197 posts from: Reforming Project Management
Toyota’s Lesson for Project Managers
(Indexed 2010-02-10):
Manage projects for learning while coping with uncertainty
Lean Projects Are Defined by Lean Behaviors
(Indexed 2009-08-19):
There's a shift under way from lean tools to lean tool users. Lean behaviors trump lean tools. It's about time.
Project Appraisals Are Dead…Long Live Project Appraisals
(Indexed 2009-06-14):
Our brain is telling us something different about leadership.
Lean Project Implementation Is Not Adoption
(Indexed 2009-06-02):
Only a change in mindset and behaviors produces a lean project.
Social Media for Supporting Projects
(Indexed 2009-06-01):
I did an interview with Bas de Baar via Skype video. We discussed how my company is using collaborative tools in support of our clients' projects. Enjoy! Tags: asides2009 Hal for Reforming Project Management, . |Permalink |No comment |Add todel.icio.usPost tags: collaboration, lean, teams© Hal for Reforming Project Management, Feed enhanced by [...]
Project Blogs Never Been Easier nor More Useful
(Indexed 2009-05-29):
Add a project blog for more team collaboration.
Project Performance Reviews Meets Microblogging
(Indexed 2009-05-28):
Project performance reviews are dead; long live performance reviews. A standard practice on projects is to conduct a lessons learned (post mortem) at the end of a project. In my opinion it doesn't produce much value. The current project is over so can't benefit from what is said. The project team [...]
Pursuing an Elegant Foreword
(Indexed 2009-05-28):
Did you catch the Foreword to In Pursuit of Elegance? Guy Kawasaki wrote, "Less is the new more." Easy to learn: symmetry, seduction, subtraction, and sustainability. Very valuable to do. Step 1: Read Matt's book!! just 140 keystrokes. Tags: asides2009 Hal for Reforming Project Management, . |Permalink |No comment |Add todel.icio.usPost tags: [...]
Big Day for Project Managers Designers
(Indexed 2009-05-19):
Matthew May has another hit book. In Pursuit of Elegance, Why the Best Ideas Have Something Missing challenges conventional wisdom of good design.
Big Thinking Day for Project Managers
(Indexed 2009-04-27):
Big Thinking Day for Project ManagersA week, or so, ago I wrote a quick review of Michael Port's
Lean Project Blog 50 Posts and Growing
(Indexed 2009-04-26):
The Lean Project Coaches hit the 50 posts mark on Friday. Quite a milestone for just 6 weeks blogging at Coaches Corner. They are writing on all aspects of lean projects. Tap into that for your projects. Tags: asides2009 Hal for Reforming Project Management, . |Permalink |No comment |Add todel.icio.usPost [...]
Beginner’s Mind Leads to Mastery
(Indexed 2009-04-23):
Chris Slivon shares a bit of her journey in being a lean coach in the postKnowing and Not Knowing where she and others write for Lean Project Consulting's Coaches Corner. Tags: asides2009 Hal for Reforming Project Management, . |Permalink |No comment |Add todel.icio.usPost tags: © Hal for Reforming Project Management, Feed enhanced by [...]
Does Reliability Matter in Project Planning?
(Indexed 2009-04-22):
How good is project planning? Measure task reliability to know.
Have Project? Get Yammer
(Indexed 2009-04-21):
Every once in awhile technology helps, really helps. Yammer helps people doing projects.
Learn about TWI the Basis of Lean
(Indexed 2009-04-16):
Learn about the TWI approach from the only Senior Master Trainer in the US. Patrick Graupp will introduce you to this landmark program: Webinar. Tags: asides© 2009 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on these topics? [...]
Do You Have an OASiS for Planning on Your Project?
(Indexed 2009-04-15):
Adopt this mnemonic for your project environment. Thanks Matt for writing about it.© 2009 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on these topics? Browse other posts tagged asides.
Professional Status for PMs, Yes or No?
(Indexed 2009-04-15):
Take a stand for our profession. Commit to conduct projects in a way that everyone learns what they need to learn.
Project Management Professional
(Indexed 2009-04-14):
It's time to take our project management careers seriously. Commit to life-long learning.
Do Checklists Make Architecture and Design Projects Better?
(Indexed 2009-04-10):
Use checklists in design projects to engage people more fully.
Start using Project Management Hash Tags on Twitter
(Indexed 2009-04-07):
Raven is consolidating project management hash tags for use on Twitter. Thank you Raven!© 2009 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on these topics? Browse other posts tagged asides.
Does the Project Manager Know Better?
(Indexed 2009-04-06):
Project managers make choices for their clients every day. How do they know they are choosing what is better?
Ten New Project Management Bloggers at Lean Project Consulting
(Indexed 2009-03-31):
Learn from the best lean design and construction professionals. The Lean Project Consulting Project Coaches are blogging
All Ya Gotta Do Is Ask
(Indexed 2009-03-26):
Read the latest story of how green meets lean, or should I say kaizen? It's a Wall St Journal article that you don't want to miss.© 2009 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on these topics? Browse other [...]
