Effective execution in a project is essential in achieving desired outcomes. There are three key components to consider when it comes to optimizing project outcomes: development approach, delivery cadence, and project life cycle.
First, the development approach refers to the method used to create and evolve the product, service, or result during the project life cycle. This can include predictive, iterative, incremental, adaptive, or hybrid methods. The type of deliverable(s) and the development approach will influence the number and cadence for project deliveries.
Second, delivery cadence refers to the timing and frequency of project deliverables. Projects can have a single delivery, multiple deliveries, or periodic deliveries. Single delivery projects deliver at the end of the project, while multiple delivery projects have a series of components delivered at different times throughout the project. Periodic delivery projects have a fixed delivery schedule, such as monthly or bimonthly. Another option is continuous delivery, which is the practice of delivering feature increments immediately to customers through small batches of work and automation technology. This is often used for digital products.
Third, the project life cycle refers to the series of phases that a project passes through from its start to its completion. The deliverable approach and desired delivery cadence will determine the project life cycle and its phases.
It's important to note that the relationship between development, cadence, and life cycle is interconnected. The type of project deliverable(s) determines how it can be developed, which in turn influences the number and cadence of project deliveries. This, in turn, determines the project life cycle and its phases.
From a product management perspective, the focus is on delivering benefits and value throughout the product life cycle. This can involve multiple development cycles as well as maintenance activities. It's beneficial to have stable project teams that are focused on one product, as they can apply learning about the product, stakeholders, and the market to respond to trends and stay competitive.
Effective project execution also involves aligning project activities with business objectives and ensuring that stakeholders are engaged and informed throughout the project. This includes regularly communicating progress, managing risks and issues, and measuring performance against key performance indicators.
In summary, optimizing project outcomes requires careful consideration of development approach, delivery cadence, and project life cycle. Effective execution also involves aligning project activities with business objectives and engaging stakeholders throughout the process. By effectively managing these components, organizations can increase the likelihood of successfully delivering desired results and realizing business value.
Key concepts:
- A Deliverable is any unique and verifiable product, result, or capability to perform a service that is required to be produced to complete a process, phase, or project.
- Development Approach is a method used to create and evolve the product, service, or result during the project life cycle, such as a predictive, iterative, incremental, adaptive, or hybrid method.
- Cadence is a rhythm of activities conducted throughout the project.
- A Project Phase is a collection of logically related project activities that culminates in the completion of one or more deliverables.
- Project Life Cycle is the series of phases that a project passes through from its start to its completion. It is the stages a product goes through from its conception to withdrawal from the market.
- Continuous Delivery is the practice of delivering feature increments immediately to customers, often through the use of small batches of work and automation technology.
- Stakeholder is an individual or group who has an interest in or is impacted by a project or business.