Project Failure Files: Consistency in Messaging and Approach
In Episode 5 of the Project Failure Files weekly webcast, we tackled the topic “Consistency is Key: Avoiding Messaging and Approach Discrepancies,” and emphasized the critical role of consistency in both communication strategy and overall methodology. My co-host Sharon Weaver (@sharoneweaver) and I stressed that while the choice of project management framework or methodology is flexible, adherence to some kind of structured approach is non-negotiable. Consistency builds trust by providing clear structures that everyone can understand and engage with, facilitating effective feedback mechanisms.
As we walked through our weekly program structure, sharing personal examples and stories, we outlined many of the common pitfalls of inconsistency, such as irregular communication schedules, varied message formats, and the inefficiency caused by resending outdated information. These practices often lead to team confusion, reduced productivity, misalignment of objectives, and loss of stakeholder trust. We shared some examples of failed projects where inconsistent messaging led to significant setbacks, highlighting what went wrong and what could have been done differently.
To counter these issues, we shared some of our best practices for maintaining consistency, including standardized communication protocols, regular and predictable updates, and clear highlighting of changes and required actions. We also discussed tools and technologies that aid consistency, such as project management software and templates – and the importance of having a formal “post-mortem” at the conclusion of every project. Emphasizing the importance of training and ongoing reinforcement, we concluded by outlining the benefits of consistent messaging, such as improved team cohesion, enhanced project efficiency, and increased stakeholder satisfaction. Hopefully, the guidance we shared provided our listeners with some practical advice for implementing these best practices in various projects. As always, your feedback is welcome!
Be sure to tune in next Monday, July 22nd at 9am Pacific for Episode 6 of this weekly series as Sharon and I discuss “Ignoring Leadership and Team Dynamics: The Human Factor in Project Success.“ Join us on LinkedIn.
