How do you know if your project achieved its expected results? It’s not just making the target date or coming in under budget. How do you ensure that what you planned to do is what you accomplished?

If you have been around the project world for a while, you have probably seen the tire swing picture. The original drawing comes from John Oakland’s Total Quality Management and Operational Excellence book published in 1989. You may laugh that you have experienced this type of project, but how do you know if you did?

No matter what methodology you are using, you have to know what the customer is asking. You need to clearly define and communicate their desires at the beginning and throughout each phase or sprint/release of the project to the entire team. Ensure that the customer is allowed to share with the team. Break down departmental barriers where status and updates are illusive. When reporting project status, show key milestones that are completed and ask the entire team if the milestones are on track with the requirements. Demo the ready product as early and often as possible to gain feedback from customers and the team.

Cost, budget, and Schedule tracking is essential for PMs. Maintaining a small %variance in all three categories from beginning to end can indicate the achievement of expected results. BUT if you really want to ensure you achieved your desired results, check scope against progress early and often.