How to save a "failing" project
It is not unusual for me to receive a call from an association that sounds something like this: "We implemented a new AMS in the past year, everyone on staff hates the new system, and this whole project is failing. What can we do to save it?"
While every project is different, in most cases there are three things that should be done immediately to save the project:
- Create a "laundry list" of all the issues that need to be addressed. This can be accomplished by holding "bitch sessions" with the staff (which in itself can be cathartic). The key here is to document all the issues raised.
- Once the list is established, identify the key priorities AND the low-hanging fruit (issues that can be fixed quickly and easily).
- Establish a regular cadence (weekly) of communicating all progress to all staff. (This is standard database PR, something you should already be doing!)
The objectives here are straightforward: Demonstrating that you hear the issues and understand them (documentation); demonstrating that you're going to address them (low-hanging fruit); and communicating your wins (database PR).
In my experience, most projects are salvageable, and taking these three steps immediately is a great place to start.
![]()
Wes's Wednesday Wisdom Archives
Problems without solutions are not problems, they are facts of life
Problems without solutions are not problems, they are facts of life “Problems without solutions are […]
Perfect is not possible
Perfect is not possible We’ve all heard the phrase “Perfect is the enemy of good” and […]
“Different” isn’t necessarily better or worse.
“Different” isn’t necessarily better or worse. One of the biggest challenges I face when working […]
The Rule of 100 and 1,000 and automation
The Rule of 100 and 1,000 and automation I originally coined the rule of 100 […]
Once you know, what will you do?
Once you know, what will you do? I’ve yet to meet a client who didn’t […]
If it’s not in your AMS, why not?
If it’s not in your AMS, why not? I like to tell my clients they’ll […]
Why checkboxes and tags are awesome and dangerous
Why checkboxes and tags are awesome and dangerous One of the most common functions in […]
Don’t miss obvious engagement data
Don’t miss obvious engagement data What I’ve experienced with my clients over the years is […]
All data requires active management
All data requires active management It’s a simple fact of data management that is often […]
Documentation is critical for consistency
Documentation is critical for consistency There are so many reasons why documenting your data management […]
