Clarify Time Based Language
Due dates are often not set clearly. Be specific with time based language. Specify the date and time something is due. This will reduce misunderstandings on when things are due.
Time
Notify Your Client of Project Delays
Delays on projects are very common. Record the reasons for all project delays. Notify your client of delays in the project schedule as soon as possible, whether the delay is the clients fault or not.
Automate Project Management Where Possible
Automate as many project management tasks as possible, especially reporting related tasks. A good database driven system is essential for this, especially one of the many online or self hosted project management software tools.
Provide Advance Notice for Meetings
Booking last minute meetings causes distraction, delays projects, slows people’s work, and doesn’t encourage good attendance. Schedule meetings with as much advance notice as possible.
Evidence for Late Completion
Problem: If not properly managed, some projects you are managing will end up being completed late. Even though there may be legitimate reasons for this, it is your responsibility as …
Wet Weather Delays
Wet weather can cause delays to your project. Allow for wet weather in your project schedule. This will make getting extensions of time and cost easier.
Specify the Due Date
When submitting any document for review (such as a design, invoice for payment, report, etc.), specify the date a response is due (perhaps 10 business days). For contractual related items …
Organise Design Carefully
When doing a project that requires design, you should plan the time required for design carefully and allow adequate time for the design to be completed. You should also write …
Increase Efficiency In the Office
In an office dedicated to your project, seek ways to improve efficiency, and don’t allow “green” or “efficiency” measures to actually decrease efficiency. For example, I have seen many offices …
Start Meetings On time
Starting meetings on time and finishing on time creates in the team a sense of organisation and planning. If meetings constantly start late, people will turn up later and later. …