Let’s Speak so We Can Be Understood
(Indexed 2009-03-26):
It irks me when people play games with their writing. It wastes the readers' time, turns them off to what one has to say, and creates idealogical warfares. Write clearly…for the readers. Sorry for this outburst. Let's speak (and write) so we can be understood. Our projects will benefit from [...]
Projects Are about What?
(Indexed 2009-03-25):
The Project Shrink combats conventional wisdom in his new book.
Not-So-Dumb Project Management Questions, Time to Vote
(Indexed 2009-02-20):
Readers of Reforming Project Management select the top 42 dumb project management questions
Engaging Leadership for Not-So-Dumb Project Questions
(Indexed 2009-02-20):
An engaged workforce musters the courage to ask the dumb questions. It takes steady leadership to make that happen.
Looking for 32 or more Dumb Project Management Questions
(Indexed 2009-02-13):
Help generate a list of great dumb project management questions
Top 10 Dumb Project Management Questions
(Indexed 2009-02-06):
Effective project controls requires asking the 'dumb' questions.
Turn Rocks into Gold on Your Projects
(Indexed 2009-01-26):
The tough worldwide economy requires attention to delivering high value to our clients. Read Clarke Ching's "Rocks into Gold" to see what you can do to take care of your clients while keeping your company viable.
The Future of Project Controls — Five Years Later
(Indexed 2008-11-30):
In the spring of 2003 I started some serious thinking about project (management) controls. Greg Howell had done some writing about it indicating that the usual practices he observed created a pressurized situation for the project participants. Since the PMI has updated the PMBoK® 3 times and they still separate planning, execution and [...]
Extreme Toyota’s Lesson for American Auto
(Indexed 2008-11-20):
We have more to learn from Toyota than there is time to do so
Out with Deterministic Project Planning
(Indexed 2008-11-11):
The PMI CEO wants to look beyond deterministic planning
Rules of Lean Project Management
(Indexed 2008-11-10):
Claude Emonde introduces fundamentals of lean project management
Does the Project Management Body of Knowledge Need Opportunity Management
(Indexed 2008-11-02):
Comments on PMI and PMBoK from Josh Namkviel
QnEK Is the Antidote to the 8th Waste
(Indexed 2008-10-15):
How do we engage our team mates? Use QnEK. Make project work safer, easier and more interesting.© 2008 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on these topics? Browse other posts tagged asides.
Let’s Meet at PMI Congress 2008 in Denver
(Indexed 2008-10-15):
I've been invited by PMI to join their newly organized New Media Council. I'll be attending the PMI Congress for the first time. I hope to see many of you there. Please contact me if you want to connect.© 2008 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to [...]
Become a Student of Project Management
(Indexed 2008-09-28):
Looking for something more to squeeze into your life? Head over to pmStudent. Josh Nankivel has invited authors and bloggers to share their views and advice on learning PM. I made my first post on Friday: HBR Shares How to Move Your Stalled Projects Forward.© 2008 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | [...]
Construction Software Selection Checklist
(Indexed 2008-08-23):
Houston Neal offers a high-level feature comparison checklist for beginning a software evaluation.© 2008 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on these topics? Browse other posts tagged asides.
Wisdom from Professor Rao
(Indexed 2008-08-22):
"Smart organizations make difficult things simple," from Bob Sutton's Work Matters.© 2008 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on these topics? Browse other posts tagged asides.
OSHA Fines Concrete Contractor $870,000
(Indexed 2008-07-20):
Pay attention: OSHA has fined Broadway Concrete for 15 willful violations involving fall protection and unprotected rebar on a 50-story NYC building. Let's not let it happen again.© 2008 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on these topics? [...]
Think Visual
(Indexed 2008-07-20):
Check out Dave Gray | info, a new website giving attention to ways of meaning, thinking and working by the founder of XPLANE and chief blogger at Communication Nation.© 2008 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on these topics? [...]
Who Knows Engineers?
(Indexed 2008-07-14):
Curious blog We Know Engineers on A/E firms. Worth checking out.© 2008 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on these topics? Browse other posts tagged asides.
Comparing Lean and Agile
(Indexed 2008-06-30):
Scott Reynolds writing at Tales from the SharpSide, "Lean forces you into a culture of quality. Agile is about interactions and people, and Lean is very much concerned with tools and processes." Read more about Lean vs. Agile…© 2008 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search [...]
Glen Alleman’s Models of PM Success
(Indexed 2008-06-25):
Glen makes two big claims:If you don't have a credible plan and schedule, with a handle on the cost all the "soft" skills won't get you back on trackIf you don't have a definitive description of what "done" looks like, so the "soft skills" class won't make those appearHave a look at his comprehensive stand [...]
Vroom and the “Capability Principle”: from sharing the project vision to successfully delivering projects
(Indexed 2008-03-12):
I still meet many project managers who just state that sharing a project vision (if ever there is one) is a waste of time and that the project team should just concentrate on what they are asked (told ?) to do. This always reminds me of my first project management courses, more than 30 years [...]
