97 Things Every Project Manager Should Know

Chapter 67. Clear Terms, Long Friendship!

PMP. Matteo Becchi

THE TITLE OF THIS TIP IS FROM AN OLD ITALIAN SAYING: Patti chiari, amicizia lunga, which means "Clear terms equal long friendship."

I think this mantra applies to many aspects of project management discipline. On a broader, methodological level, this saying summarizes in my mind the idea behind scope statements, setting goals and deliverables, and creating project definition documents. Really, all project artifacts are geared toward stating upfront the terms and goals the project team is setting out to accomplish.

Now take that concept to the 50,000 foot- (or 15,000-meter) view. Look at the initiation and planning phases of the project life cycle across the nine knowledge areas of the PMBOK® Guide, from developing the project charter, scope, work breakdown structure (WBS), schedule, cost estimates, to quality/HR/communication and procurement plans.

Each of these activities underlines the heavy focus we dedicate to planning upfront and communicating the plan to all stakeholders to make sure everyone is on the same page. These are basically measures to ensure smooth sailing on the journey that is the project life cycle.

Second, on the tactical level, when running meetings make sure you build, or simply state and set, clear project meeting guidelines and expectations with your team, such as:

• There will be a specific agenda and a ...