Here's how you can set realistic deadlines and manage client expectations in consulting.

I think this is the most important when accepting a job from the client. If the scope is not clearly defined, the client may change or expand the scope and you may find yourself in a position where the consulting never ends. The Client may also have unrealistic expectations and thus it's important to define the scope and also the success criteria such that the client will be receptive to sign off on the consulting project once ifs completed. If you find the scope unrealistic, gently remind your client what the industry best practices are and also leverage your experience to help them define the scope. In cases where am agreement cannot be reached, it may be better to decline the job rather than risk a negative feedback of an unhappy client

In my experience, a fundamental aspect in defining scope is to understand and validate dependencies with the client. For instance, if the scope involves optimizing a process that is dependent on data quality, it is crucial to ensure the time required for data cleansing or acquisition of the initial data. Similarly, I consider it key to align with the client on the validation processes of results or deliverables; whether they will be validated solely by the project lead or by multiple stakeholders. It is essential to establish a clear timeline for these validations. I have observed in many projects that the validation of deliverables can take weeks due to unclear responsibilities and validation timelines.

You can’t underestimate the value of assessing the change being undertaken. Too often transformative programs focus on features and implementation but forget the real human impact. For example, if you are implementing a new talent practice; what are the specific roles involved, what are the new expectations for execution? How will the process or new behaviour be measured? What will success look like? It’s a tremendous effort, but, until transformation is understood at the nuts and bolts level, you can’t really achieve true transformation. Transformation without change management is like a brand new shiny car, it’s gonna ride like a dream; but when you go to start, nothing happens. You check under the hood and there is no engine.

Um ponto importante é dedicação ao cliente nessa etapa, realizar conversas importantes mais de uma vez , costumo ter encontros/ reuniões longas para entendimento de todo processo interno , dores , objetivos , a empresa no todo, para que o diagnóstico seja o mais próximo possível da realidade. E a consultoria gere resultados.

Scoping IT projects often focuses solely on technology and processes with vague references to people - above the iceberg waterline. However, project success will largely depend on alignment between project goals and business strategy, leadership vision and commitment, and organizational maturity and culture as powerful forces hidden below the surface.

Sin duda, cuando abordamos un proceso de consultoría, él scope y los tiempos o deadlines son vitales, ya que en caso de no establecerlos, eternizaremos el proceso, perdiendo toda su fuerza

Effective project management in consulting hinges on realistic deadlines and satisfied clients. By thoroughly understanding project scope, creating detailed plans, and maintaining open communication, consultants can set expectations accurately. Flexibility is essential, but changes should be managed carefully. Regular progress monitoring helps identify potential issues early, ensuring timely delivery. Building trust through clear communication and a commitment to client satisfaction is paramount for long-term success.

Understanding the scope, developing a plan, and monitoring progress are necessary, but the key is to consistently manage expectations. No matter what project, the goal is to exceed expectations. Immediately identify and communicate any changes in the project. Remember bad news doesn't get better with time.

Understand the Scope of Work: Thoroughly discuss the project scope, objectives, and deliverables with the client upfront. Develop a Detailed Project Plan: Create a project plan that outlines the tasks, milestones, and timeline. Communicate Proactively: Maintain regular communication with the client throughout the project. Set Milestones and Checkpoints: Break down the project into smaller, manageable milestones. Document Agreements: Clearly document all agreements, timelines, and deliverables in the project contract. Be Transparent and Honest: If delays or challenges arise, communicate them to the client promptly.

Understand your client's burning issues in depth. Ask the right clarification questions ti get to the root causes of these issues. Set the expectations right from the start. Define riles and responsibilities and make sure that eaxh team member truly understands specific expectations for their engagement. Study the scope of work in details, re-align it with the client at the beginning, to avoid potential issues later on.