Lean Project Management
(Indexed 2008-02-19):
Lawrence Leach continues to masquerade CCPM as lean project delivery in his latest book Lean Project Management.
The Proximity Principle and Project Success: Revisiting Project e-Tip 016
(Indexed 2008-02-05):
Guest blogger Claude Emond
Claude Emond, Guest Blogger
(Indexed 2008-01-12):
I'm glad to have Claude posting at RPM. It was Claude who gave name to these wonder filled times — the project age. Please welcome him with your comments.© 2008 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on [...]
Not Managing Perceptions: The 10th Waste of Project Management
(Indexed 2008-01-12):
"Project Quality Management must address the management of the project and the product of the project"(p.180, PMBoK, 3rd edition)In an earlier blog entry, I presented the Nine Wastes of Mismanaged Projects, according to Lean Project Management gurus (Howell, Macomber, Koskela, Bodek). I said then that I saw a 10th waste adversely affecting project success: Not [...]
Ease into (Lean Project) Cold Water — Not!
(Indexed 2008-01-11):
Adopting lean approaches to project delivery require radical action. We know it can succeed. But, do we have the courage to jump into the cold water? There's no other way.
10 Ways for a Project Manager to Get Fired
(Indexed 2008-01-10):
For the busiest of project managers take note on what might get you fired.
Toyota Bests Ford in 2007
(Indexed 2008-01-07):
WSJ reported, "Ford and GM reported lower December sales, capping off annual declines of 12% and 6%, respectively. Toyota's 2007 sales (in US) rose 3.1% even amid tough competition and signs that the U.S. consumer is beginning to labor in a slowing economy."© 2008 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd [...]
Be Lean…Build Lean
(Indexed 2008-01-07):
It's time manufacturers acquired their facilities on a lean basis. They now can with lean design and construction.
Brush-Up on Lean Thinking
(Indexed 2008-01-07):
Re-familiarize yourself with the principles and practices of lean with Lean for Dummies. Do it to put yourself in new action!© 2008 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on these topics? Browse other posts tagged asides.
Tell New Stories to Make the Lean Change
(Indexed 2007-10-22):
Making the change to lean ways of doing projects requires breaking with the past. Re-tell the story of your enterprise to make the change.
Increase Reliability Saying No
(Indexed 2007-10-14):
Make every "Yes" count, Learn to Say, "No".© 2007 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on these topics? Browse other posts tagged asides.
White Mountains in Autumn
(Indexed 2007-10-05):
Eat your heart out! Beauteous!© 2007 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on these topics? Browse other posts tagged asides.
Rules for Renegades and Project Reformers
(Indexed 2007-10-04):
Get inspired. Give your career a boost. Live a more interesting life. Read Rules for Renegades.
Hal’s Baaack!
(Indexed 2007-10-03):
Sorry for not posting on lean project delivery, but September was a very busy month. In short, I anticipated it would take 3 months to sell my house. Instead, lucky me, it took 3 days. And the buyer wanted to get in close to opening day of school. We had no where [...]
Tips for (Project) Managers
(Indexed 2007-08-27):
Inside CRM offers The Manager's Cheat Sheet. Here are three of the best:Only promise what you can realistically deliver.Explain things simply.Identify the positives.Read the rest…© 2007 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on these topics? Browse other posts [...]
Lean Projects Require Lean Accounting
(Indexed 2007-08-15):
Wanna get lean? Then change your accounting.
Construction Project Silence Puts Safety at Risk
(Indexed 2007-08-14):
Not speaking and not listening contribute in significant ways to the failure of projects. Take the pledge...act more responsibly...start speaking and listening.
Are Projects as Backward as Construction?
(Indexed 2007-08-14):
How does our thinking lead to the failures in construction and projects?
Start Sharing Your QnEKs
(Indexed 2007-08-07):
It's time for Quick-n-Easy-Kaizen. Copy what others have done and share your own.
Mind Map Your Way to Project Success
(Indexed 2007-08-06):
Use a visual approach for conveying project plans. Try mind mapping.
4-Hour Work Week
(Indexed 2007-07-03):
Reviewed by Ron Pereira at Lean Six Sigma Academy. Ron highlighted a passage on Parkinson's Law: a task will fill the time available. I haven't had time to read The 4 Hour Work Week, but I listened to Michael Port's great podcast with author Tim Ferris.© 2007 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | [...]
“Fail Fast, Fail Cheap” Sounds Like Scrum
(Indexed 2007-07-02):
There is such an urge to get our projects right. Not approximately right. Right, as "Do it right the first time." Projects are not like that, especially design projects. Norman Bodek has been speaking about two principal ways we learn: copying the successful actions of others and making mistakes. If [...]
Lean Construction Summit
(Indexed 2007-06-29):
This is the super event…15 years running. It's here in the US…won't return for at least four more years. Don't miss meeting lean leaders in an informal setting. But the big reason is to get a first look at the most recent thinking on lean construction and lean project delivery. Register [...]
