“How many more could be done?” I wondered. The figures were dancing around in my head, and I didn’t need to start drawing a chart to see a massive improvement in productivity […]
Project Estimations and Parkinson’s Law
Damaged…but Redeemable?
“We can rebuild him; we have the technology.” “Damaged?” I gasped, “He said I was damaged?” I’ve been called all sorts of things over the years, some of them justified – some […]
Get Out Before You Ruin Your Reputation!
“I’ve given my notice,” my colleague announced. “Great,” I replied. I’d seen this coming. “Where you going?” “Nowhere.” No, I hadn’t seen this coming. “You’re leaving, but not for another job?” “Correct.” […]
Governance – There’s More Than One Way to Look at It
“Governance is not just arranging meetings,” stated the CEO. I sat silently for a moment on the conference call, stung by the insult. What should I say? ‘Duh, I know!!’ Only if […]
Getting in Shape – You and the PMO
It’s sad to think of the shape we can allow ourselves to get into. Slow moving, over laden and lacking confidence. We see aspirational goals of how we can get leaner, faster, […]
My Speech on the Importance of Regulation in Financial Services
An impromptu speech I gave this week on the importance of the market and regulation. I think it deserves a larger audience, so here goes. Strap yourself in… “The market, and capitalism, […]
Sabotage the PMO…by Undermining Assurance
Assurance is your friend. I’ve heard it described by a mentor as the “conscience of Delivery.” It exists to ask two questions: “Are we doing the right things?” and “Are we doing […]
Be Paranoid! Log Everything!
“Hey BA,” his name wasn’t BA…this isn’t A-Team fan-fiction, “Are the requirements ready?” The BA shrugged, “No, still working on them.” Hmmm. “What’s holding this up? You said they’d be ready today.” […]
Sabotage The PMO…by Backsliding
“People say a heart attack is a warning sign that you have to make changes,” my friend proclaimed. Strange, I thought, isn’t a heart attack a sign that you’re moments from death […]
Goin’ Contractin’ (Part 4)
“We’re paid more than most permie Managing Directors in this country, you know?” the PM asked, “So we have to make sure we show we’re worth it. We have to demonstrate value.” […]