Plan tight, hang loose. Starting out I was always careful to break things down each step of a project. Part of my training as an occupational therapist, 'activity analysis' was key. With time, I realized the plan is critical to allowing you to be in the moment and add your personal creative flare. And don't think that is something to ignore. Folks are hiring you because of YOU so plan tightly so that you can your personal nuances with confidence.

Ese tiempo y plazos, los tenemos que llevar a un plan, que debe de ser detallado, realista y consensuado para su correcta ejecución

Breaking down a project into smaller, manageable tasks is crucial for accurate time estimation and resource allocation. A study by the Project Management Institute found that projects with clear work breakdown structures are 25% more likely to meet their deadlines. By assigning specific tasks to team members and estimating the time required for each, consultants can create a detailed project timeline. Building in buffer time is essential, as unexpected challenges are inevitable in any project. A recent survey by McKinsey & Company revealed that 70% of projects exceed their original timeline due to unforeseen circumstances.

Plan the Work, Review it Periodically and Work the Plan: The Key to Meticulous Planning! Once you have a grasp on the project scope, meticulous planning is key. Here are some essential steps to ensure your project runs smoothly: ☑ Define Clear Objectives: Establish specific, measurable goals for the project. ☑ Prioritize Tasks: Identify and focus on the most critical tasks first. ☑ Allocate Resources Wisely: Ensure necessary resources are appropriately allocated. ☑ Monitor Progress Regularly: Track progress through regular check-ins and updates. ☑ Review and Readjust Plan: Continuously adjust plans for the long term, midterm, monthly, weekly, and daily. Happy planning! #ProjectManagement #Consulting #MeticulousPlanning

Understanding our clients' both known and unknown is key to our success. By getting the facts straight, using strong PROVEN teams, and under promising but overdelivering, we build trust and ensure long-term satisfaction.

Meticulous planning is the cornerstone of successful consulting projects. By breaking down the project into smaller, manageable tasks and assigning timelines, you create a clear roadmap that enhances team efficiency and accountability. This structured approach not only ensures timely delivery but also helps in identifying potential bottlenecks early, allowing for proactive problem-solving.

Um planejamento meticuloso é essencial para definir prazos realistas. Divida o projeto em etapas menores e estimativas de tempo para cada uma delas. Utilize ferramentas de gerenciamento de projetos, como cronogramas de Gantt, para visualizar e organizar as tarefas. Inclua buffers de tempo para imprevistos e revise o plano com sua equipe para garantir que todos os aspectos foram considerados.

Zweifellos werden Sie hier nur richtige Aussagen treffen. Persönlich erlebe Projekte so, dass sie schnell zu Elefanten werden - und wie wird ein Elefant gegessen? Scheibchen für Scheibchen, sonst wird es zu unhandlich. Zerlegen Sie das Projekt in kleine, überschaubare Aufgaben und terminieren Sie jede einzelne. Visualisieren Sie den Zeitplan und die Abhängigkeiten mit Projektmanagement-Tools wie Gantt-Diagrammen oder der Critical-Path-Methode. Ein ausführlicher Plan hilft, sich überlappende Aktivitäten zu identifizieren und sorgt dafür, dass für jede Aufgabe genügend Zeit eingeplant wird. Lieber etwas mehr Zeit einplanen, als nicht liefern. Und das Wichtigste - es spielt keine Rolle, wo sie anfangen. Wichtig ist, dass sie anfangen.

Opinión polémica: Una planificación meticulosa te lleva al fracaso y frustración porque siempre, siempre, surgen inconvenientes. Cuanto más riguroso seas en la planificación, más explicaciones debes dar después, y más estrés vas a (auto)generar. Entonces: Lo que sí puedes hacer es ESTABLECER MUY BIEN: el PROPÓSITO del proyecto, los ROLES de todos los implicados, los HITOS a conseguir por cada subequipo en un plazo realista, y los CANALES y MÉTODOS de trabajo y COMUNICACIÓN. Con la mirada siempre en el siguiente horizonte, pero dando margen a los equipos para ordenarse y autogestionarse, se relaja el ambiente, se empodera a los profesionales, y se trabaja de forma común y transparente. "De global a local", esa frase que siempre funciona!