Another Carnival
(Indexed 2007-06-28):
What I like most about the Carnival of the Agilists is the self-organization for publishing. It's quite agile. Don't miss best of agile stories.© 2007 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on these topics? Browse other posts [...]
I Hired a Certified ScrumMaster
(Indexed 2007-06-27):
Why would a lean projects guy hire a Scrum software development ScrumMaster? Short answer: it seemed like a good idea at the time. Seriously, I'm doing some work for an architectural engineering firm. The company focuses on designing technically sophisticated manufacturing facilities. We are developing for them a responsibility-based planning approach. [...]
It’s Almost Like Being at the TWI Summit
(Indexed 2007-06-10):
The TWI Summit Presentations are available. Make sure you look at John Shook's description of TWI and Toyota. John had a key leadership role in the start-up of NUMMI.© 2007 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on [...]
What Is the Best Day of the Week?
(Indexed 2007-06-06):
Norman Bodek opened the TWI Summit challenging participants:Make mistakesCopy othersLook forward to Mondays!See Norman at 2007 Lean Construction Summit, July 18 - 20, 2007.© 2007 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on these topics? Browse other posts tagged asides.
Seth’s “The Dip” Makes the NY Times Best Sellers
(Indexed 2007-06-04):
This is quite funny. While The Dip made the hard-to-break NYT Best Sellers list, one of the editors shared how much muscle they're willing to flex. Don't I wish I had that much power.© 2007 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this [...]
How to Hire Project Talent
(Indexed 2007-06-01):
No need to hire project talent. Hire for attitude. You can teach the rest.
What Does it Take to Improve Safety by a Factor of Ten?
(Indexed 2007-05-30):
Ask Fluor. They did that by cutting their injury rate from 100 to 9 in one year. Let's not settle for less.© 2007 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on these topics? Browse other posts tagged asides.
Join Hal at the TWI Summit in Orlando
(Indexed 2007-05-29):
Rosie the Riveter put TWI on the map. Toyota Talent explains how standard work, TWI-style, set Toyota apart. There are still spots available to attend the TWI Summit on June 5-6. Use "lci" as the promo code to save $300.© 2007 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd [...]
Adopt Agile Development
(Indexed 2007-05-21):
I couldn't let this one pass. The folk at Trizle (that's the name) bring a wonderful writing style with their strong opinions. Here's the latest: How to Finish Big Projects© 2007 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more [...]
IMM-Glossary
(Indexed 2007-05-20):
1. Last Planner SystemThe Last Planner System® is a lean approach to planning and delivering projects. It is based on a hierarchy of planning: should, can, will, and did. LPS is not a computer system. It is a set of protocols corresponding with the four above items: pull planning, look-ahead planning, task [...]
Learn Mastery from Toyota
(Indexed 2007-05-19):
I had the chance to speak with Seth about Toyota. He's quite interested in the idea of "stopping the line to fix the problem." He says it's one reason why Toyota is the best in the world. He took a moment to quote me, Jidoka.© 2007 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | [...]
Seth Spreads the Idea of Mastery
(Indexed 2007-05-16):
Vince Lombardi was wrong when he said, "Winners never quit and quitters never win." Do I have your attention? That's how Seth Godin opened his presentation this morning in Philadelphia. It's the first stop on his book tour to promote The Dip. I've been asked many times, Why does a project [...]
Develop Your Staff the Toyota Way
(Indexed 2007-05-15):
Jeffrey Liker has a new book on Toyota, Toyota Talent, Developing Your People the Toyota Way. I've got my copy. I'll be reading it closely this week while traveling to SFO.© 2007 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant [...]
Naysayers All Around Us
(Indexed 2007-05-14):
But Gianna Clark takes them on one at a time. Whether it's Lean or Six Sigma, there are people who will get in the way. Gianna offers advice on what to do about them.© 2007 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this [...]
Say “No” without Guilt or Embarrassment
(Indexed 2007-05-14):
Project management made simple...promise not to perform. Saying No is an act of responsibility to the PM and the project team. Lean how to say No positively from William Ury.
Test Your Toyota Production System Knowledge
(Indexed 2007-05-13):
Toyota's website has a 10-question quiz on TPS basics. How smart are you?© 2007 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on these topics? Browse other posts tagged asides.
Lean Construction Journal
(Indexed 2007-05-12):
The latest issue has just been published. Have a look.© 2007 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on these topics? Browse other posts tagged asides.
When Herding Cats Use Promising
(Indexed 2007-03-29):
Glen Alleman beat me to writing about HBR's article on Promise-Based Managing. Glen makes a strong case for Promise-Based Planning that couples the ideas in the HBR article with the design of a project in terms of its deliverables.© 2007 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | [...]
Slides Available for Moving Beyond Obsolete Theory
(Indexed 2007-03-13):
Moving Beyond Obsolete Theory© 2007 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on these topics? Browse other posts tagged asides.
Don’t Settle for Symptons
(Indexed 2007-03-11):
Get to the root of the problem. Begin usingThe Five Whys Technique for Problem Solving© 2007 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on these topics? Browse other posts tagged asides.
