Collaboration with Success: The Steering Committee Can Have a Crucial Role in Project Management
Lars Ubbesen, Director at Nordjysk Projektledelse and former Senior Project Manager for a number of large projects in industry, says: “As a senior project manager, one of my most valuable experiences over the years has been the understanding of how important it is to build and maintain a strong collaboration with the steering committee. The steering committee plays a crucial role in the success of any project manager.”
In this article, it will be explained what a steering group is, why cooperation with them is essential, and how to best achieve this cooperation as a project manager.
What is a Steering Group?
A steering committee is a group of stakeholders responsible for leading and managing a project. This group usually consists of management members, key decision makers, and experts in the field in which the project is being carried out. The steering committee is tasked with making important decisions, providing direction, and ensuring that the project stays on track.
The importance of good cooperation with the steering group
Good cooperation with the steering group is crucial for several reasons:
Decision making: The steering group is responsible for making important decisions about the project's direction, budget and resources. If there is no effective collaboration, the decision-making process can be delayed or disrupted, which can have serious consequences for the project.
Understanding: The steering group often has a deep understanding of the organization's goals and vision. Through collaboration, the project manager can benefit from this knowledge and ensure that the project is in line with the organization's overall strategy.
Resource Allocation: The steering committee is responsible for ensuring that the project has the necessary resources, including budget, staff, and technology. Good collaboration can help the project manager ensure that resources are available and sufficient.
Risk management: The steering committee can help the project manager identify and manage risks, as they often have a broader perspective on the organization's operations and external factors that may affect the project.
How to Achieve Good Cooperation with the Steering Committee
As a project manager, it is crucial to build and maintain a positive collaboration with the steering group. Here are some key steps to achieve this:
Clear Communication: Communication is key to any collaboration. Ensure clear and regular communication channels with the steering committee. Report regularly on the project's status, progress, and any issues.
Understand Your Priorities: Take the time to understand the steering group's goals and priorities. This will help you align the project with their expectations and prevent conflicts later.
Involve Them in the Decision-Making Process: Involve the steering committee in important decisions. This shows that you value their input and expert advice.
Reports Transparent: Be honest about the project's status, even when it encounters challenges. Transparent reporting allows for timely intervention and resolution of issues.
Listen and Learn: Be willing to listen to the steering group's feedback and learn from their experiences. This shows that you respect their knowledge and expertise.
Build Trust: Trust is the basis for good cooperation. Keep your promises, deliver results, and show dedication to the success of the project.
Good collaboration with the steering committee is a key factor in a project manager's success. It requires clear communication, understanding their needs and priorities, and a willingness to work together as a team. When the project manager and the steering committee work in harmony, the chances of project success are significantly higher, and the organization benefits from successful project deliveries that are in line with its goals and vision.
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Our goal when we carry out projects is to create flow, ensure delivery and ensure that the projects reach their destination at our customers' premises.
Should we also help you reach the goal of a project?