Back to basics

When things go wrong – and they can so very quickly and spectacularly – it’s usually small basic things that have caused the problem. It doesn’t matter how big the problem is or how long you look at it – the fundamentals are usually very simple. It also requires quick action and collaboration with all stakeholders to resolve. 

If you are going to implement a major change within an organization, you need to have buy-in, i.e. there needs to be value for all stakeholders. Many organisations need to adapt and recognize that they need to change, but not all are willing to do what is needed. 

If you are going to drive the change, you need a seat at the table – to build the right relationships – and a sanctioned budget. Do not under promise or over deliver to impress people – simply consistently do what needs to be done to deliver the change within the agreed timelines and within the sanctioned budget.

So many issues can be avoided! For example, if you are going to use an external supplier, make sure they are credible – that they actually have the skill and resources to deliver – and make sure the contract is fixed price. So many times, I have seen programmes go wrong where the suppliers are simply not credible and have no incentive to fix problems. Tomorrow is another day and another invoice. 

Follow recognised methods – such as PRINCE2 or Managing Successful Programmes (MSP) – that are appropriately applied to your organisation/environment. Make sure that the value of the change is realised and communicated.

Don’t be a prima donna! – Always be constructive, collaborative (i.e. seek consensus), but be assertive. 

So, when things go wrong and you need to run into the burning building, go back to basics and act accordingly.