How to Wrap Up a Project
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Sometimes the remaining tasks on a job are the boring ones: wrapping up the paperwork, assembling the files, writing the final reports. Many project managers hate to do them; they procrastinate. One reason this happens is that these wrap-up tasks are “off-schedule.” But don’t let them be. If they are part of making the project a complete success, make them tasks, put them in the schedule, and assign them to yourself. Sometimes the end of a project is difficult because initial expectations were unrealistic. Operating from an impossible plan and budget, some project managers paper over the problem rather than face the facts. When the inevitable crisis arrives, they put the project aside and stall disaster. If you’re going to be an outstanding project manager, make sure that you’re fully committed to the outcome. Do whatever it takes to keep your energy and focus high. Your mission is success. Success means completing the project. Evaluate Build a mechanism for evaluation into your project. Keep a project journal and record surprises, problems, and options. Hold a “lessons learned” meeting with the project team and brainstorm ideas for the future.
