Measurable Project Management Objectives For Project Success And Motivation

Developing detailed project management objectives are one of the main keys to determine a projects success. Many projects struggle due to plan objectives aren't measurable and lack key details. Smart planning of objectives will make huge a difference in the plans effectiveness. A good project management plan with strong objectives can also open up opportunities for employee motivation.

Dr. Keith Mathis has written an article entitiled "Setting Measurable Project Objectives" on the website Projectsmart. co.uk . Mathis tells us that if you were to look at ten random projects you will always find one thing in common. That one thing in common is poorly written objectives.

Poorly written objectives lack defined details that would provide a solid understanding. As well as an improved ability for tracking progress. In project objectives, people need details for direction and guidance for how to go about completeing an objective. The information also will help them make proper decisions.

There is a road map you can follow When it comes time to start planning and writting project management objectives that are effective. This road map is called DISCO. Each letter stands for a key part of the project objective creation process.

DISCO For Objectives

D - Detail Specifics

Any good leader understands that in order to acheive the results that they need, then they must provide Specfic details. When it comes to project management objectives the same standard applies. One of the major challenges to a project manager is the the ability to properly measure a task. Measuring the progress of a task, will it be completed on time, can we take the next step are all part of measuring a task. Specfic tasks that lack details and depth make it tough for employees to follow through on tasks.

Objectives in general need to cover details like this is where, this is how it will completed and this will be done in order to complete the objective. Following these guidelines and you will stay on track.

I - Include Qualitative and Quantitative Measurements

When writting objectives ask yourself if they are measurable. If they aren't measurable, then you have to rewrite them. They have to be able to be measured and tracked. Installing qualitative and quanlitative componets to insure that the objectives are measurable.

Qualitative Measurements measure a project based on quality. These qualities consist of standards, indicators or characteristics. You can also include defect ratios, and break down ratio. To track these measurements, they need to be prioritised and broke down into manageable segments to follow.

Quantitative Measurements measure projects based on numerical indicators. Some examples of quantitative measurements include time, budget, production, work hours and development progress. To track these objectives include benchmarks for measuring purposes.

S - Seek Consenous With the Team

It is critical for the project team to understand and agree with the project management objectives. This will allow everyone to be on the same page. If the team has some issues with objectives, the project leader needs to find the reasons behind the issues. Resolve these issues and you will unite the team. If for some reason the objectives are set in stone and cannot be changed. It will be a good idea to explain the reasoning.

C - Create a Resonable Approach in Obtaining Those Objectives

Creating a resonable approach is similar to seeking consenous with the team. Again it is vital that the approach for developing objectives is understood by everyone involved. Also not just understood, but supported. If this does not stand true you will conflicts in the way the team goes about following through with the objectives.

When and if this happens you will be having different employees using different techniques and going in different directions. The project managers job will become much tougher. Problems will arise in timelines, tracking, budget and completion.

O - Operate in a Methodical Timeframe

One of a project managers toughest challenges is to put together a realistic timeline to follow. Solid project management objectives with timelines that again are understood by the entire team are important. Timelines are essentail in any project they give you goals and deadlines. They keep everyone focused and moving in the same direction.

Examples Of Project Management Objectives

"We will design 15 training courses that meet organizational developement guidelines by June 30 with a budget of $483,000. will include courses on supervision, communication, performance appraisals and creating an optimistic workplace."

Using DISCO as a roadmap to developing objectives will allow the project to stay on course. Build in solid communication, constant follow up and meet timelines. Achieve this points and you should be successful. Just keep in mind that good project management plan with objectives will not write and track themselves.

If you need more advice and direction with smart objectives there is plenty of help on this site. Other sources like free project management tools, online project management training and books on project management courses can also be found here.

So What Is Project Management

For more of a deeper understanding of project management. This must read article on What Is Project Management will help point you in the direction. It will help you get started the right way using four key points.

Many of the same principals used in developing project management objectives are found in employee motivation. To big points here are effective communication and team focus on the goals that have been established. These two key points will not only help you motivate your employees. They will allow you to make any changes if needed easier.

Return From Project Management Objectives To The Employee Motivation Skills Homepage

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