"Don't Wing It: The Importance of a Strong Project Approach"

As a project manager or business leader leading projects, developing a project approach is an important component of creating a well-written project plan. In a nutshell, the project approach outlines the methodology or strategy that will be used to complete the project successfully. In this post, we define what a project approach is, explain its importance, and list ten solid project approach baselines to consider for your next project.

What is a Project Approach?

The project approach is not complicated, it’s the overall methodology or strategy that a project will follow to achieve its objectives. It defines the framework for project management that outlines the project's scope, timeline, budget, resources, risks, and communication strategy. The project approach should be based on various methodologies or frameworks, such as agile, waterfall, or hybrid approaches. Depending on the size and complexity of the project, it may also include specific strategies for managing risks, engaging stakeholders, and communicating progress to relevant parties.

Why is a Project Approach Important?

Developing a project approach is critical to the success of any project, regardless of its size or complexity. A well-developed project approach provides a baseline framework for project managers and team members to ensure that they are aligned with the project's goals and objectives, plus a basic blueprint of how the team will get to the finish line successfully. It also serves as a guide for making informed decisions throughout the project's lifecycle, such as when to adjust the project's scope, timeline, or resources.

10 Examples of Project Approach Baselines

Here are ten solid baselines of project approaches that project managers should consider for their projects:

1. Agile: An iterative approach to project management that emphasizes flexibility, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

2. Waterfall: A linear approach to project management that emphasizes planning and control, with each phase of the project completed before moving on to the next.

3. Hybrid: A combination of agile and waterfall approaches, allowing for flexibility while still maintaining control.

4. Critical Chain: A project management approach that focuses on resource allocation and reducing project duration by identifying and managing bottlenecks.

5. Scrum: A framework for agile project management that emphasizes teamwork, collaboration, and rapid iteration.

6. Lean: A project management approach that focuses on eliminating waste and improving efficiency.

7. Six Sigma: A data-driven approach to project management that focuses on improving quality and reducing defects.

8. Prince2: A structured project management approach that emphasizes planning, control, and communication.

9. PMI: A framework for project management developed by the Project Management Institute that provides a comprehensive approach to managing projects.

10. RAD: A rapid application development approach that emphasizes prototyping, iterative development, and quick feedback loops.

Conclusion:

Developing a project approach can be as simple as calling out the methodology or framework that will be used on the project, or can include a comprehensive explanation of how the methodology or framework will be used. Either way, the project approach is an essential component of creating a well-written project plan. By outlining the methodology or strategy that will be used to complete the project successfully, project managers can ensure that everyone involved in the project is aligned and working towards the same objectives. By considering these ten solid examples of project approaches, project managers can choose the best approach for their specific project needs. Carpe Diem - ML