Far-Sighted: Keep an Eye On the Action

  PM Network  

No project team is without its issues, but things get even more complicated when people are working in different locations. When team members aren’t together, assumptions and expectations can cause frequent miscommunications. People working remotely often feel isolated because they typically interact less with other team members. There’s also usually less collaboration, and team bonding can suffer. vDespite the obstacles, virtual teams are a fact of life, and all the standard good project management practices still apply: establishing a charter, communications plan, detailed project plan, etc.

Here are some issues that are especially important when working with remote members. I expect that those who have managed virtual teams will quickly nod their heads in agreement as they make their way down the list. I’ve offered some of my own advice, but I’d challenge you to think about your own solutions—and if they’re effective.

Talk with your team. From the start, draw on the ideas of everyone on your team for the best ways to collaborate. Then periodically survey the team for what’s working well and what’s not.

Set communication expectations. Think about accessibility while considering typical work hours for you and your team. What are reasonable response times to e-mails, for example? How will you handle status briefings…

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