How do you succeed in gaining support for your projects?
What could be the reason for the lack of support?
Studies show, among other things, that a major challenge in project implementation is ensuring coordination and support at all levels of the organization. Projects lose both value, yield and impact if there is no support from the entire organization. This is a challenge that many companies face and are trying to solve.
What could be the reason:
There can be many reasons why there is not the necessary support. Most companies are the same and have a number of unique characteristics, work areas, etc. However, there are some common features that recur across industries, work tasks, etc. We see the following as elements that play a major role.
Political game:
Although companies should generally have a common goal and agenda, we often see internal agendas or political games arise internally. This is expressed in the projects through diverse attitudes and opinions, which can extend, postpone, phase out, etc. the projects. This can contribute to reducing the quality and yield, because the motivation and drive to complete the project may be lacking.
Consensus:
An important part of the project is to have a plan prepared that is based on a joint decision. This means that the project has not been cleared and consensus has not been created from the start. The political game has not been cleared and the phases of the project have not been prepared in accordance with the organization.
Definition:
In addition to the phases of the project being laid down, one of the reasons for lack of support is that the project is not clearly defined. This can lead to doubt, wonder and ultimately the support for implementing it disappears. Furthermore, it can contribute to prolonging the project, as several of the phases must be revisited and stakeholders must gather to discuss it again. Whereas a clearly defined plan ensures efficiency, overview and control.
What elements can you bring into play
We have listed some specific areas that can increase support for your projects. Many of them are related or provide greater synergy if combined. But individually they will also have their justification and strengthen the support for the project.
Communication:
It is essential that open and clear communication is prioritized throughout the project. Be responsive to feedback and hold meetings regularly to ensure consensus and that everyone is on the same page.
One way to create this is by creating a communication plan. This includes, among other things, a clear definition of how and when information will be shared with stakeholders.
Create alliances:
Create beacons and key people by identifying key stakeholders and allies who can support the project. Cultivating these relationships through clear communication and a human and personal approach ensures that trust is built.
Use them actively and involve them in the project process to maintain their commitment and support.
Create value and show your worth:
It is important to clarify the value and benefits of the project for the company and stakeholders, as this ensures greater support. Something that must be clearly defined from the start, so that you can be proactively fit to demonstrate the project's progress and results.
Even though the project is clearly defined from the start and contains a plan, it is important to be aware that it is often an emerging process that changes. Therefore, the project must be continuously adapted to the needs and priorities of the company, for which support is maintained.
Involve management:
A project without the support and commitment of top management is often doomed to failure. It must make sense and create value for management and the company from the start.
Ensure that management has a clear understanding of the project's purpose, goals, and importance to the company. Involve management in the decision-making process and seek their input and approval on important decisions so that they are invested and part of the project.
Find common goals:
Meaning, value and common goals are central elements that can support the project.
Just as management must be invested, it is important to create a general sense of community and ownership of the project among all stakeholders.
Make sure to clearly identify and communicate the meaning, value and shared goals and work to align the stakeholders' individual goals so that they are in line with the overall project goals.
Be patient and persistent:
It can take time to build support from both management and the company in general, which is why it is important to remain patient.
Be persistent and continue to engage and convince stakeholders of their value, shared goals and importance. Be mindful of listening and accepting advice, feedback and any changes so that good communication is maintained.
Support for projects is crucial to their success, and it requires open communication, alliance building, and clear value demonstration. Leadership involvement and a focus on shared goals are essential, while persistence and patience are key to navigating through challenges and ensuring project success.
That's what our customers say
We will get you to your destination.
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?
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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?