Your Project, Your Way

Why one size doesn’t fit all

Methodologies describe how a “happy project” should be, and provide universal guidelines to follow. In this sense, yes: all happy projects are alike. However, it’s equally true that unsuccessful projects can fail (or, less dramatically, underperform) for a multitude of reasons, often specific to the unique circumstances of the project and the organization itself.

All happy families are alike;

each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.

Can we similarly say that all successful projects are alike?

Methodologies describe how a “happy project” should be, and provide universal guidelines to follow. In this sense, yes: all happy projects are alike. However, it’s equally true that unsuccessful projects can fail (or, less dramatically, underperform) for a multitude of reasons, often specific to the unique circumstances of the project and the organization itself.

Image by Portland Center Stage from flickr.com, CC BY-NC 2.0

To ensure project success within an organization, it’s essential to focus on the shared elements that apply to both successful and unsuccessful projects. Identifying the common traits among successful projects highlights organizational strengths, while recognizing commonalities among underperforming projects sheds light on weaknesses, systemic organizational issues, or areas requiring improvement.

Common vs Unique: tailoring methodologies to your organization

Methodologies such as PMI, Prince2, or Hermes offer a valuable framework of reference. For instance, PMI presents its methodology within a “Body of Knowledge,” rather than a handbook with rigid instructions. An organization will have to tailor it to suit its specific needs and characteristics and create its own standard for “happy projects”.

This principle is even more pertinent when considering “umbrella” methods like Agile. Agile is synonymous with a set of principles and values, accommodating virtually any effective method or practice (Scrum, Kanban, XP,…) that aligns with these guiding principles.

In essence, the common elements that contribute to project success might be universal, but are not universally…