A solid plan is a great foundation when it comes to network maintenance projects. This helps define clear roles within the team as well as progressive milestones that you can use to check if you’re on track with your deadlines, once all of that is in place you can then set realistic expectations for the client. Should anything go sideways, it’s important to communicate effectively and as early as possible so that you manage your relationship with the client and consequently handle their expectations.

First thing to understand is that client expectations are the most important, yet the main point will be the scopes of flexibility and priority. Engage in a high level communication to clearly understand the goals Deeply analyze the possible strategies to attack the issues Present it transparently and objectively to the client Agree with them on the priority scopes Obviously clear communication with proven analysis are the main solution , in which knowledge transfer with the client and training can be very effective to be on the same page

Understanding business priorities is also very important here. When deadlines are tight, making sure you deliver the most impactful will help build trust with your stakeholders.