What best practises can you share, for managing 19 different projects and be on top of all of them at any given moment? HOW do you monitor all simultaneously, and how do you go about keeping track. Any "pearls of wisdom" appreciated! Saving Changes...
No matter how many projects we are involved in, there are always differences in priority, urgency, and importance. Tools like MOSCOW (Must-have, Should-have, Could-have, Won't-have) are invaluable in helping us categorize tasks, ensuring that we focus on the most critical aspects while not losing sight of other important deliverables. The key is creating a structured approach where we can monitor all projects simultaneously without becoming overwhelmed. Regular reviews, clear milestones, and using project management tools like Microsoft Project, Asana, Trello, or Jira can keep everything in check. Additionally, establishing effective communication channels with team members and stakeholders ensures that we're always aligned and ready to adjust when priorities shift. Ultimately, strong organization, prioritization, and constant re-evaluation are essential in managing multiple projects successfully.
No matter how many projects we are involved in, there are always differences in priority, urgency, and importance. Tools like MOSCOW (Must-have, Should-have, Could-have, Won't-have) are invaluable in helping us categorize tasks, ensuring that we focus on the most critical aspects while not losing sight of other important deliverables. The key is creating a structured approach where we can monitor all projects simultaneously without becoming overwhelmed. Regular reviews, clear milestones, and using project management tools like Microsoft Project, Asana, Trello, or Jira can keep everything in check. Additionally, establishing effective communication channels with team members and stakeholders ensures that we're always aligned and ready to adjust when priorities shift. Ultimately, strong organization, prioritization, and constant re-evaluation are essential in managing multiple projects successfully.
Thanks for the feedback Danny - appreciated! Saving Changes...
Margaretha Bezuidenhout To manage 19 projects effectively, use a centralized PM tool to track progress, milestones, and deadlines. Apply PMP principles: define scope clearly for each project, prioritize tasks using a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), and set achievable timelines. Conduct regular status meetings to monitor KPIs and update stakeholders. Utilize risk management plans for proactive issue handling. Delegate tasks based on team strengths and maintain clear communication to ensure alignment across projects. Focus on delivering value within constraints while continuously improving processes. Saving Changes...
I'd take a step back and ask the question - how have you ended up managing 19 concurrent projects as this is well above the norm. SEI's research into multitasking showed that the cost of context switching exceeds the value delivered when someone is working on more than five cognitive things concurrently.
I'd suggest coaching your leadership team to help them understand that focus results in greater value delivered.
I have been in that situation a few times as a portfolio manager. 19 projects means you have less than 30 minutes per project per day. Focus on what are the 1 to 3 next critical elements for each project to keep them moving.
Realistically, probably less than 1/3 of those projects have something on the critical path today that I can actually affect so timing is important. When today is the day where you can knock off some key actions in your plan, prioritize those actions because the marching army is held for you. Saving Changes...
Keith MelvinSumaria Systems, LLCDayton, OH, United States
Magaretha,
I'd like ask how did you get so many efforts to manage. That's a tough ask for anyone. Is there management beneath you who can manage the day-to-day aspects and brief you.
I'm a fan of digital dashboards. We use a combination of dashboards, status briefings, and meetings to keep up with everything. Saving Changes...
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