Many project teams work together remotely these days. This has many unquestionable advantages, but it also brings new managerial challenges. So how can you manage a project that is in constant motion and also depends on people who do not see each other face to face? The Project Times website offers the following advice:
Make sure you have a strong team
The team should be managed by a project manager who is experienced in managing projects remotely. In addition to expert knowledge, all team members should also have strong communication skills and a high degree of self-motivation.
Start with a clear explanation
Before you launch the project, clearly determine the project’s goals as well as the specific roles and responsibilities. Answer all questions and clarify anything that is unclear. This will make all future work much easier.
Organize regular summary meetings
Whether you meet regularly in the office or via video conferences, the goal of these meetings is to jointly go through the project developments and avoid misunderstandings, which is something that happens relatively frequently when working remotely.
Use the right communication channels
Clarify in advance which channels you will use to communicate in specific situations. You can use instant messaging, Skype, e-mail, web-based applications such as Google Docs, as well as the company intranet. It’s important to agree on this. Also set a schedule specifying when you will work and when you will communicate. Don’t forget about time zones.
Set clear goals
Make sure that everyone knows the important deadlines for completing specific tasks and what role they play in the performance of these tasks. Also do not forget motivation. People working remotely easily lose their motivation and that is why one of the project manager’s main priorities should be keeping the subordinates motivated.
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