Swift and expert intervention can get a failing project back on course, preventing a disaster.
Project heath check and rescue is a highly effective service for clients struggling to deliver a project or programme.
The process provides a clear insight into the current condition of the project management and what actions, if any, are needed to ensure successful delivery and enable benefit realisation.
Terms of reference are agreed with the client in advance of the assignment and confirmed within a letter of agreement.
We conduct a three stage, independent health check using sensitivity based risk assessment techniques and a best practice project management model. A report is produced highlighting the areas of risk and recommending actions to achieve an effective recovery. This is followed by direct and focused intervention.
The approach is consistent for all assignments irrespective of any methodology that might currently be employed.
First Stage
We quickly get to understand the project, the current approach to project management and the business context in which it is being run.
We validate the objectives and benefits, and the changes being made in relation to the organisation's imperatives. We collect information and review documentary evidence to confirm all elements of the project are under control and being actively managed.
In addition to the documentary evidence one-to-one sessions with the key team members enables the capture of more subjective views. Time is spent with the business owner, project sponsor, project manager and other team members.
Second Stage
The second stage involves identifying the sensitivities and evaluating the risks. These are individually scored in terms of probability and impact to determine severity. Actions are recommended to avoid, mitigate or contain the risks in proportion to severity.
Findings are composed into an incisive report covering the project's status and necessary actions.
Final Stage
The report is previewed with the client to ensure the style and tone are appropriate to create a constructive outcome. The final report is published and presented so that the way forward can be agreed.
For large-scale projects, the whole process normally takes about ten to fifteen man-days of effort. Programme costs are proportionally more.
Project Rescue
After the health check, we provide any required training, coaching and mentoring support needed to help your team address the risks; or provide you with direct intervention to get the project back on course.
Action is appropriate to what is reasonable and affordable. The aim is to move you towards certainty of benefit realisation.
Please contact us at Verdandi to obtain further information.