What sort of organization structure and culture enhances the prospect of a successful project outcome?
Here are some lessons learned on Project Management:
1) Technical direction cannot be separate from cost and schedule decisions. The PM must be able to trade off technical, cost, and schedule
2) There must be clear funding authority and responsibilites for the project.
3) Auditors independent of the PM are needed: PM must have clear legal and logic in their decisions in the audit trail.
4) The culture of the PM and his staff must be recipient to drastic change, and flexible in attitude. Murphy's law applies.
5) The PM staff have to be able to quantify and manage risks in cost and schedule. Nothing is ever known with certainty.
To enhance the prospect of a successful project outcome, an organization should have a specific structure and culture that supports effective project management. Here are some key factors to consider:
1) Organizational structure: The organization should have a proper project management structure in place. This may include a dedicated project management office (PMO) or project teams with clearly defined roles and responsibilities. Project managers should have the necessary authority and resources to make decisions and manage the project effectively.
2) Clear communication and collaboration: The organization should foster a culture of open communication and collaboration. This includes promoting effective communication channels, sharing project goals and objectives with team members, and encouraging regular updates and feedback.
3) Flexibility and adaptability: Successful project outcomes often require the ability to respond to changes and unexpected challenges. The organization should have a culture that embraces flexibility and adapts quickly to new situations. Project managers and team members should be open to change, willing to adjust plans and strategies based on new information or evolving circumstances.
4) Risk management: Project managers and their teams should be skilled in identifying, assessing, and managing risks associated with the project. This includes quantifying risks in terms of their potential impact on cost and schedule, and implementing strategies to mitigate those risks.
5) Supportive leadership: Strong and supportive leadership is crucial for project success. Leaders should provide the necessary guidance, resources, and support to project managers and teams. They should also foster a culture that values project management and recognizes the importance of delivering successful outcomes.
In summary, an organization structure that supports project management and a culture that values open communication, flexibility, risk management, and supportive leadership can enhance the prospect of a successful project outcome.