Change is the only constant in programme management. David Whitfield’s presentation, “Planning for a Crisis, Recognising Trouble, Getting out of Trouble,” provides valuable insights into navigating the turbulent waters of programme delivery.
Whitfield contrasts the lifecycle of a well-managed project with one that’s struggling, highlighting critical factors that contribute to success or failure. These factors include:
- Size: The scale of the programme and its impact on resources and stakeholders.
- Span: The breadth of the programme, encompassing various interconnected projects and teams.
- Complexity: The intricate nature of the programme, involving multiple dependencies and challenges.
- Technology: The role of technology in enabling or hindering programme delivery.
- Duration: The timeframe for completion, influencing planning and resource allocation.
- Risk: The potential for unforeseen events to disrupt progress and impact outcomes.
Top 10 Challenges:
Whitfield identifies common pitfalls that can derail programmes, including:
- Commercial: Bidding against vague requirements and negotiating changes that aren’t reflected in the price.
- Contractual: Unclear agreements and misaligned expectations between parties.
- Delivery: Lack of review/QA, poor tracking, incomplete design, and inadequate communication.
Recommendations for Success:
To mitigate these challenges, Whitfield offers practical advice:
- Early Intervention: Address issues promptly before they escalate into major crises.
- Measurable Improvement: Define clear metrics to track progress and demonstrate the impact of corrective actions.
- Embrace Change: Develop a flexible approach to adapt to evolving circumstances and stakeholder needs.
Learning from Crisis:
Whitfield shares a compelling case study of a project that faced a crisis, emphasizing the importance of:
- Thorough analysis: Identifying the root causes of problems to prevent recurrence.
- Open communication: Fostering transparency and collaboration among stakeholders.
- Adaptive management: Adjusting plans and strategies based on lessons learned.
This presentation underscores the dynamic nature of programme management and the need for proactive planning, effective communication, and a willingness to embrace change. By understanding the factors that contribute to success and learning from past experiences, programme managers can navigate challenges and deliver exceptional results.