Three Circles Consulting Ltd

The Outstanding Project (September 2009) PDF Print E-mail

When you experience problems with your projects, what is working well for you in resolving them? 

Please take a moment to email your successes.

Why do so many organisations suffer significant challenges when delivering projects?


A recently published discussion paper describes the results of research into the root causes of project variance, across the biomedical sector.

The paper presents the interim findings of the research, highlights the actual impacts of significant project variances and identifies the key characteristics that differentiate successful projects.

Since publishing the discussion paper, the type of comments we are getting include...

"The differences identified for successful projects helped us to develop some clear actions to reduce our project risk"

"... really liked the practical steps we can take to reduce the risk of our project failing"

"It's good to see that our project experiences aren't unusual"

".. understand the fundamental importance of identifying the objectives and success criteria for a project"

"We have been able to identify common threads, across our project portfolio, that were leading to significant issues in many projects"

"Bringing the reasons for project failure together in one place, in such a clear way, is really helpful. These results really chime with my experiences"

"... reinforces the importance of not just following a methodology, but also taking care of the soft stuff"


One of the ways people are using these results is to identify and guide changes in project management culture. Typically, this involves a move away from documenting and reporting projects on top of the day job, towards a more balanced approach to both the "hard" and "soft" skills associated with successful projects.

Click here to read more, and to download your copy of the discussion paper.

Don't forget to let me know - when you experience problems with your projects, what is working well for you in resolving them. 

Take a moment to email your successes.  We will publish a selection in our next issue.


Matthew Theobald

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