Good Communication
Communication is at the core of every project. We keep you involved every step of the way.
Listen
Good communication starts with paying attention to what the other person has to say. Too often consultants want to push their own solution, not listening to the actual problem.
Observe
Good observation will supplement the information gathered in the previous phase. We use it to make sure
what was described corresponds
to what can be seen.
Ask Questions
Questions are essential to validate our understanding of the current situation and the objectives being pursued.
By rephrasing some elements, it lets us confirm we are on the right path.
Plan
Information was gathered and validated, this is where we put our thinking cap on. Planning can make the difference between victory and defeat.
Inform
A plan will get you nowhere if you are the only one to know about it.
Informing partners makes sure we all aim at the same target.
Implement
We all agreed about what had
to be done. This is where we make it happen. Once this is done,
the cycle will repeat: listening for feedback lets us know if
the goals are met.
Success can only be achieved with good communication. Here are key elements outlined by this process
- Clear expectations. Your motivations and your goals will shape everything else. They should be clear and well understood by everyone involved.
- Project deliverables. Custom built software is not tangible like other things we buy. What will it look like? What features will it have? Those things should be clear before going too far. Otherwise, you may end up with something that does not fit your organisation.
- Assignments. Who is responsible for X or Y? Everyone’s commitments should be clear. It is the first step in making sure things get done.
- Schedule. What is the pace you can expect for the work to be done?
- Status meetings. These will not only let you know how things are progressing, they are also an opportunity to adjust anything that needs to be changed as the project unfolds.