Principles of Healthy Project Management in Small Businesses

As a small business owner, you likely juggle many roles and responsibilities on a daily basis. You may be managing everything from finances to marketing to operations to HR. The complexity of your workload may be further amplified if you are also responsible for client project deliverables. This is just one reason why it is crucial to implement healthy project management practices in your small business that will help you stay organized, focused, and delivering on time and on par. (Other reasons to maintain healthy project management practices include employee satisfaction, quality control and customer satisfaction, and budget management.)

So, how can you implement healthy project management practices in your small business? Here are a few tips:

Define your goals and scope.

Before you start a new project, take time to define what needs to be achieved and what will be required to achieve it. It is important to think through each aspect of the project to identify constraints, potential risks, and assumptions that could impact the project. It can be problematic to assume that all team members have the same level of understanding and knowledge about a project. This assumption can lead to miscommunication, misunderstandings, and mistakes. Challenging assumptions like this can be unpopular, but it is a crucial step to take in making informed decisions and effectively managing your project.

Break down the project into manageable tasks.

First, divide the project into smaller, more manageable chunks. Second, rearrange these tasks either according to the chronological order in which they must be completed or by prioritizing the tasks by importance. Third, assign the tasks to team members and set deadlines for each one. This helps everyone feel the project is attainable, stay focused, and remain accountable.

Use tools to track progress.

There are many free and paid tools available to help you track project progress. Such tools include spreadsheets, Gantt charts, and project management software like Trello.com. Select one that works for you and your team, have everyone on the team learn the tool, and use it consistently. Consistency in this area is one of the most important aspects of project management.

Communicate regularly.

After ensuring everyone involved in the project is aware of the goals, timeline, responsibilities, and how the project will be managed, it is very important to continually communicate about updates or changes. Encourage open communication and be responsive to concerns. Document action items that arise during meetings and plug them into the project management tool with assigned owners and due dates.

Monitor and adjust as needed.

Regularly review progress and identify any issues or roadblocks. Make adjustments as needed to keep the project on track and ensure success.

In conclusion, healthy project management is critical for small businesses that want to stay competitive and profitable. By implementing best practices and leveraging tools and technology, you can keep your projects on budget, on schedule, and of high quality. This can lead to happier employees, increased customer satisfaction, repeat business, and a reputation for excellence. Take the time to invest in healthy project management practices and watch your business thrive.

Thank you for reading this article! If you found it helpful, please let us know here. Do you have questions or need help managing projects in your small business? Schedule a free discovery call here.