When we start a consulting project in Project Management, it is common for our clients to tell us that they previously tried with internal resources but did not have the expected results.
When analyzing the reasons for the failed attempt, the barriers and errors are generally the same: lack of knowledge of processes and methodologies, lack of time to fully dedicate themselves to the project and resistance to change, mainly on the part of those who have more time working in the company and who, generally, are located in middle and senior management.
My experience over the years has allowed me to confirm that carrying out these projects with the leadership of an external team helps the processes flow more naturally and efficiently in organizations.
The fresh eye, innovation and open mind of a professional who enters to analyze the functioning of an organization without bias or preconceptions, provides openness and security to all parties, improving the flow of the process.
These are the three key aspects that, as a Project Manager (PM) at B&T Consulting, I recommend and apply to lead improvement processes with my clients.
Communication and transparency
The organization should always be informed about the processes in a clear manner, indicating the objectives, stages and roles.
Poor communication management generates rumors, false expectations and even misunderstandings that could hinder the process and lead to bigger problems within the organization.
It is ideal that every project also includes a communication plan that is executed in parallel throughout the implementation and in which all areas that will participate in it are involved.
Clearly define the project goals
A work plan with clear objectives and deliverables should be drawn up with the PM. All parties must make sure they understand their role within the process and commit to completing the tasks assigned to them in a timely manner.
It is also important to make visible the positive impact that the project seeks and how this will impact the results in the medium and long term.
Making it clear that the Project Manager plays a guiding and supporting role, but that the owners of the process are the company and its collaborators, is vital to avoid being perceived as an outsider who is evaluating or criticizing the way things have been done.
Putting the project at the service of the organization
When we innovate and execute improvement processes, it is normal to think about how to speed up or facilitate the work of the collaborators, so by seeking to please them, the objective of the project is lost: to optimize one or several processes of the organization.
In this area, the PM plays a transcendental role since he listens to all parties and objectively builds a solution that responds to the main needs detected.
B&T Consulting PMs are professionals with extensive experience in projects from different areas in organizations of all sizes and in practically all areas (finance, application development, IT infrastructure, human resources, manufacturing, etc.), which allows us to provide practical, effective and scalable solutions, always at the service of our clients’ needs.
We have resources that are at the forefront of knowledge of methodologies and tools that allow us to guide companies in their change processes, thereby guaranteeing successful results in each project.
Take advantage of the experience of an external PM. We are sure that venturing to improve your organizational processes will drive you to take your company to the next level.
About the author
Natalia Morales Monge, a graduate of the Technological Institute of Costa Rica in Business Administration and a Bachelor’s degree in Finance, has also complemented her professional profile with courses and specializations with international entities.
Over the last 5 years, he has consolidated his career in the project area, working as Project Manager in areas such as Financial Services, Data Management and Process Improvement. He has been part of the B&T Consulting team since 2017.
