Business Projects
Everyone is familiar with the concept of running projects but it is worth taking the time to ask "Why are we doing this project".
Some responses may be -
- Because we have already spent £xxx on equipment and it will be too costly to stop!
- To improve the efficiency of the department!
- We always re-organise every few years!
- This is an IT project not a business project!
Maybe it is easier to ignore the questions as it may reveal very little justification for what is going on, or that it could be done far more effectively through an alternative approach.
Whatever a project is called (IT, BPR, SAP, Org Change, etc) only those driving an organisations strategy (Sponsors) can sanction them.
The business project methodology is the ideal way in which to test all of the projects in your programme. As the project sponsor this will ensure -
- your projects are driven by benefits supporting your strategy
- that your organisation is correctly interpreting and translating your strategy.
- a common framework so everyone understands how each project is progressing.
Business projects are initiated by producing a Business Case NOT an MS project schedule and will resolve the issues you face.
Whatever the stage of your projects it is never too late to implement a Business Project Management Methodology and ensure the correct interpretation of YOUR strategy!