Moving Beyond Obsolete Theory
(Indexed 2007-03-11):
It's my pleasure to speak again at a meeting of the Puget Sound PMI Chapter. Two years ago I gave a rather long and complicated presentation on obsolete theory, Fayol, Flores, and what can be learned from construction project management. This time I'll be attempting a much shorter and less complicated talk. [...]
Incomplete Is Incomplete
(Indexed 2007-03-05):
Johanna says it better, There is No Such Thing as Percent Complete.© 2007 Hal, Reforming Project Management. | Permalink | No commentsAdd to del.icio.us. | Search blogs linking this post with TechnoratiWant more on these topics? Browse other posts tagged asides.
Lean Project Delivery Can Learn from Toyota
(Indexed 2007-02-27):
If you haven't read From 0 to 60 to World Domination, then do so quickly. It's a New York Times Magazine article; they could pull it off the general readership at any moment. Better yet, make yourself a copy. Even the Toyota critics will have to admit that the NY Times did [...]
Planning, Scheduling, and Forecasting
(Indexed 2007-02-21):
Construction projects, like most projects, are conducting in a world that is unfolding. Understanding the differences of planning, scheduling, and forecasting can save your team much grief and aggravation.
Lean Is a Way of Life, even at Home
(Indexed 2007-02-21):
Lean Six Sigma works as well at home as it does on our projects. Ron shares how.
Misunderstanding Project Planning as Anticipation
(Indexed 2007-02-20):
Projects happen in an always-uncertain and unknowable future. Facing up to that is the key to improving project planning.
Explore a PM’s Brain
(Indexed 2007-02-19):
Raven shares her curiosity and interests at Raven's Brain as she explores the world of project management. Explore with her.
Bringing New People to Your Project Needn’t Be Hard
(Indexed 2007-02-18):
Team performance depends on teaming and performers who perform from the outset. Johanna Rothman can help you with both.
Distraction, another Form of the Two Great Wastes™, Leads to Project Failure
(Indexed 2007-02-15):
Silence and distraction, forms of the Two Great Wastes, establish a pattern that leads to project failure.
Silence — One of the Two Great Wastes™ — Is a Project and Career Killer
(Indexed 2007-02-14):
The Two Great Wastes are alive and killing our projects. Not listening and not speaking may be responsible for 85% of project failures according to one research study. Read what you can do about it before it kills your career.
Mistake-Proof Your Projects
(Indexed 2007-02-14):
Lean Six Sigma works for construction and project management.
10 Unbreakable Rules for Project Success
(Indexed 2007-02-13):
If rules are meant to be broken, then take a close look at these project rules. They just might be unbreakable.
Wondering about Six Sigma?
(Indexed 2007-02-13):
Where does Six Sigma fit on your project? Read Six Sigma for Dummies to get a clue.
What Does Sheepwalking Lead to?
(Indexed 2007-02-12):
How can well-intended people sometimes do things that cause harm on projects? Could sheepwalking lead to malicious compliance?
Safety and Quality In Health Care and Construction
(Indexed 2007-02-08):
Healthcare is learning from the Lean Six Sigma movement. Maybe it's time construction learned from healthcare.
Understanding Project Constraints
(Indexed 2007-02-05):
Understanding may be the big constraint on our projects.
Visiting Gantt Again with Apologies to Glen
(Indexed 2007-02-02):
Yesterday I made a posting "On the Side" calling attention to The PM Toolbox's follow-up to my work on Gantt charts. Well, it turns out The PM Toolbox was just republishing someone else's work. And they did it without any obvious credit to the author. (They included a link at the very [...]
Visiting Gantt Again
(Indexed 2007-02-01):
The PM Toolbox weighs in on Gantt charts. Havea look at Visiting Gantt Again.
Project Management for Professional Service Firms
(Indexed 2007-01-28):
Long term success of any firm depends on how well we do projects. Professional service firms -- get some good advice.
Use a Gantt Chart as a Conversation Starter
(Indexed 2007-01-28):
Gantt charts in combination with measures of planning reliability help you answer the two questions, "How is the project going?" and "When will we be done?"
Project Kaizen Starts with Last Planner
(Indexed 2007-01-22):
Begin taking delay out of your projects, Use Rough Numbers to Begin Improving Actions. Start with the Last Planner System®.
Want faster project meetings?
(Indexed 2007-01-20):
Then conduct stand-up meetings, How to Conduct Your Meetings. Research shows decisions are no less effective but the meeting goes much faster.
Shore Up Project Leadership
(Indexed 2007-01-20):
Project leadership can be the make-or-break factor for project success. The 6σ folk have some good advice for anyone with a leadership role. "(T)he high failure rate of many promising leaders is largely due to an over-reliance on a limited set of capabilities." Six Sigma Leadership.
Gantt, Earned Value, Critical Path, or Project Jazz?
(Indexed 2007-01-17):
What will jazz do for you for your projects?
