What do you do when, no matter what, the people on a Team do not follow the communication plans that have been established? The plan was written down, passed onto others, communicated both orally and written, time and time again - but the members of the Team don’t always follow it. Basic project management techniques are almost thought of as a waste of time, and just busy work. It’s very frustrating. Any thoughts? Saving Changes...
Michael WoodProject Manager / Business Analyst / Business Process Improvement Guru| Independent ContractorGig Harbor, Wa, United States
My advice, conduct a GAP analysis session and have someone facilitate the discussion who does not have a dog in the fight. Begin the session with a set of defined objectives that are not negotiable related to the requirement to communicate the project status and orchestration issues to the project's stakeholders. In that objective quanitfy the what management requires from the project team related to cross functional communications. Then take a flip chart. Draw a line down the middle. On the left side post the groups issues with the current situatiation. On the right possible alternatives. Only accept issues that relate to the communication plan and none about individuals. Do not accept issues that challenge the objectives set forth. Have to team shape a new plan that meets the communication objectives and hopefully resolves their non compliance to the existing plan.
After that, after they have had a chance to contribute to a solution be ready to write up non compliers with memos to their personnel file. Most companies have a 3 strikes and your out policy and many have a one notice last notice for insubordination. Just be clear in your own mind how far you are willing to go if after the plan is recalibrated people still don't comply. I have found that when there is no penalty for non compliance, non compliance flourishes.
Good Luck. Let us know how things work out. Saving Changes...
