It’s no secret that strong communication plays an integral role in successful project management. Thanks to the rise of digital platforms, communicating can be done with the click of a button. However, the intricacies of project management and effective communication are not so simple. Implementing best practices to keep your entire team in the loop will create a successful environment for your project to thrive.
Before we dive into the best practices of project management and the services netlogx offers, let’s define some terms:
- Project: A temporary endeavor undertaken to create a unique product, service, or result
- Program: A group of related projects, subsidiary programs, and program activities that are managed in a coordinated manner to obtain benefits not available from managing them individually
- Portfolio: A collection of projects, programs, subsidiary portfolios, and operations managed as a group to achieve strategic objectives
Communication Challenges
A project without effective communication can become chaotic, creating confusion and delays. This disconnect will cause the work of different stakeholders to become siloed and unable to blend harmoniously.
If leadership communication struggles, it sets a precedent for the entire project. Inadequate awareness, information, and feedback may create a lack of trust among employees. As a leader, it’s imperative to communicate effectively and listen actively to ensure success.
Nowadays, we receive so much information from different platforms that it is easy to miss something if your inbox is overflowing. Information overload can create communication challenges and frustration in project management. As a leader, it’s beneficial to communicate deliberately and develop human connections with your team. Having clear roles and responsibilities and effectively streamlining information combats unwanted communication issues.
The Importance of Effective Communication
No matter the project, communication is a critical pillar of project success. As we continue to live in the age of information and oversaturation, it’s imperative to cut through the noise in an effective way. Only then can project management give you the power to manage your business and reach your goals.
Strong communication skills underline everything we do at netlogx; project management is no exception. Many of our netlogx consultants are Project Management Professionals (PMPs) certified by the Project Management Institute (PMI), in addition to nearly half being Six Sigma certified, a quarter have earned the Certified ScrumMaster® credential, and a number have become Prosci Certified Change Practitioners. Thus, netlogx is no stranger to the Project Management Body of Knowledge Guide (PMBOK Guide) and the communication guidelines outlined in this methodology.
- Communicate early and often: As you identify items that may affect other projects, try to communicate in advance. Work to build good relationships with other project managers. You’ll find that you can resolve many things by working directly with them.
- Be proactive: Another vital aspect of project communication is setting aside time to proactively identify risks on the current project that may affect other projects in the organization. This will save you time and effort in the long run.
- Identify high-level risks with others: Work with project managers and staff from other projects to identify high-level risks that might affect the larger objectives. This approach can bring insight into multiple touchpoints with other projects you may not have realized.
- Communicate the right things at the right time: For the interconnectedness of related projects to run smoothly, be aware of key deadlines for other projects and their “crunch times.” The related projects likely have priorities different from yours, so you’ll need to be aware of and understand any situations you may need to negotiate.
- Know when to escalate: You must know when to escalate issues to the program manager. If you come up against conflicts that cannot be resolved, including handling resources or scheduling, reach out. A program manager should also direct strategic-level decisions and program-level changes.
Let netlogx Lead Your Next Project
Don’t let ineffective communication skills get in the way of successful project management. With netlogx’ Project Management Institute (PMI) certified consultants, our project management services give you the power to manage your business rather than your business managing you. Request a consultation today!