Put Swing into Your Project for Success
(Indexed 2007-01-16):
Jazz as style might just put swing into your project that makes it a success. Learn how from Wynton Marsalis.
Not Even Toyota Is Flawless
(Indexed 2007-01-14):
I often gush over Toyota's lean design and manufacturing. BW writes Even Toyota Isn't Perfect calling attention to the increase in quality recalls in Japan and US. But read closely. Toyota saw this as a crisis and has just about turned it around.
Don’t Give Up on Gantt Charts Yet
(Indexed 2007-01-11):
The usefulness of the Gantt chart lies in its readability.
How Are You Using Gantt Charts to Brief Project Teams?
(Indexed 2007-01-09):
The Gantt chart is the universal way for showing project status. How is it used to brief project teams?
Becoming Lean Isn’t about Lean
(Indexed 2007-01-09):
It's not easy being lean if you can't manage the change project. "I dont see organizations having a structured way to manage the daily activities of their change process and waste elimination. I dont see organizations having a way to monitor and measure the influence or impact of their projects," Michael Kuta, in an [...]
What Has the Gantt Chart Done for You Lately?
(Indexed 2007-01-08):
How does the Gantt chart help you manage your project?
Kaizen and Safety Go Hand-in-Glove
(Indexed 2007-01-06):
kaizen is practiced across industries. Project kaizen can — maybe will — result in higher safety. Batesville Casket is enjoying imrpoved safety from their kaizen efforts, If kaizen Works for a Casket Manufacturer What Might it Do for You? Maybe your project will too.
Time for Workers as Self-Managers?
(Indexed 2007-01-04):
"Too many companies treat employees as an expense, not an asset." <homer> Doh! </homer> The authors of The New American Workplace suggest it's time that it can and should be different.
What Are Your New Year’s Lean Resolutions
(Indexed 2007-01-03):
Make two resolutions to bring the spirit of lean to your projects and your company.
A New Idea…Can I Face the Pain?
(Indexed 2007-01-02):
Are you ready for project success? Yes, you say. Are you ready to face the pain that goes with it?
Might Trust Reduce Employee Turnover?
(Indexed 2006-12-29):
Our projects and companies suffer when team members leave. But the bigger problem are the disaffected staff who never choose to leave.
What Auto Company Gets No Satisfaction?
(Indexed 2006-12-06):
Get inspired by Toyota's relentless dissatisfaction with the status quo. Adopt project kaizen.
What Project Planning Approach Improves Construction Safety?
(Indexed 2006-12-03):
Making work ready is the way to follow the rule "Only do work that is ready to be started and finished."
What Battle?
(Indexed 2006-11-22):
Six Sigma and TQM offer the manufacturing world a path to on-going improvement. What about the project world?
What’s Your Project Mentality?
(Indexed 2006-11-21):
Do you trust or distrust your ability to produce alignment of interests on your team. Your answer will shape your project mentality.
What’s Progressive about CPM?
(Indexed 2006-11-20):
CPM scheduling is back in the press. This time with a big-name backer.
The UK Leads the Adoption of Lean Construction
(Indexed 2006-11-13):
Lean Construction Congress 2006: Some of the biggest projects in the world have been going on in the UK...and they've used the lean construction approach.
Lessons from Turner’s Lean Construction Experience
(Indexed 2006-11-13):
Turner Construction extols the benefits of Lean Construction on their healthcare projects.
Herrero Contractors — Enthusiastic Lean Construction Leaders
(Indexed 2006-11-13):
Herrero Contractors is on a full-fledged company-wide lean journey. Mark Herrero, CEO, kicked off the presentation describing what lean is at Herrero. Their approach starts with the Last Planner System® (LPS) and includes Project kaizen and 5S. Mark spoke enthusiastically about lean, particularly his intention to run all projects as networks of [...]
Sundt’s Apollo Project
(Indexed 2006-11-08):
Learn from Sundt's first lean construction project
Audience Reactions to SSM’s “This Changes Everything”
(Indexed 2006-11-08):
Key PointsProblems are universalAlignment from IFoA and shared incentivesAsking the question, "WHat makes the work unproductive?"No GMPSelection of the right teamNo GMPReduction of RFIsThe showed how communication flows along100% sign-off on designPoor financial reporting of subsCore teamPublic tracking of PPCCore group authorized to make commitmentsOwner's decision and commitment to changeIFoA underlying trust factorUsing PPC to [...]
This Changes Everything
(Indexed 2006-11-08):
The lean construction story of a breakthrough project performed by a committed and enlightened team
Did the WSJ Get It Wrong about Lean and Taylor?
(Indexed 2006-11-07):
Construction project management is threatened by conventional wisdom...even the wisdom of the Wall Street Journal.
Kaizen Is about Making Small Change
(Indexed 2006-11-06):
Kaizen can be a habit on construction projects.
Why Project Managers Can’t Manage Projects
(Indexed 2006-11-03):
Is project management even possible? David Schmaltz thinks not.
Do We Share A Common Language?
