Both an engineering manager’s personal productivity and that of their team will ensure a greater output in a smaller time and ensure the delivery of all key objectives. Should complications arise within a project, a productive team will also be more competent in their approach to overcoming them.
1) Control what can be controlled
Before the onset of a project, set in place plans for implementing and monitoring every crucial process. Ensure that all operations are thoroughly planned, that teams are set up with specialities in mind, and that procedures are in place for monitoring key deliverables.
2) Earn your leading role
As a project manager, it is essential that you inspire confidence in those around you, and earn the leading role you have been designated. Encourage and motivate your co-workers and take overall responsibility for the running of the project. Remaining calm under pressure is also crucial to leading productively.
3) Manage expectations
When briefing teams and team members, ensure that every individual is aware of the expectations for – and limitations of - the project and their role within it. Individuals work more productively with clear, realistic expectations in mind. Should objectives change, communicating the alteration in what’s expected is essential.
4) Ensure training needs are met
In all projects, appropriate training allows those involved to work productively and with little supervision. Once team members are trained, assigning roles appropriately is an equally important task. Additionally, don’t forget about your own training needs as a project manager. Ultimately, you are responsible for overall project success.
5) Set regular, measurable deadlines
To keep on track, organise projects into small, regular deadlines. Having challenges flagged up early will ultimately improve productivity, and will allow the most possible time to problem solving efforts, while ensuring that further work isn’t completed upon a flawed foundation.
6) Carefully delegate resources
As a project manager, managing resources is at the heart of your role. Every team must be equipped with what’s necessary for them to meet their objectives, and the financial resources of the project must be delegated where most needed. When complications arise, the ability to re-allocate resources can be essential to project success.
7) Don’t micro-manage
Micro-managing every element of a project will waste your time and that of those you’re managing. While it’s important as a manager to be mindful of deadlines and key objectives, it is equally crucial to show a degree of trust in those that you have assigned to roles.
8) Expect the unexpected
Contingency planning and risk management are essential elements of every engineering project. While most risks can be minimised through effective planning, it is important to be mindful of hazards and set procedures in place should complications occur.
9) Take action where necessary
Often, a manager will have to intervene when processes are failing within a project. Whether re-assigning roles, offering practical advice or re-allocating resources to aid a team, the ability to respond to difficulties is crucial to maintaining a productive team.
10) Be supportive
If individuals are challenged within their role, there is a high likelihood that they will feel some level of stress. Setting in place procedures to support team members within these situations, and providing interpersonal support at these times can prove positive in terms of productivity.
If you’re looking to build upon not only your productivity, but other crucial elements of project management competency as well, explore our Leading Projects suite. Ranging from one to five days in length, these courses are suited for engineers at all levels of seniority, and equip participants with the expertise necessary to manage projects effectively.
Call our experienced training advisors and discuss your training needs on Tel: +44 (0)207 304 6907 or contact us via email at training@imeche.org.