Managing a high-stakes consulting project from afar challenges team dynamics. To ensure seamless collaboration:
- Establish regular check-ins using video conferencing to maintain face-to-face interaction.
- Utilize collaborative tools like shared documents and project management software to keep everyone on the same page.
- Encourage transparency in workload and availability to foster trust and accountability within the team.
How have you overcome communication barriers in remote projects? Share your strategies.
Communications itself is about clear vision and clear objectives whether you are sitting remote or onsite will not matter much if your team is committed enough to deliver the project. Make sure that the team you are working with is comfortable and is not micro managed. Clearly discuss the deliverables every day and utilize the project management tools efficiently . Further mark tasks and accomplishment daily. Rewards for the achievements within the team will motivate them further to keep the progress at the pace required to complete and deliver the project on time. Remember : Team culture depends upon the project deliverables. Maintain a healthy culture :)
- Big picture: ensure everyone in the team is aware of the big picture/final objective of the project. Breaking down the problem statement into smaller tasks, while helpful in managing the day to day delivery aspect of the project, may pose a challenge in a remote team setup, particularly in linear or waterfall projects. - Effective communication: this is to avoid any rework. If needed, over communicate internally to ensure everyone understands what is to be done. - Project Management: Use a tool to track project developments/improve performance etc. Identify any potential delays and act proactively.
On one of my projects supporting the integration of two large organisations I worked with my team and the client's team to foster a sense of community that boosted creativity and communication. We embeded agile practices into the client's organisation to align everyone to standard way of working enabling the successful design of new and unique customer journeys that enabled consensus across the client's teams. In addition we delivered extensive training to support adoption of new agile ways of working, and organised innovation sessions and technical demonstrations to showcase everyone what was being developed.
Managing a high-stakes consulting project remotely can present communication challenges, so start by implementing regular check-ins and virtual meetings to maintain a consistent flow of information. For example, using a platform like Microsoft Teams allows you to set up dedicated channels for different aspects of the project, enabling quick, organized communication. Additionally, leverage video calls for critical discussions to ensure clarity and connection. Incorporating project management tools can also help keep everyone on the same page by tracking progress, assigning tasks, and setting deadlines. By creating a structured communication plan and using the right tools, you can keep your team aligned and engaged, even from a distance.