Planning is not an option, it's a weapon. Digital entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk asserts: “Micro time management is the secret to macro results.” Forget vague plans. Here's the relentless strategy: Brutal atomization of the project. Ruthless timing of every task. Aggressive visualization with Gantt or CPM. Merciless identification of overlaps. Strategic overestimation of deadlines. Result: a battle plan, not a wish list. Amazon reduced delays by 40% with this approach. Fuzzy projects fail. Precision triumphs. Choose: master every minute or perish in chaos.

Not only adopting the Agile framework is the key but also how efficiently the value is being delivered in regular intervals. According to me there are following two important aspects - 1. Monitoring KPIs during the project phases is crucial for meeting deadlines. However the important aspect is to convey impacts of the progress made to ensure client satisfaction. 2. I feel along with communication it's very crucial to identify key stakeholders who are responsible in the project journey. To understand who is responsible for a particular set of actions ensures aligning them align with business objectives and goals of an organisation as a whole.

To set realistic deadlines and keep clients happy in consulting, it's important to communicate clearly. Begin by talking about the project goals and timelines with your client. Share a detailed plan with key steps and what you'll deliver. Keep the client updated on progress and let them know right away if there are any delays. Explain any problems that might affect deadlines in simple terms. By being open and honest, you build trust and help clients understand the timeline, making it easier to manage their expectations.

Expect the unexpected.. whether it's requirements gaps, timeline mismatch or anything. I have seen, all leaders and client trust honesty and clear communication and transparency is key. Also, communication on expectation with team and subordinates with clear expectation is equally important.

1. Clearly define project scope and objectives. 2. Establish open communication channels with clients. 3. Set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) deadlines. 4. Break down large projects into smaller, manageable tasks. 5. Provide regular progress updates and adjust timelines as needed. 6. Manage client expectations through transparent communication and active listening. 7. Be flexible and adapt to changing project requirements. 8. Set realistic milestones and key performance indicators (KPIs). Additionally, - Using project management tools to track progress and timelines. - Setting clear boundaries and expectations. - Providing education and guidance to clients on the consulting process.

De igual forma que establecemos los plazos en el plan, tenemos que detallar las vías de comunicación, los tiempos y personas responsables, para que la información sea en ambas direcciones, rápida y fluida

Often times the most complex or simple projects become convoluted due to a simple aspect of communication - Transparency. With the age old philosophy of customer being the king, we forget the king is as human as consultants are. While deadlines are called so because someone is dying if the task at hand isn't complete, but a promise or evidence at producing quality outcomes might help in getting an extension. While all of this is true, we need to make sure that we instate systems which allow a constant communication across levels to have the clients' buy-in on any possible extension. Communication brings in the element of empathy into the process and that helps significantly in negotiating for resources as well as change in timelines.

Communicating progress and status of any engagement is critical to long term success. I like to use a stoplight metaphor-Green means everything is on track-no problems with delivery. Yellow means we've had some delays that may impact scope, budget or scope - BUT - we are confident we can remedy them within our current resources/approach. RED means we have one or material issues that will cause issues with scope, budget or timeframe and we need specific input or decisions from the sponsor or steering committee. This means that RED requires engagement, and once provided, the project can continue. This means there is value in 'throwing a red flag' as it means you are focused on successful outcomes - rather than being reticent to give bad news.

In consulting, clear communication is the cornerstone of client satisfaction. It's crucial to establish a cadence of regular updates to keep the client informed and involved. When challenges arise, addressing them promptly with the client not only demonstrates transparency but also reinforces the partnership. It's a delicate balance to manage expectations while being adaptable to changes, but it's this flexibility combined with proactive communication that often leads to successful project outcomes and long-term client relationships.

