Understanding the Difference: Project Delivery vs. Value Delivery

Hey Project Leaders! In this issue of The Unboxed PM, we're delving into a critical element of project leadership that often gets lost in the hustle of deadlines and deliverables—the distinction between project delivery and project value.

As project leaders, we absolutely must move beyond the checklist and plan and unveil the value proposition to our key stakeholders.

It's easy to get caught up in the meticulous planning, the Gantt charts, and the pressure of meeting deadlines. However, let's pause for a moment to reflect on a fundamental question—Are we merely delivering projects, or are we delivering real value?

This sounds simple, but it's not easy.

Meet Emily, a brilliant project leader known for flawless project delivery. However, despite her impeccable timelines and risk mitigation, recognition kept missing her. In a pivotal moment, Emily realized the missing link—the subtle yet profound distinction between delivering projects and delivering value.

Inspired by this revelation, Emily embraced a client-centric approach, articulating clear value objectives alongside project milestones. Her projects transformed into catalysts for positive change, and stakeholders took notice.

In the next review cycle, Emily's efforts were met with well-deserved recognition and a promotion. Her story is a reminder: while delivery is expected, it's the strategic focus on value that propels us from competence to excellence.??

Let's take it a bit deeper.

Understanding the Difference: Project Delivery vs. Value Delivery

Project Delivery:

• ?? Checklists and Timelines: Project delivery often revolves around completing tasks, adhering to timelines, and ensuring that all components are in place. It's the tangible, measurable aspect of our work—the Gantt charts coming to life.
• ?? Risk Mitigation: While essential, project delivery tends to prioritize risk mitigation and issue resolution, ensuring that the project stays on course and within predefined parameters.

Value Delivery:

• ?? Holistic Impact: Delivering value transcends the checkboxes. It's about understanding the holistic impact of our projects on the organization, stakeholders, and end-users. How does our work contribute to the broader mission and goals?
• ?? Outcome-Focused: Value delivery is outcome-focused. It's not just about completing tasks; it's about achieving meaningful outcomes that align with the strategic objectives of the organization.

?? Why Does It Matter?

1. Client-Centric Approach: Shifting the focus from project delivery to value delivery puts the client at the center. What truly matters to them? What outcomes will make a tangible difference in their operations or experiences?
2. Adaptability and Innovation: Embracing value delivery encourages adaptability and innovation. It's about constantly assessing and reassessing whether the current trajectory is the most effective way to achieve the desired impact.
3. Measuring Success Differently: Project success isn't solely determined by meeting deadlines. It's measured by the positive change and lasting value generated. This mindset shift fosters a culture of continuous improvement and client satisfaction.

As an Unboxed PM, you must realize that this is where our power skills come in. According to the Project Management Institute (PMI), power skills are the behaviors that enable people to succeed. Unboxing your power skills will set you apart and position you for advancement as a project leader.

So how can you integrate value into your project leadership journey? I'm glad you asked. You need to focus on Bridging the Gap: Integrating Value into Project Leadership. Let's take a look.?? Work on:

1. Defining Clear Objectives: Clearly articulate the value objectives alongside project milestones. What specific outcomes will define success beyond the completion of tasks?
2. Continuous Stakeholder Engagement: Regularly engage with stakeholders to understand their evolving needs and expectations. Their insights are invaluable in shaping the project's value proposition.
3. Consistently Encourage a Culture of Innovation: Create an environment where team members feel empowered to suggest innovative solutions that enhance the project's overall impact.

As Unboxed project leaders, let's not merely deliver projects; let's be architects of value. The true mark of our success lies not just in the completion of tasks but in the enduring value we bring to our organizations and stakeholders.

Stay Unboxed, stay value-focused and let's continue shaping projects that make a lasting difference.

About The Author: Tareka Wheeler, PMP

Tareka Wheeler is a Certified Project Management Professional (PMP) with more than 20 years of project and program management experience in the public and private sectors. She is a wife, mom, Senior Project Management Executive, Career & Work-life Strategist, and Podcast Host.

She often lends her voice and expertise to various podcasts and conferences, and Tareka serves as a mentor for professionals seeking to advance in project management.

As founder of the career development and consulting company, T. Wheeler Strategic Solutions, her team specializes in empowering professionals and organizations to accelerate their growth and strategically achieve their goals through project management, personal branding, and strategic planning.

Tareka is also the founder of The Unboxed PM, a movement and community designed to reshape the narrative for women in project leadership and empower them to boldly take up space, obliterate gender disparities in project leadership, and secure project leader and executive roles.

When she's not busy serving, leading, and strategizing, you'll find her at home with her husband, spending time with her three children, or hanging out with her family's two fur babies.

#TheUnboxedPM #ProjectLeadership #ValueDelivery #StrategicImpact