Project Failure Files: The Cost of Ignoring the Process

In Episode 27 of the Project Failure Files weekly webcast, our focus was “Ignoring the Process: The Cruciality of Process Adherence,” in which Sharon and I really tried to emphasize the importance of sticking to established processes in project management and the major issues that can arise when they aren’t followed. We’ve all seen how tempting it can be to cut corners or bypass certain steps, but process adherence is key to ensuring consistency, efficiency, and quality. By sticking to established workflows, we help teams align with best practices, manage risks more effectively, and ultimately deliver more predictable outcomes.

We also shared some of the consequences we’ve witnessed firsthand when processes are ignored—everything from a loss of accountability and control to increased risks of project failure. It’s not just about missed deadlines or budget overruns; when processes are bypassed, it often impacts team morale and trust, and the overall quality of the work takes a hit. During the episode, we discussed real-world examples that illustrate just how damaging this can be, both for the team and the project.

What we really wanted to highlight was the practical side of reinforcing process adherence. Whether it’s through clear documentation, leadership modeling the behavior, or regular training and process updates, maintaining discipline within the team is crucial. We also talked about the importance of celebrating and recognizing teams that consistently follow processes, as it helps foster a culture of consistency. In the end, while shortcuts might seem appealing in the moment, following the process leads to more successful, efficient, and higher-quality project outcomes.

Enjoy the episode!

Be sure to tune in next Monday, December 23rd at 9am Pacific for Episode 28 of this weekly series as Sharon and I discuss “Establishing a Solid Foundation: Creating a Baseline.“  Hope you can join us on LinkedIn or YouTube.