To stay productive amidst changes, reassess priorities and focus on high-impact tasks. Communicate clearly with your team and remain flexible in your approach. Time-block your day and embrace progress over perfection to maintain momentum.

I disagree with the notion that shifting timelines should always be absorbed by the service provider—it’s simply unfair. That's why contracts are essential. Be clear about objectives and timelines from the start. Include a clause that changes in scope mean changes in timelines. Always add extra days or weeks as a buffer. Remember, what matters most is the quality of the final project delivered. Rushing to meet unrealistic timelines can compromise quality, and that doesn’t benefit anyone. Stay firm on quality, even if it means pushing back against timeline pressures.

Project timelines will inevitably change and as a project lead it is important to be able to adapt to the change, whether its in scope or a change in the timeline. A few important steps to take to (1) communicate to the relevant stakeholders (2) adjust workplan to accommodate for the change, ensuring that you include a representative from each area, if there are several different stakeholders and (3) identify areas where there may be a higher potential for changes in the scope and timeline and build in a cushion. In generally it is always a good idea to build in extra time.

This is not something new. However, such points should always be discussed during the Project kick off meeting and with Steering committee on how to deal with such situation if there is a sudden change in Scope of Work which may impact the Project Deadlines. If all the stakeholders are communicated and aligned about such unforeseen situation. We can move forward by re-evaluating the risk, shifting the priority of the task and with proper change management process. Communication, Collaboration & Support are the most crucial elements for successful execution of any project. If these are in-place no one can stop you.