Do you need to setup a project super fast and you’re not sure how best to do it?

This is a quick article explaining how.

1. Start with the end in mind
   In a single page, write out what will be delivered at the end. This might be a website, a document, a piece of code, a new branch for your office or your store.
   Whatever it is, in concise plain English write a clear description of what your going to deliver. So, if it’s a website, write who the website is for, what it will do, how it will look and feel, how users will engage with it etc. This will be your “go to” document if you’re explaining what the project is about (for new staff, for funding, etc.). I like to make this document look as good as possible – typically I use powerpoint.
   Note: I know it’s very hard to summarize complex projects onto a single page but it’s critical that you do this. You’ll be surprised how often you use this page.
   
2. Don’t do a detailed plan, focus on milestones
   When you read the manuals, the wisdom from people who’ve never led projects is to spend a long time on a detailed plan. Having worked in the recovery of countless highly challenged projects, I’ve seen lots of detailed plans. They don’t work.
   When setting up a project FAST, I suggest focusing on critical milestones. This means identify the 10-12 things that absolutely need to be completed to get the project delivered. So, for setting up a website this might be,
   A. Finalize logo, domain name and branding
   B. Select platform for the website
   C. Complete photoshoot and select key photos of the products
   Make sure each one of these critical milestones have a delivery date and owner. Of course each one of these milestones will have a lot of individual activities needed to get the milestone completed but it’s easy to get stuck in the detail on this. If you keep it nice and simple like this is helps to stay manageable.
   
3. Work out the resources you need
   When setting up a project FAST, it’s really important to work out what you’ll need to get the project completed. Typically you need people and money. Even if it’s a bootstrap project you’re working on by yourself though, you’ll need some stuff to get it delivered.
   Doing this at the start (at least at a high level) will mean you’re better prepared than most.
   
4. Setup a process for monitoring progress
   If you’re not tracking progress you’re unlikely to complete the work on time. Setup some sort of system to ensure you stay focused on delivering.
   
   Good luck!