My last post showed the steps I often take during a large project, trying to solve a client’s problems.  I break it into sections to make its completion seem more manageable.

This post includes other tools that I use while we are deciding how to proceed on an assignment. They can help people on different teams see how decisions might impact the project outcome.

Write down and share:

• Simple pro and con list
• Create a SWOT analysis for a more complicated project.  This will list strengths/weaknesses/opportunities/threats to a considered option. An online search will show there are many ways to lay out a SWOT analysis; I think a useful format is similar to this first example from Creately.

It is especially helpful for me to lay out a flow chart, if data processing or viewing a tech stack is involved. Everyone can easily see the steps and who is responsible.

I also use shared documents (like the Google Suite) that allow people to contribute and see real-time changes.

The tools I use depend on the complexity of a project, the number of people and departments are involved, and the knowledge level of the group. Each allows for open communication among team members.  The process for laying out the entire project as in my previous post is one I do for almost all multi-step projects. 

The journey continues. Cindy