10 Questions that will make your next project review a huge success.
The Project Leaders is a critical role who can make hard work seem easy and can make impossible tasks seem like no big deal. How do successful project leaders and project sponsors make this hard work seem easy. Follow this recipe for making your next project review a smashing success.
1.What is the problem we are looking to solve, or the opportunity we are trying to capture?
Start every project review by revisiting the why. This question reminds everyone of the purpose behind the project, ensuring alignment and helping to refocus if the team has strayed from the original intent.
2. What is the target condition or goal of this project?
Frame your goals clearly using this structure: “From X to Y by when.” For example, “Increase customer retention from 65% to 75% by the end of Q3.” This clarity helps track progress and keeps the team goal-oriented.
3. What progress has been made since our last review?
Evaluate how far you’ve come. Have milestones been achieved? Celebrate wins, identify areas of stagnation, and understand what’s working well or not.
4. What do we plan to accomplish before our next review?
This forward-looking question sets the stage for the next phase of work. Clarify upcoming assignments, who owns them, and the expected outcomes to maintain accountability.
5. What is the health of this project?
Use a color-coded system to evaluate project health:
Green: On schedule, on budget.
Yellow: Some issues, but recovery is possible.
Red: Significant problems affecting delivery scope, benefits, or timeline.
Discuss the reasoning behind the status and, if necessary, action plans for improvement.
6. Are we on schedule? Are there any delays?
Timelines are crucial. Assess whether you’re meeting deadlines and identify reasons for delays. This discussion can surface blockers or inefficiencies that need immediate attention.
7. What risks are being monitored? Are there any new or escalated risks?
Projects rarely go exactly as planned. Review known risks and determine whether new risks have emerged or existing ones have intensified. Discuss mitigation strategies to stay ahead of potential issues.
8. Do we need to adjust? Are there any changes? Is the prior project plan still relevant?
Projects evolve. This question ensures that your plan adapts to changing circumstances. If adjustments are necessary, discuss how they affect timelines, budgets, or deliverables.
9. Is the team properly engaged? Are stakeholders properly engaged?
Review the team’s involvement and capacity. Are they motivated and clear on their roles? Additionally, assess whether stakeholders are providing the necessary input and support. Engagement gaps can derail progress if not addressed.
10. How will we manage changes to project definition or deliverables?
Changes are inevitable, but how you manage them can determine a project’s success. Define a clear process for handling changes, ensuring transparency and alignment among all stakeholders.
