Project HEADWAY: Yes, You Can Deviate From the Process

 

Processes emerge because there is a perception that they work. Sometimes this is shaped by expert opinion. Sometimes it is because of “best practices.” In many instances they respond to executive whims and desires. In a perfect world, processes work reasonably well most of the time. That also means there are times when what is normally prescribed is not just inappropriate, but may actually undermine what needs to be accomplished. Knowing when to deviate from process—and how—is one of the most important skills for project managers to learn.

Processes emerge because there is a perception that they work. Sometimes this is shaped by expert opinion. Sometimes it is because of “best practices.” In many instances they respond to executive whims and desires. In a perfect world, processes work reasonably well most of the time. That also means there are times when what is normally prescribed is not just inappropriate, but may actually undermine what needs to be accomplished. Knowing when to deviate from process—and how—is one of the most important skills for project managers to learn.