October 13, 2020

Planning for a Successful Implementation

Running a successful IT project is no easy feat. However, if you’re working with CloudWave, have no fear; we have done this before! CloudWave has a team of highly professional project managers (PM) that are ready to guide you through the process. In fact, many carry Project Management Professional (PMP) certifications from Project Management Institute (PMI) and follow PMI standard practices during implementations. If you’re handling your project without outside help, make sure you assign an internal resource to serve as a project manager with responsibility for keeping things on track. Here are some tips that we employ to ensure every one of our projects is a success.

Of particular importance is the planning phase. This phase can set the tone for the duration of the effort. This time will be spent identifying requirements, gathering information, establishing communication lines, and preparing the team to focus on the tasks and timelines ahead. For that matter, this is also when the PM will seek to refine details and determine the timeline, then set realistic expectations for the implementation. The project plan will define critical milestones ahead, and when they are expected to be completed.

You can help your PM lead you to success. Prepare your internal team and help provide clarity on the scope of effort and goals. Do this by including them in project communications and meetings when necessary. Ensure you identify any anticipated risks or hinderances that might affect the upcoming work. Providing the right resources and resolving any identified issues in a timely manner goes a long way to keep the timeline in check. If a test period is included in the effort, thorough testing during that time will ensure success at go live. Finally, once the project is under way, stay up to date with weekly status reports and reach out to your PM if there are any questions.

These tips just cover a few areas involved in the overall success of an implementation. With some planning, focus, and communication, your project will be well-positioned for success!

Andrew Branning is the Director of the Project Management Office and Quality at CloudWave, and a Chief Master Sergeant in the U.S. Air Force Reserve.