(Indexed 2006-11-03):
Construction project management is about building bridges...and when we do it in lean ways society benefits.
Lean Construction Congress 2006
(Indexed 2006-11-03):
Construction project management is changing. The Lean Construction Institute is behind it.
Best Practices for Managing Successful Projects
(Indexed 2006-11-01):
Take your time reading "Rainbows & Ratholes", by Dan Kothari for useful distinctions on managing projects.
What Are You Doing on International Project Management Day?
(Indexed 2006-11-01):
Want to increase the awareness of the value of project management? Create project environments where people are acknowledged and appreciated. It will lead to project success, which in turn will lead to having a value for project management.
Hidden Project Factory
(Indexed 2006-10-31):
Lean construction approaches for eliminating the hidden factory.
Just (Not) Enough Project Management
(Indexed 2006-10-30):
Is there ever enough project management? Curtis Cook thinks "just enough" project management will result in fewer failures.
Projects @ Work Reports on Project Manager Bloggers
(Indexed 2006-10-27):
Reforming Project Management featured in Projects @ Work. Have a look.
What to Do when You’re Slipping
(Indexed 2006-10-24):
Avoid project slippages by creating an environment where people will speak up.
This Isn’t a (Project Management) Cookbook
(Indexed 2006-10-24):
Among the thousands of books on (construction) project management, one stands out "This Isn't a Cookbook, The Elements of Project Style" for encouraging a way of being and doing that just might help you succeed on your projects.
Deans of Design
(Indexed 2006-10-10):
IDEO is changing design...forever. Construction projects will benefit.
Pay Attention to the Business when Doing Projects
(Indexed 2006-10-01):
Project success depends in part on paying attention to the business situation.
Johanna Urges You to Plan for Unanticipated Events
(Indexed 2006-09-30):
It wasn't a happy time for Johanna Rothman this week. She hurt herself in the kitchen making tea. She needed to visit the ER for 4 stitches on her head. She seems to be all right. Typical of Johanna, the injury produced a project lesson, Unanticipated Events Screw Up Schedules. [...]
C.R. Meyer First GC to Earn VPP Star Status
(Indexed 2006-09-23):
Congratulations to the people at C.R. Meyer for a safety record that has 50% fewer incidents than others doing like work. That record along with their safety program has qualified them for OSHA's Voluntary Protection Program's (VPP) Star status. This program has previously not been available to general contractors. In 2004, OSHA [...]
Wal-Mart Inspires Entrepreneur
(Indexed 2006-09-18):
Great projects attract people. Learn from WalMart.
When it Comes to Project Management Theory Can You Go by the Book?
(Indexed 2006-09-04):
If you can't rely on project management theory, then what can you rely on?
Will Wal-Mart-Mart Change the World Selling CFLs? Let’s Wonder…
(Indexed 2006-08-29):
Encourage your team members to wonder. But, make sure you listen and get ready to act. Read about Wal-Mart-Mart's project to reduce carbon emissions.
Will Wal-Mart Change the World Selling CFLs? Let’s Wonder…
(Indexed 2006-08-29):
Encourage your team members to wonder. But, make sure you listen and get ready to act. Read about Wal-Mart-Mart's project to reduce carbon emissions.
Project Killer Phrases
(Indexed 2006-08-28):
Listen closely for project warnings.
Five Necessary Actions for Organizational Change
(Indexed 2006-08-28):
Organizational change require an intentional approach, especially when it involves shifting paradigms. Learn the approach Lean Project Consulting uses to help clients adopt lean project delivery practices.
Almost Done Is 100% Not Done
(Indexed 2006-08-25):
Getting projects done makes you money. Get your projects done.
The book is coming…
(Indexed 2006-08-17):
Hal speaks on "How to Do Projects with Words"
Learn about Projects at NUMMI
(Indexed 2006-08-10):
Visit NUMMI to learn about lean practices you can use on your projects.
Project Theory Gravitates towards the Language Action Perspective
(Indexed 2006-08-09):
IGLC-14: Project Theory
Reduce Batch Sizes to Improve Project Workflow
(Indexed 2006-08-04):
IGLC-14: Production System Design
Use nD Models to Surface Design and Schedule Errors
(Indexed 2006-08-01):
IGLC-14: IT Support for Lean Construction
How Do You Gauge Your Readiness for Lean Construction?
(Indexed 2006-08-01):
IGLC-14: Production Planning and Control
Cross Appropriating Agile Project Management
(Indexed 2006-07-27):
IGLC-14: Theory of Projects
Succeeding with Projects Requires a New Set of Skills
(Indexed 2006-07-27):
IGLC-14: Theory of Projects
Might Ant Algorithms Improve Project Performance?
(Indexed 2006-07-26):
IGLC-14: Theory of Projects
Brazilian Actions for Continuous Construction Flow
(Indexed 2006-07-25):
IGLC-14: Production Planning and Control
Sharing PPC Results in Trust-Worthiness
(Indexed 2006-07-25):
IGLC-14: Production Planning and Control
Phase Planning Today
(Indexed 2006-07-25):
IGLC-14: Production Planning and Control
Jim Womack Recommends a New Focus on Overburdening and Unevenness
(Indexed 2006-07-10):
Lean projects start by giving attention to muri and mura, and Jim Womack agrees!
