We have observed this ‘failure to launch’ on too frequent a basis in the market place. The most significant causes of failing to achieve the desired goals like growth in customers and revenues are:
1. Poor definition of strategic options and not utilizing an approach of experimentation and learning to iteratively develop the required new products, services processes or technology
2. Incorrect definition of the initiative. What is the scope for this phase and what is the finish line in terms of business metrics?
4. Insufficient definition work up front. Not all projects can be accurately pre-defined to hundreds or thousands of lines but what is critical is an overall blueprint with detailed, adaptive breakdowns of the current phase or active workstreams
5. Indeed there is also a danger in over-analysis leading to inertia. Striking a balance between project structure and agility is key to the art of change management
6. Where applicable, the selection of third party providers can make or break your new proposition. Enter these relationships positively but with due care and a healthy dose of skepticism
7. Don’t underestimate how much resource you will require to get to the finish line. If line staff are to work on the project, make sure they are backfilled. If you need external resources, look first for cultural fit and a track record in getting things done
8. How transformative, controversial or disruptive is this change? Build into the timeline healthy estimates for how much work will be required to take the business with you and be truly ready for launch and the new organisational existence beyond
At Euvita we have consistently delivered to project goals established upfront in the engagement charter and we have received highly positive feedback from numerous clients. This success has often been managed where there are limited resources and distinct internal barriers to implementing change.
For more information including a guide to our lean Project Management methodology, please get in contact by emailing info@euvita.co.uk.
