Problems in Project Management
Do all projects fail at the same point? Does the same bottleneck always arise and slow down the work?
If the answer is yes to both of these questions, then the way of approaching project work within the company needs to be reviewed.
Strategy and Systems in Project Management
To avoid systematic problems in project management, it is good practice to rely on a proven and recognised project management method.
PRINCE2® is a project management method that was established in 1996 and it is now used in more than 150 countries, both in the public and private sector. Over the years, PRINCE2 has established itself as the most widely used project management method in the world.
PRINCE2 is a generic best practice method that adapts to the specific needs of organisations and to different types of projects, including Agile projects.
Do you want to learn more about improving your projects results? Read our blog on the “8 common causes of project failure and how to avoid them”!
Are you interested in learning how a PRINCE2 Certification can help you in your professional development? Read about all the courses we offer, for further information contact us!
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