Q&A: Assessing Projects
How can we assess our projects?
Traditional project success measures often focus on whether the project was on time and under budget. While these are important measures, they may not be the most important, especially in mission-driven organizations.
A truly successful project delivers impactful and useful outcomes that align with the organization's strategic goals. Did the project achieve its purpose? Did it make a difference for the users, community, or organization? Did it move the needle on our strategic priorities or mission? These are important questions to consider when evaluating project success.
Beyond results and impacts, we can also consider our approach to project planning. How effective was our planning process? Were our plans realistic and adaptable enough to accommodate unforeseen challenges or needed changes? Did we plan well for the elements that contribute to project success?
We should also consider the human element of our projects. How effectively did we foster communication and collaboration within the project team and with external stakeholders? Did we create an inclusive environment where all team members felt valued and empowered to contribute? Were our decision-makers and stakeholders kept informed throughout the project? A project team that's engaged, communicative, and supported by informed stakeholders is far more likely to achieve its goals.
Need more support leading successful projects?
Learn about our Project Services, schedule an introductory call with Jami Yazdani, or add a 1-hr Project Coaching Session to our calendar!
