"A decision is only an idea if it does not have a funded plan"
Are you managing a project or working in an organization "that just can't make decisions"? If so, perhaps you need a new approach to recognizing the difference between IDEAS and DECISIONS.
Most project managers learn how to manage Risks, Issues and Actions (click here for more information). However, making project decisions can be tricky. And many decisions need to be made outside the four walls of the project.
Ideas vs. Decisions: Let's say one of the project decision-makers has a good idea. Everyone nods their heads in agreement. The project manager documents the "decision". And then.... often... nothing happens. The decision-maker wonders why the project manager isn't listening!
In this scenario, a DECISION has NOT been made. Rather, an IDEA has been articulated.
Managing Decisions: The Practical Project Manager knows an idea is not a decision until it is supported with a funded action plan.
Step 1: Documents ideas. Record an action item to verify approved funding & resources along with an implementation plan to transform the idea into something real.
Step 2: Obtain funding and develop an implementation plan. Analyze internal and external project factors to clearly understand impacts. Determine the cost or funding needs of the decision (in terms of budget, timeline, resource allocation, or scope changes). Adjustments in the overall project may need to be made to accommodate the decision.
Step 3: Document and communicate outcomes. Decisions can be documented in the project's Issue/Risk/Action log. Document all outcomes for ideas: ideas that are approved as decisions, not approved, or are placed on hold. Work activities can be incorporated into the project schedule.
Are you managing a project or working in an organization "that just can't make decisions"? If so, perhaps you need a new approach to recognizing the difference between IDEAS and DECISIONS.
Most project managers learn how to manage Risks, Issues and Actions (click here for more information). However, making project decisions can be tricky. And many decisions need to be made outside the four walls of the project.
Ideas vs. Decisions: Let's say one of the project decision-makers has a good idea. Everyone nods their heads in agreement. The project manager documents the "decision". And then.... often... nothing happens. The decision-maker wonders why the project manager isn't listening!
In this scenario, a DECISION has NOT been made. Rather, an IDEA has been articulated.
Managing Decisions: The Practical Project Manager knows an idea is not a decision until it is supported with a funded action plan.
Step 1: Documents ideas. Record an action item to verify approved funding & resources along with an implementation plan to transform the idea into something real.
 |
| Document Ideas |
Step 2: Obtain funding and develop an implementation plan. Analyze internal and external project factors to clearly understand impacts. Determine the cost or funding needs of the decision (in terms of budget, timeline, resource allocation, or scope changes). Adjustments in the overall project may need to be made to accommodate the decision.
 |
| Facilitate Analysis and Funding |
Step 3: Document and communicate outcomes. Decisions can be documented in the project's Issue/Risk/Action log. Document all outcomes for ideas: ideas that are approved as decisions, not approved, or are placed on hold. Work activities can be incorporated into the project schedule.
 |
| Document Decisions |
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