: 8 ways to streamline outsourced project management #IndiaNEWS #Contributor Think about your dream project management experience. What does it look like? A talented team of self-motivated individuals,

8 ways to streamline outsourced project management #IndiaNEWS #Contributor
Think about your dream project management experience. What does it look like? A talented team of self-motivated individuals, working in harmony to reach a common goal? Complex requirements simplified? Resources well-allocated and costs kept well within budget? Issues handled without deadlines being disrupted, leading to a smooth road to completion?

In reality, we know that projects seldom work like this, and working with a remote team of freelancers creates its own challenges. The chances are you’ll have to select people with the right technical skills, so there won’t be an issue.

The key to success, however, will be creating effective communication and collaboration between internal and external stakeholders. These two factors will make the difference between an efficient, project and one which is stressful and hard to manage.

In this article, well look at the keys to streamlining outsourced projects.

1. Let them know who you are

Start with the basics. With the right team in place, it’s essential to ensure that they all understand the fundamentals of your business before kick-off: project objectives, clients, processes, and internal stakeholders.

Sharing as much relevant information as possible about your company culture and strategic goals will ensure that freelancers and external agencies are aligned to create value for you via their project work.

2. Ensure the scope is clear

Clarifying the scope is also basic. What may be clear for those of you inside the business may not be so obvious to those coming in for a single contract. While it may take time to agree on the exact nature of deliverables, and achievable timelines, clarifying these will prevent delays and hitches as the project progresses.

3. Identify risks in advance

One of the advantages of working with freelancers is that they arrive with a diverse perspective. They may be able to identify the risks which could prevent them from progressing towards their milestones. Youll also be able to involve them in identifying solutions.

In every project, unexpected issues can arise and disrupt the schedule, or budget. This is why all stakeholders should be involved in identifying potential roadblocks before the project starts so that in case they arise, you can be agile in taking action to mitigate their effects.

4. Use a powerful PM software tool

Trying to manage even a simple project via email is a nightmare. Once the project kicks off, ensure that the team is using project management software (such as Asana, JIRAm, or Monday. com) that encourages collaboration and ensures real-time access to project data.

When all team members have visibility of the project, the information required, and the progress, everyone is more likely to stay on track.