Project-Management.com’s Top 3 Software RecommendationsLet Monday.com work for you.Start Free TrialWork smarter with Wrike.Try for FreeIncrease productivity with Smartsheet.Try Smartsheet for FreeAs a project manager, you’ll hear every excuse in the book as to why your resource can’t complete their task on time. AoYou didn’t give me enough information. AoI was given another task. AoI didn’t expect it would take so long. If people are rushed, they can get sick, give inaccurate estimates, or fail to deliver on their promises. A buffer can help reduce the amount required to complete your project plan.
A buffer is a good idea to protect the project deadline. Multiple studies have shown that 44% of projects are not completed on time, regardless of traditional project management methods. 70% of projects are reduced in scope and 30% die before completion. These are not encouraging stats. These are not encouraging statistics. However, there are four ways to add buffer to your project.
A buffer is a lifesaver.
I remember asking one my designers if he needed additional cushion to complete his task. I wanted to balance his work load. Buffers should not be included in your timetable. Be realistic. We will deliver.’ We didn’t deliver. I was thankful that I had the buffer to assist the team in an emergency. I learned to add buffers to all tasks in the timelines I created. I don’t always add a whole month to every line item. But 1-3 days can save you the day, no matter what your project team requests.
Add project resources to your project plan to reduce project risks
Each project team is identified as a potential risk in my status updates. Each team has a backlog, and competition. They may also become ill or fail to deliver on time, which can have an impact on the delivery of your project. To discuss priorities and deadlines, you can schedule a weekly meeting for 15 minutes with each team. If a deadline is fast approaching, it is easy to escalate to your stakeholders since you identified the resource at the beginning. Because you raised the flag at beginning, the stakeholder can decide to reshuffle priorities or be prepared for a missed deadline.
Two timelines
This tip, although it may sound a little cheeky and time-consuming at first glance, will allow you to create two timelines. One timeline is for you and one for your stakeholders. The timeline for your team shows the estimated time taken each resource. The buffer is used to prevent any unexpected delays. This buffer prevents you having to update the timeline if a deadline is missed. It’s already in your external timeline.
Sometimes, not telling your team about the deadline can save you time for the future. If they don’t feel they have enough time, your internal team can use the buffer you provided to start their task later. It happens to everyone at some point. You get a call from someone in an urgent situation and must complete the task you have been assigned. It will happen, and you will be the project supervisor who can give them another day to complete their deliverable.
Historical data is your friend
After working with the same team for a while, you can use historical information to help you choose your team. Designer A may know that Designer B requires 2 additional contributors. You can use historical data for this purpose.
