Taking Over a Failing Project

  Business Analysis   Business Case   Communications Management   Cost Management   Organizational Project Management   Risk Management   Strategy   Knowledge Shelf  

Abstract
Continuing to develop a failing project is a big challenge. Understanding the meaning of the project failure, conducting root-cause analysis with proven evidences, and revisiting the business case for the project helps to ensure project success. Motivating the team members, redesigning the solution and developing a prototype or proof of concept, reusing previously built components, tracking, communicating transparently, and empowering the project team with a new work culture can also help to continue the project successfully.

Objective
This article discusses the techniques that would be useful in taking over a failing project and completing it successfully.

Define Project Failure
Usually, the previous project team complains that they weren’t given clear requirements and/or enough time, points at the complexity of the project, and lists few other external factors as reasons for failure. You should interview the project sponsor, key stakeholders, contractors, and key project team members to search for reasons behind the project’s failure. It is also helpful to review project documents, correspondence, management reports, and contracts. Gather as many details as possible as to why the customer wants to continue the project and work culture of the previous project team.

Project failures could be …

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