How do you adjust to new project methods?

1 Understand the method

Before you dive into the project tasks, you need to understand the basics of the project method you are using. What are the main principles, phases, roles, and deliverables of the method? How does it differ from the methods you are familiar with? What are the benefits and challenges of the method? You can research online, read books, take courses, or ask experts to learn more about the method. You can also create a cheat sheet or a reference guide to help you remember the key aspects of the method.

2 Communicate with the team

Communication is essential for any project, but especially when you are using a new project method. You need to communicate clearly and frequently with your project manager, team members, stakeholders, and clients about the project objectives, scope, schedule, budget, quality, and risks. You also need to communicate how the project method affects your roles and responsibilities, expectations, feedback, and reporting. You can use various tools and channels, such as emails, chats, calls, meetings, or dashboards, to communicate effectively and efficiently.

3 Follow the process

Each project method has its own process and rules that you need to follow to ensure the project runs smoothly and meets the standards. You need to follow the process as closely as possible and avoid skipping or changing steps without a valid reason. You also need to respect the roles and boundaries of each team member and stakeholder and avoid micromanaging or interfering with their work. You can use checklists, templates, or workflows to help you follow the process and track your progress.

4 Be flexible and open-minded

One of the biggest challenges of adjusting to a new project method is dealing with uncertainty and change. You may face situations where you have to make decisions with incomplete information, adapt to changing requirements or priorities, or learn new skills or tools. You need to be flexible and open-minded to cope with these situations and embrace the opportunities for improvement and innovation. You can use feedback, lessons learned, or best practices to help you learn from your mistakes and successes and improve your performance.

5 Seek support and guidance

You don't have to adjust to a new project method alone. You can seek support and guidance from your project manager, team members, mentors, coaches, or peers who have experience or expertise in the project method. You can ask them questions, share your concerns, request feedback, or seek advice on how to handle specific issues or challenges. You can also join online communities, forums, or groups where you can network, learn, and exchange ideas with other project coordinators who are using the same or similar project methods.

6 Evaluate and improve

Finally, you need to evaluate and improve your performance and results as you adjust to a new project method. You need to measure and monitor your progress, achievements, and challenges using quantitative and qualitative data and indicators. You also need to review and reflect on your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats using self-assessment, feedback, or surveys. You can use tools such as SWOT analysis, SMART goals, or KPIs to help you evaluate and improve your project coordination skills and outcomes.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?