A comunicação clara e contínua com o cliente é vital. Explique o processo de planejamento e como você chegou aos prazos propostos. Certifique-se de que o cliente compreenda as etapas do projeto, os marcos e os prazos intermediários. Estabeleça expectativas realistas desde o início e mantenha o cliente informado sobre o progresso e quaisquer mudanças necessárias.

Ärlighet i din rapportering är svårt speciellt om det går emot vad din kund vill höra men det är utöver din yrkeskompetens det viktigaste du som konsult har att erbjuda. Våga peka ut fel, brister eller vad det nu är som du upptäckt, så fort och rakt du kan. Jag har varit med om uppdrag som inte blir av för att jag har upptäckt brister eller felaktigheter i ett tidigt skede, vissa som helt stoppat en uppstart av ett projekt. Jag kanske missar en intäkt pga min ärlighet men kunden kan ha sparat både tid och pengar på att inte gå fel i din investering. Ibland har kunden kommit tillbaka igen och istället utökat uppdraget eller åtgärdat bristen och vill köra igång på nytt.

Changes happen in every project. When they do, check how they affect the plan and deadlines. Be flexible and adjust your plan without causing too many problems. If changes mean more time is needed, explain why to the client and get their approval. Write down all changes and how they impact the project to keep everything clear.

As a consultant, it's essential to approach change management proactively. By anticipating potential changes and having a flexible yet structured plan, you can mitigate risks and maintain project momentum. Clear communication with the client about the impact of changes on scope and deadlines is key to managing expectations. Documenting changes thoroughly ensures transparency and can serve as a learning tool for future projects. Adaptability without sacrificing project goals is a hallmark of successful consulting.

Projetos raramente seguem exatamente como planejado, e mudanças podem ser inevitáveis. Estabeleça um processo claro para gerenciar alterações no escopo e nos prazos. Discuta com o cliente como as mudanças serão avaliadas, aprovadas e implementadas. Documente todas as alterações e ajuste os prazos conforme necessário, comunicando claramente as implicações para o cliente.

Trotz der akribischen Berechnungen unzähliger Frauen, auf denen der Erfolg der Apollo-Raketen beruhte, gibt es die Anekdote, dass die Raketen nur wenige Prozent der Zeit auf Kurs waren. Und trotzdem - sie landeten auf dem Mond. Worauf ich hinaus will: Änderungen sind in jedem Projekt unvermeidlich. Schätzen Sie die Auswirkungen der Änderungen auf den Projektumfang und den Zeitplan ab. Seien Sie flexibel genug, um Ihren Plan anzupassen und gleichzeitig Unterbrechungen zu minimieren. Kommunizieren Sie mit dem Kunden und holen Sie seine Zustimmung ein. Wie Houston mit den Astronauten, um die Rakete wieder auf Kurs zu bringen. Dokumentieren Sie Änderungen und ihre Auswirkungen sorgfältig, um Klarheit und Verantwortlichkeit zu gewährleisten.

In consulting, it's crucial to set realistic deadlines and manage client expectations by thoroughly understanding the project's scope and analyzing industry trends to anticipate potential challenges. This approach allows consultants to provide accurate timeframes and deliverables, ensuring they align with the client's needs and expectations.

Change is not an obstacle, it's an opportunity. Uncertainty expert Nassim Taleb says, “In a chaotic world, adaptability is the only true stability.” Forget rigidity. Here's agility in action: Rapid impact assessment. Abrupt plan adjustments. Unfiltered communication to the customer. Relentless documentation of changes. Fierce team adaptation. Result: agility that turns crises into victories. Airbnb increased productivity by 35% by embracing chaos. Rigid projects break down. Adaptability triumphs. Choose: ride change or be swallowed up by it

Change is an inherent aspect of any project. When modifications are necessary, meticulously evaluate their repercussions on the project’s scope and schedule. Maintain the agility to adjust your strategies while mitigating disruptions. Should a change request necessitate a timeline extension, elucidate the rationale to the client and secure their concurrence on the revised deadline. Diligently document all changes and their implications to ensure transparency and accountability throughout the project's duration.

