Identifying problems

It is important to think of ways to identify and manage problems that could occur in a project.

When talking to clients / anyone about potential problems, ask yourself “how much power does the person have?”

• If they have lots of power, then they can solve any problem that occurs so they are calm.
• If they have no / minimal power, then they have to go to someone senior to solve problems. This could damage their career so they are more nervous so will ask lots of questions and want lots of assurances.

Can I as the Project Manager have a regular call with the project sponsor? The person with the power to solve problems on the client side.

If client will not tell you what is going on / potential issues or risks etc –

• When work with clients say we are their partner not their provider – we are in this together
• Share our experiences with the client – in country A normally this is a challenge or requirement or what our clients like to focus on, what do you client think about this? – So, to get the client to think about the problems they may face so they can get prepared and this reduces surprises

Do a risk matrix of common risks for the type of project you are managing. Add to this list all the time. Then share it internally with the team and use it in the team charter. Then for certain risks (not internal ones) you can share these risks with the client.

Ask the project team for feedback on your performance as project manager. As about

• My behaviour and how I lead meetings
• Team charter
• Project documentation
• What do they think of our internal and client facing meetings?