It seems like every project we complete is finished at the last possible minute. We promise ourselves that next time it will be different, but it rarely is. In this presentation, I examine why we complete projects at the last minute, what that is probably okay, and describe three strategies you can use to manage time/workload to gain a little more breathing room.

1. PANIC!
Why projects always finish at the last minute

2. Performance
Time
Deadline
Expected Performance
Theoretical Model of Project Management

3. 20 minutes
Performance
Time
Deadline
How Projects Actually get Done

4. Expected PerformancePerformance
Time
Deadline
What if you can’t
compromise on quality?

5. Possible Performance
Required
Performance
Performance
Time
Deadline
Are we really compromising
on quality?

6. DeadlineS
Who gets to work on only
one project at a time?
Performance
Time

9. Shrink the gap between expected and
possible—quickly and early
Consult with those involved
Rely on facts, not opinions
Possible Performance

10. Identify gaps between what’s ‘required’
and what’s possible
Beware of diminishing returns
Choose where to invest extra effort
Possible Performance
Required
Performance

11. Frame your Information Effectively
Problem
Solution
Benefit

12. Manage your Workload
Yes, and ...

13. Thank you
Eben Watt
ebwatt@shaw.ca
www.ebenwatt.com