Common Lean Manufacturing Software Project Constraints

Leveraging Project “Constraints” and Maximizing Results As a project manager for demand-driven, lean manufacturing software, I have more than a nodding acquaintance with the theory of constraints (TOC). What I find quite remarkable is the ability to apply the theory of constraints to other mediums beyond the manufacturing of goods – even something like project work. When a client

Life Hack 101: Doing Implementation Documentation Right

The Who, When, What and Where for a Solid Project Doc Strategy Imagine if your most important photos—your child’s first birthday party, the day you brought home your new dog, that awesome vacation in Europe—were all lost forever. Your computer fell into the bathtub or the hard drive was wiped by an electrical storm, and you didn’t back up your drive. Don’t

Top 3 Communications Best Practices for Software Implementations

In a recent business article out of the UK, the author cites trends such as collaboration and connectivity as hallmarks of the “factory of the future.” I would take that one step further, and add “communication” to that list—especially during implementation. Smart implementation leaders make sure they are listening to the insights of everyone who will be impacted by their new systems and following solid communication practices throughout the life

Rockin’ Relationships: Documents Drive the Details

In the second part of our three part series on successful implementation strategies, we discuss one of the most important project setup strategies – the RACI. Part Two- The RACI As I’ve mentioned before, implementation projects end up being mostly about the people involved. Project success hinges upon how effective the project team is in harnessing their own particular talents and in placing the right eyes over the right set

Rockin’ Relationships: People ARE the Project

Logistics planning to enable project relationships – practical directives from an industry veteran. Part One: Love Your Logistics At the end of the day, implementation projects end up being about people—their skills, styles, and investment in the project and the project’s success. As you may well imagine, there are quite a few ways to set up effective relationships. For me, these fall into three categories: Project documentation; communication: and logistics.