Project methods - it is all about "mind"

As you know there are myriads of project management methods and frameworks.

Many initiatives to introduce new project methods and processes fail. The reason is simply that none of these have any direct influence on project results.

So, what do we have to do to improve results?

The answer is simple, we have to influence mind.

For example, let us say that we want to reduce the time it takes to develop a new product or system. How can that be done? We can develop and introduce a project management method, which provides a series of phases or steps to take to perform an "ideal" project.

This method will only make a difference in results if the employees find this to be a relevant tool for them in their work and it starts to influence their thinking.

That is, we need to influence processes within mind, such as framing, judging and deciding. Only then can we influence action, and thereby results. In most cases the project method only becomes a "paper tiger". It sure looks good on paper, but it has no real influence on results.

A project method is not "implemented" until it has become an integrated part of how people view and think about their projects.

When you work with introducing project methods, make sure that you do it in a way that makes people mentally involved.

One thing that is important in this context is the "meth-ends". A meth-end is the end or goal that is behind certain parts of a project method.

- Why do we have that activity in the method? Why do we have to fill in the customer requirements form?
- We do that in order to save time, because if we miss a requirement early on it will delay us later when we have to integrate it in the solution. In other words, the activity to fill in the customer requirements form is really about saving time and cost in the end.

If people start to see the ends behind the design of the method, it becomes much easier to motivate people to work with the method. It becomes easier to see the points.

One very straightforward way to improve project results is to increase awareness of the ends or goals with the project methods that are used. This is something that you can do today without any investment.

What are the key goals when we carry out our projects? What goals are driving the design of our work processes? If people know these goals and stand behind them, they can find ways to reach the goals.

ProjectCompanion - FREE Project Management Software

What is ProjectCompanion?

ProjectCompanion is an Enterprise Project Management software. It helps companies to manage a portfolio of projects. It supports administrative processes such as orders and invoicing. It is also a tool for management reporting and control.

You can install ProjectCompanion on your own Windows server and use the free version entirely without cost. You get modules for project management, action management, document sharing and project diary. This functionality provides an excellent platform for project management in an organization.

You can learn more about ProjectCompanion at http://www.projectcompanion.com/.