Successful Projects Require Effective Communication
(Indexed 2006-07-07):
Nothing is more important to the success of a project than effective communication. That starts with the commitment conversation.
From Breakdown to Breakthrough
(Indexed 2006-07-06):
Success with lean construction (or any project) might depend on a well-placed breakdown.
Why (Most) Training Is Useless
(Indexed 2006-07-05):
Don't waste your time with run-of-the-mill training. David Maister wants you to try a different approach.
The Morning Meeting
(Indexed 2006-06-19):
Take some advice from Harvard Management Communication Letter. Adopt The Morning Meeting in your PMO or large project.
Step-by-Step Project Management
(Indexed 2006-06-01):
Take care of the project team so they will take care of the promise of the project.
Rewritten Rules of Management — A Manifesto
(Indexed 2006-05-26):
It's time we held ourselves and our leaders to higher standards. Tom Ehrenfeld offers a manifesto inspired by the Bill Swanson misdeed.
Explaining Misunderstanding
(Indexed 2006-03-27):
Poor communication may be at the source of most project failures. Go directly to work on misunderstanding by adopting habits of reflection and inquiry.
Getting Unstuck
(Indexed 2006-03-10):
Ever get stuck on your project. I do and I am. Maybe a switch of hats will help.
America’s Second Most-Admired Company
(Indexed 2006-03-09):
For the first time ever a foreign firm made it to Fortune's top ten most admired companies. That company's secret weapon is its ability to deliver big, bold projects.
Art of Project Management Redux
(Indexed 2006-03-08):
Project management is both science and art. Scott Berkun's book The Art of Project Management fills a gap. If you are serious about advancing in a career in project management then you must read this book.
New Lens Available on Language-Action Perspective
(Indexed 2006-03-06):
Use the lenses as a quick way to navigate the Reforming Project Management site. A new lens was added today for the Language-Action Perspective on Projects. Have a look.
Project Meeting Protocols: Starting A Project Well Begins with a Kickoff Meeting
(Indexed 2006-02-13):
Use this project kickoff meeting agenda to start your projects well.
People, Process, and Tools
(Indexed 2006-02-12):
Projects succeed or fail often in spite of the actions we take. We can improve our chances for success by selecting appropriate people, projects, and tools.
A Tale of Two Business Systems
(Indexed 2006-02-08):
Every once-in-awhile a someone offers a really important opinion. Today, Jim Womack offered just that opinion. It's time to shift business models. The sooner the better!
Project Meeting Protocols: Improving the Planning System Performance
(Indexed 2006-02-07):
Adopt a project meeting protocol to improve the overall performance of the planning system.
Feedblitz Replaces Bloglet for Email Delivery
(Indexed 2006-02-05):
Feedblitz replaces Bloglet for email deliveries of Reforming Project Management.
Rebuilding U.S. Manufacturing (and Project Capability)
(Indexed 2006-02-01):
Make it your 2006 learning objective to understand how Toyota has come to be the best manufacturer in the world. Your projects depend on that knowledge. Get started with Industry Week's series. Read on...
Source of Greatest Project Waste
(Indexed 2006-01-31):
Project waste is everywhere. Taking a lean approach attacks that waste. But it doesn't end there. People need to play their assigned roles. If not, then they generate more waste.
Lean Project Consulting’s New Home in Colorado
(Indexed 2006-01-23):
Our move to Colorado has been a re-learning opportunity in small design and construction projects. I'm pleased to share our learning with you...
We’ve Just Begun Exploring Project Kaizen
(Indexed 2005-12-19):
Announcing projectkaizen.com in support of your project kaizen initiatives. Have a look...
Accomplishment Fuels More Accomplishment
(Indexed 2005-12-13):
Create an improving habit by adopting project kaizen. It will lead to more improving for you and your team...
Revisit and Rethink Your Project with the Project Kaizen Blitz
(Indexed 2005-12-09):
The project kaizen blitz is your once-in-a-project opportunity for a fresh start. Learn what to do and how to make the blitz a success...
Quick ‘n Easy Kaizen: Winning with Project Kaizen
(Indexed 2005-12-08):
Get started with the winning approach to improving project performance. Adopt Quick 'n Easy Kaizen...
Grim Reader: Project Kaizen Co-Blogger for Wednesday
(Indexed 2005-12-08):
Eric H, the Grim Reader, offers his take on project kaizen and earns his spot as the gang-of-seven's "plus one" co-blogger of the day. Read on...
Project Kaizen Day Two
(Indexed 2005-12-07):
On this second day of the project kaizen co-blogging series, Kathleen Fasanella writes clearly about workgroup kaizen. Don't miss it!
Project Kaizen in Workstreams Increases Throughput
(Indexed 2005-12-07):
Workstreams are the environment for improving the throughput of the project.