Ever witnessed a project launch with a bang, only to fizzle out with low adoption and frustrated stakeholders? It’s a common scenario – brilliant plans often fall short when the human element is neglected.
That’s where the magic of a collaborative project manager (PM) and change manager (CM) dream team comes in.
Imagine a project manager as the rocket engineer, meticulously calculating trajectories, mapping the course, and ensuring structural integrity. Now, picture the change manager as the mission specialist, preparing the crew, managing communications, and ensuring a smooth landing. Together, they fuel the project’s journey from launch to landing. By aligning efforts and recognising the importance of their combined expertise, they achieve a successful mission.
Here’s how this power duo elevates project success.
From impeccable plans to mindful execution.
The PM tackles the “what”, “how” and “when” – clear objectives, timelines, and resource allocation. The CM tackles the “who” and “why” – understanding stakeholder needs, navigating push back, and fostering adoption. This combined approach ensures the project not only lifts off smoothly but also lands with a receptive audience.
But this successful collaboration hinges on a crucial element: trust.
A strong PM trusts the CM’s expertise in navigating the human side of change. This translates to vocally advocating for the CM’s skills and engagement with the business throughout the project. The PM acts as a champion, ensuring the CM has a seat at the table and their voice is heard.
Conversely, the CM respects the PM’s knowledge, experience and ability to bring the project to a successful conclusion. They collaborate on solutions and avoid public disagreements that could undermine the project’s success.
A good CM anticipates and addresses potential crew concerns. By working hand-in-hand with the PM, they can proactively communicate mission updates, manage expectations, and ensure everyone feels valued throughout the journey. This leads to smoother transitions, higher morale, and ultimately, a more positive project experience for all involved.
The PM focuses on delivering the mission, but the CM focuses on ensuring the new ways of working becomes sustainable. They work together to develop long-term strategies for embedding new processes and behaviours. This ensures the mission’s benefits continue to be reaped long after the initial launch.
Even the dream team can hit a snag. Here are 3 common pitfalls to watch out for, and how to get things back on track.
When the PM and CM operate in isolation, communication suffers. The project can become PM-driven, neglecting the human impact, or too CM-focused, potentially causing delays.
Solution – clear communication & shared goals.
Schedule regular joint meetings, establish clear communication channels, and ensure both PMs and CMs are aligned on project goals and stakeholder needs.
Sometimes, change management is seen as an afterthought. This can lead to significant disruption and a rocky implementation phase.
Solution – early integration & advocacy.
Involve the CM from the project’s outset. The CM can advocate for the change within the project team and ensure it’s factored into the overall plan.
Disagreements over timelines or resource allocation can create tension.
Solution – collaborative problem-solving.
Open communication and a focus on the project’s overall success are key. Encourage both PMs and CMs to work together as a problem solving alliance to find solutions that address everyone’s concerns.
We have a team of highly skilled and experienced project and change managers who work collaboratively to ensure your projects not only meet their goals but also achieve lasting success.
