Don't forget your processes

When things get tough or you get busy, it’s essential not to forget about your own processes.

When projects are on fire the pressure builds quickly - deadlines slip, dependencies go unmet. It’s so easy to let your processes slide during these times.

Update your project management tool

One of the first things that often gets overlooked? Updating your project management tool.

So what happens next?

😩 Communication shifts to emails.
😫 Someone might whip up a new spreadsheet.
😖 Phone calls and WhatsApp messages start flying around.

Suddenly, you don't have a single source of truth anymore. This might seem like a quick fix, but it doesn’t really help the project.

In fact, it usually leads to the project spiralling out of control.

Get changes agreed in writing

Here’s another common issue: changes aren’t managed properly.

You might have a chat with stakeholders from multiple teams, everyone nods in agreement to a change, just to keep things moving. You all want to get the project across the finish line.

But when it’s time to settle up, recouping payments for these change requests becomes a headache.

🤔 “I don’t remember that!?”
😕 “I wouldn’t have agreed to that!”
🤷‍♀️ “We weren’t told that it would cost extra?!”

I’ve seen this happen far too many times.

The fix? It’s simple. If your process requires a client’s signature before any changes are implemented, make sure to get that signature on the change request you send over BEFORE starting the work. It’s their project, after all. It’s in their interest to get it signed and keeps things moving.

You have to ensure you’re compensated for your work while helping your clients.

And to labour the point for those who need it - don’t feel bad about pushing clients to document agreement for work you are going to do.

It’s not rude or unprofessional - it’s the opposite, and it’s your job!

Stick to agreed comms channels

Another one? Skipping proper communication channels.

Say a developer is working late and speaks directly with the client, agreeing to changes. Without the full context, they might think they’re helping, only to complicate things elsewhere.

You built these for a reason

You’ve put a lot of effort into creating and implementing these processes. They’re not just bureaucratic red tape—they’re crucial, especially when deadlines are tight and the pressure’s on.

These tools are here to help you when your judgement might be clouded by stress or fatigue. Think of sticking to your processes as keeping things boring.

Sometimes, boring is good. Boring means things are running smoothly.

So, revisit your processes, take pride in them, and lean on them when you need to. They’re one of the best tools in your toolbox—they’re there to help you.

Want your processes to be boringly smooth? Get in touch, and let’s see where I can help 😀.