How can you use PM to improve performance in a project-based organization?

1 Define project goals and expectations

The first step of PM is to define clear and specific project goals and expectations for each team member and stakeholder. You should use the SMART criteria (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) to set project goals that are aligned with the organizational vision and mission. You should also communicate the project scope, deliverables, roles, responsibilities, and standards of quality and performance to everyone involved. This will help you create a shared understanding of what needs to be done, why, and how.

2 Monitor and measure progress

The second step of PM is to monitor and measure the progress of the project and the performance of the team members. You should use various tools and methods, such as dashboards, reports, milestones, feedback surveys, and performance reviews, to track and evaluate the project outcomes and outputs, as well as the team behaviors and competencies. You should also establish regular check-ins and meetings to review the project status, identify issues and risks, and make adjustments as needed. This will help you ensure that the project is on track, on budget, and on quality, and that the team members are meeting their goals and expectations.

3 Provide feedback and coaching

The third step of PM is to provide feedback and coaching to the team members and stakeholders. You should use both formal and informal feedback mechanisms, such as recognition, praise, constructive criticism, suggestions, and guidance, to acknowledge the strengths and weaknesses of the team members, and to help them improve their skills and performance. You should also use coaching techniques, such as active listening, questioning, and goal-setting, to support the team members in their learning and development, and to empower them to solve problems and overcome challenges. This will help you create a culture of continuous improvement, feedback, and learning in the PBO.

4 Reward and recognize achievements

The fourth step of PM is to reward and recognize the achievements of the team members and stakeholders. You should use both intrinsic and extrinsic rewards, such as autonomy, mastery, purpose, incentives, bonuses, promotions, and awards, to motivate and appreciate the team members for their contributions and results. You should also celebrate the project success and share the lessons learned with the organization and the customers. This will help you build trust, loyalty, and engagement among the team members and stakeholders, and to enhance the reputation and value of the PBO.

5 Review and improve PM practices

The fifth step of PM is to review and improve the PM practices in the PBO. You should use various sources of data and feedback, such as project evaluations, performance appraisals, customer satisfaction surveys, and best practices benchmarks, to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of the PM process and tools. You should also involve the team members and stakeholders in the review and improvement process, and solicit their opinions and suggestions on how to improve the PM practices. This will help you identify the gaps and opportunities for improvement, and to implement the necessary changes and innovations to improve the PM performance in the PBO.

6 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?