Do you notify your client of project delays?
Do you even tell them? Perhaps you just hope they won’t notice, or that you can make up the time in the schedule somewhere else.
I don’t think that is the best way, you are just opening yourself and your project to more problems.
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Problem: Project delays cause client problems
Delays on projects are very common.
Wet weather, delays in client review of designs, transport delays due to strikes, and lots of other things can cause delays that are outside of your control.
However, your client will most likely not want to pay for these delays or will not want to grant extensions of time for these delays.
In fact, some contracts will require a very specific form of notification to the client for you to be able to claim extra costs or extra time on the project.
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Solution: Record the reason for all project delays
Make sure you record all project delays, their reasons, the associated costs, how long the delay extends the schedule, and who caused it (or what caused it).
Also, make sure you inform the client as soon as possible about the delay. Update the schedule and send them the update as well, highlighting the expected extra time the project will take due to these delays. You should also make sure you use the correct method for notifying the client of the delay (as per the contract). This may be in the form of a formal extension of time notification on a specific template or similar. Sitemate has a good example.
Many contracts will have a set period allowed for notification and application for extension of time. If you do not notify the client (and apply for the associated extension of time) within that allowed period, you will most likely not be eligible for an extension of time, and the client may require you to still meet the previously agreed schedule.
If your client increases the project scope, or asks your project team to do something extra outside of your agreed scope, ensure you inform the client of the effects on the project schedule.
Lesson: Record and notify clients of delays
Project delays can be difficult and annoying, but if you manage them well and keep your client informed, you will save yourself from a lot of problems.
Record all instances of delays in your projects. Notify your client of these delays in the project schedule as soon as possible, and especially within the contractually allowed period of time. If you don’t, the client may hold you to the previously agreed schedule, even if the delay is their fault.
