The anatomy of a successful project starts with setting a dependable infrastructure. Including framework, processes, people and systems that enable teams to effectively reach business goals through project management. Since project managers carry the burden of responsibility, it’s very important that the PM ensures the infrastructure is in place. From there, a PM should focus on the necessary project management skills.

In the video below, Melanie Williams shares her journey in project management. Her coordination skills and ability to connect dots led her to a career she loved.

The anatomy of a successful project can be described as follows:

The project manager demonstrates key PM soft skills.

It’s true, studies have shown that communication skills and problem-solving skills greatly impact the success of a project. To effectively motivate a project team, a PM must have a solid understanding of project requirements and be knowledgeable enough to communicate them to a robust team. Being personable is also a great way to build relationships and eventually trust. 

 Good project managers are always finding ways to solve problems that may arise and are usually very resourceful. A project will have a higher chance of failing if the PM does not possess these soft skills. 

Scope and budget are on track and closely managed.

If scope and budget are on track, the project has a really good chance of being successful. Change is inevitable; but what’s important is that the changes are controlled and monitored to avoid scope and budget creep. However, if scope and budget are constantly being negatively impacted, the project is at risk. 

Be sure that communications are flowing, risks are being managed to a “T” and all deliverables are on track. This helps to keep scope and budget under control. If all KPIs are trending positive, this is a good look, sis. The project is likely to be successful. 

Minimal customer/client complaints.

It’s always a good sign when the customer/client is happy and has minimal complaints. I say minimal because there’s always something especially with complex projects. The key to minimizing complaints is open and honest communication. It’s really important to address issues as they arise to begin the problem-solving process. 

By, Airess Rembert, PMP, Member of Women Of Project Management & Blogger at The Nerd Bae

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