The HBR Guides Collection (8 Books) (HBR Guide Series)

The Four Phases of Project Management

23

schedule. And when you examine deliverables,

use the most appropriate tools—such as detailed

inspections, checklists, or statistical sampling—to

accept or reject them. Return or rework rejected

deliverables, depending on costs.

4. People problems. These are often the most dif-

fi cult challenges a project manager must con-

front. They can generally be avoided or handled

early on if you communicate frequently with each

team member. Weekly staff meetings may not be

enough; daily interaction—with individual team

members or with the team as a whole—may be

necessary.

Pay attention to small signs of emerging problems,

such as a team member’s increased tension and irrita-

bility, loss of enthusiasm, or inability ...