Issue link: https://info.corpedgroup.com/i/414837
Phase II: Planning Pitfall Assumption: "This project should not take very long to complete." The greatest pitfall in the planning phase is the assumption that the project will not take long to accomplish. This is compounded if phase one was performed incorrectly or not done at all because the timeframes are then based on incorrect information. Therefore much of the project may have to be redone to accommodate scope creep that should have been identified during the scoping of the project. To avoid this, do not overlook the following during the planning phase: 1. the multitude of small details that make up a project; 2. all the interdependencies of tasks; and 3. the other work that team members must continue to do in addition to this project. Every project is a lot of work, but resist the urge to put it off until it cannot be put off any more or until it becomes a Q1 situation. As the project manager, it is helpful to break planning into two separate steps in order to see the true scope of the project. Remember, even as deadline pressures set in, the brainstorming process is still crucial. By skipping this step, you can miss the details that create realistic timeframes. Tools such as mind mapping, fish boning and post-it brainstorming can be helpful for people to see what is needed to accomplish the project. In the planning phase, make sure to: 1. brainstorm of all the tasks; and 2. create some type of a formal work breakdown structure (WBS), i.e. a Gantt chart. Remember, do not use a Gantt chart to put together a project plan without any brainstorming. You and your team will realize later that there were many steps or dependencies that were never identified. This can lead to big problems when management expects you to manage the project according to the Gantt chart, which is actually incomplete or erroneous. This makes the brainstorming phase even more crucial in order to avoid unrealistic expectations or blame from management for not accurately informing and adhering to the timeframes. 10