As an executive level manager accountable for a portfolio of projects, you may be at an arms length from the tactical management of your key initiatives. You are trusting the Project Manager to ensure the project is delivered on time, on budget, and with all the requirements fully met. Your PM may be a certified PMP, but passing the test doesn’t automatically translate into successful leadership. In watching the PM work with the team, you should get a comfort level if you hear the following statements.
10. “Bad news does not get better with time”
Early warning on projects drives successful projects. By raising the awareness of a problem early, the team has an opportunity to methodically address the issue, before it forces them into crisis mode. Not raising the issue early causes a double whammy: 1) The problem usually gets worse with time, and 2) the team has less time in the project schedule to recover.9. “Let me check the project plan to understand the ripple effect of this issue”
A good PM does not just create a detailed project plan, but uses it as his guide. I am continually amazed at the number of PM’s who use the project plan more as a checklist, rather than a planning tool. As changes or issues arise, a good PM will use the plan to identify areas of concern down the line, and then consult appropriate team members for mitigation steps.
Learn the other eight at: http://www.chiefprojectofficer.com/article/129