Hold Fast: Managing Design Teams When Projects Go Sideways by @aaroni

TL;DR: We can't control everything. Stay the course. Remain flexible. 

The number one thing that ruins projects is PEOPLE. Departments are thrown together to accomplish projects. These people have internal politics. That team of people can often be distributed in several different locations. Sometimes people have different understandings of each others roles. Of course, every project has limited budgets and lofty goals. All this can create an environment of chaos. 

One we start to understand these problems, we can begin to see the warning signs to look for before, during and after projects. 

Shipping a product is just the beginning. Sometimes these problems last long after the delivery. That's why you need a plan for when things go wrong. 

This is PROJECT MANAGEMENT. 

Design managers should put an equal amount of effort into contingency plans, for when things go sideways. They will and we'll need them. 

We also need to strive for transparency. Share the process with everyone involved. Communicate clearly and freely. Invite them to question everything in a productive fashion. This will prevent frustrations and help us all succeed, as a team. 

Take responsibility for areas in which he your team has missed the mark. This doesn't come naturally. If we can start to do this, we can start to get back on track with the project. 

Avoid unnecessary conflict within your team. Call things like you see them but keep moving toward a positive resolution. 

Admit it when you don't have an answer. People don't like excuses. They know when you're blowing smoke. Share a plan of action to find the answer. That plan should be specific.

What about stakeholders and business partners? 

Build trust with them. The other team has to know that you've got their back. Worth together with them to find the resolution.

Manage the process

Have an agreed-upon process in place provides a starting point for troubleshooting what caused the project to go off track. 

Be prepared to ditch your process, if needed. Look at your team and find a way to make the needed adjustments. Regroup. Improve. Remain flexible. Flexibility is the key to weathering project storms. 

Remember:

No two projects are alike.

Do everything you can to avoid blind spots.

Use project kickoffs, planning, etc to inform your strategy.