What are the most effective ways to evaluate project success?

1 Project objectives

The first step to evaluate project success is to define and agree on the project objectives, which should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Project objectives should reflect the desired outcomes and benefits of the project, as well as the key performance indicators (KPIs) that will be used to track and monitor progress and results. Project objectives should be aligned with the business case, the stakeholder expectations, and the project scope.

4 Project communication

The fourth aspect to evaluate is the project communication, which is the exchange of information and knowledge among the project team, the stakeholders, and the users. Project communication should be planned, executed, and controlled effectively, using communication management processes and tools, such as communication plans, channels, methods, and reports. Project communication should also be evaluated in terms of its frequency, clarity, relevance, and feedback.

5 Project team

The fifth aspect to evaluate is the project team, which is the group of people who work together to achieve the project objectives. Project team should be developed, motivated, and led efficiently, using human resource management processes and tools, such as team charter, roles and responsibilities, skills matrix, performance appraisal, and recognition. Project team should also be evaluated in terms of its cohesion, collaboration, productivity, and morale.

6 Project lessons

The sixth and final aspect to evaluate is the project lessons, which are the learnings and insights that can be derived from the project experience. Project lessons should be captured, documented, and shared systematically, using knowledge management processes and tools, such as lessons learned register, repository, and report. Project lessons should also be evaluated in terms of their applicability, usefulness, and transferability.

By using these six aspects as a framework, you can evaluate project success in a comprehensive and balanced way, and identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and improvements of your IT projects.

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?