10 practical rules for project managers: A real-world guide to successful delivery

There’s a dangerous myth in project management; that success lives in spreadsheets and dashboards. My opinion? Treat project management the way a pilot treats flying; check your instruments, trust your crew, fly through the turbulence, and always keep one eye on the horizon. This approach is rooted in practical realism, where people understand what needs to be done, why it matters, and who's responsible.

Rule one: Own it like it's yours

Taking ownership of a project is essential for its success. This means being accountable for the outcome and understanding the project's heartbeat, including its bottlenecks, politics, and areas where people need support. When you own the outcome, the team follows. You can't delegate belief, and you can't outsource accountability.

To implement this rule, ensure that you clearly define roles and responsibilities within the project team. This clarity helps prevent confusion and overlapping work, ensuring that everyone is working towards the same objectives.

Rule two: Communication is oxygen

Clear and respectful communication is vital for project success. It's not just about conveying information but also about listening and ensuring that everyone is on the same page. As I usually say, "Miscommunication is the easiest way to lose three weeks." It can lead to significant delays and issues, losing precious time.

Effective communication involves translating complex information into clear, actionable steps. It's about narrating progress, calming storms, and keeping everyone aligned with the project's goals.

Rule three: Build teams like engines, not committees

Great teams are engineered, not formed by accident. They are built on purpose and trust. A good leader leads from the front, protects the team from unnecessary noise, and delivers alongside them. The mantra "Lead from the front, protect from above, and deliver alongside" encapsulates this approach.

To build a high-performing team, focus on creating an environment where everyone feels respected and empowered. This involves shielding the team from external pressures and ensuring they have the resources needed to succeed.

Rule four: Unblock everything, every day

Projects often hit obstacles that can stall progress. Identifying and clearing these blockages is crucial for keeping the project moving. This involves a mix of diplomacy, process fluency, and persistence. "Tactical unblocking" is about resolving issues promptly and effectively.

Rule five: Risk is real - respect it

Risk management is a critical aspect of project management. It's not just about identifying risks but also about surfacing them early and addressing them collaboratively. Hope is not a mitigation strategy; proactive risk management is.

A RAID log is a valuable tool for risk management, serving as radar for potential issues. By being honest and transparent about risks, you can build trust with stakeholders and ensure that issues are addressed promptly.

Rule six: Deliver the hard way

Successful project delivery often requires being present and committed to the project's success. This means being on-site, rolling up your sleeves, and making things happen, even in challenging conditions - "If you need to be there, be there. If you need a tool, bring it. If you need Wi-Fi, find it." It's about being pragmatic and flexible, adapting to the project's needs.

Rule seven: Keep momentum alive

Momentum is essential for project progress. Regular check-ins, such as daily stand-ups and mid-week syncs, help keep the pulse alive. It's about preferring progress over perfection and maintaining a rhythm that keeps the project moving. A perfect plan that doesn't move is a museum piece.

Rule eight: Technology is the tool, not the trophy

Technology should empower the project, not be the focus. It's about using the right tools to create business value, not just impressing with architecture diagrams. If you wouldn't bet your name on it, don't deploy it. The measure of success is not the technology itself but the value it creates for the business.

Rule nine: The customer is always watching

Whether the customer is internal or external, their perception of the project's success is crucial. Treating every engagement like a performance - professional, consistent, and calm under pressure - is vital. Delivery builds reputation, and reputation builds future business.

Rule ten: Lead with respect, press with purpose

I believe that "Leadership without respect is just noise." Leadership involves being firm but respectful. It's about holding the team to high standards while giving them the freedom to own their work. Respect breeds trust and trust breeds delivery.

The pragmatic way forward

In summary, successful project management is about being pragmatic, owning the project, communicating effectively, and delivering results. By following these principles, you can ensure that your projects are successful and that you're leaving a positive legacy.

The key takeaways are:

• Plan it
• Own it
• Communicate it
• Deliver it

By adopting this pragmatic approach, you can achieve your project goals and build a reputation for reliability and success. "Success isn't just hitting milestones. It's leaving a project better than you found it - with a team that would follow you again tomorrow."

If you’re looking for a partner that brings the same pragmatic, people-first approach to delivery, explore how One Advanced Managed IT Services can help you. Contact us today to start the conversation.