I agree 100%. If a client uses the word “only”, at that point you need to go back to the start so that you are both on the same page and not misunderstanding the complexity of requested change.

Keep track of the project often to stay on schedule. Have regular check-ins and use tools to see how things are going. If you're falling behind, take action quickly. This could mean moving resources, changing task priorities, or talking to the client about new deadlines.

An effective use of project tracking tools allow you to detect deviations from the plan early and make modifications for corrective actions is necessary. Early changes is better than later ones.

Regular monitoring of project progress is not just about meeting deadlines, it's also about identifying potential risks and issues early on. By implementing periodic check-ins, consultants can adjust their strategies and communicate any changes to the client proactively. This approach helps in maintaining transparency and building trust with the client, which is crucial in the consulting industry.

Acompanhe o progresso do projeto regularmente para garantir que está dentro do cronograma. Utilize ferramentas de monitoramento e relatórios de status para identificar possíveis atrasos ou problemas antecipadamente. Realize reuniões de check-in com a equipe e o cliente para revisar o progresso e ajustar os planos conforme necessário.

Würden Sie sich ein Formel-1-Rennen ansehen, auch wenn Sie nicht wüssten, wer an der Spitze liegt? Wohl kaum. Dieses Echtzeit-Feedback, wer wo steht, macht das Rennen spannend. Das Gleiche gilt für den Funkverkehr. Führen Sie regelmässige Check-Ins durch und nutzen Sie Tools zur Projektüberwachung, um Abweichungen frühzeitig zu erkennen. Leiten Sie bei Verzögerungen sofort Korrekturmassnahmen ein, wie z.B. die Umverteilung von Ressourcen oder die Anpassung von Prioritäten. Verhandeln Sie gegebenenfalls Termine neu. Manövrieren Sie sich elegant durch die Kurven des Umfangs, der Änderungen und der Fortschrittsüberwachung, um die Erwartungen des Kunden erfolgreich zu managen. Das schafft Vertrauen und trägt entscheidend zum Projekterfolg bei.

Trust is paramount. Open and transparent communication is absolutely vital from both client and the consultant. Sometimes things go wrong, own the issue early and be upfront. Respect is the difference between having an account and having a client.

Monitorar os passos de tempos em tempos, e com certeza corrigir a rota caso algo nao saia como o previsto. A coisa nao precisa ser engessada, ela so precisa ser realista .

Clearly define and communicate the project scope upfront and build buffer time for each phase. Ensuring everyone understands what the project includes and adding extra time to account for unforeseen delays can prevent misunderstandings, avoid scope creep, and consistently meet or exceed client expectations.

When leading an engagement, it is not uncommon to have very broad and high expectations from a client. As the initial phases of the engagement progress, it becomes clear that there are a number of core issues that account for the majority of value (Pareto group - 20% of requirements drive 80% of value) and there are the trivial many (80% of requirements that drive 20% of value). The most effective leaders work to identify and classify requirements in this way so they can drive discussion about what the client feels is most important. The 20/80 group is always prioritized, and the 80/20 group becomes the source of flexibility. This lets everyone focus on high value outcome while being efficient.

In consulting, flexibility is crucial as it demonstrates adaptability and a client-centric approach. However, it's important to balance this with clear boundaries to maintain project integrity. Offering flexibility within reason can lead to stronger client relationships and repeat business, as it shows you're willing to work collaboratively to achieve the best outcome. Always document any changes agreed upon to ensure transparency and accountability.

Flexibility can be a pivotal factor in managing client expectations and fostering enduring relationships. While it is imperative to adhere to initial deadlines, demonstrating a willingness to accommodate minor adjustments based on legitimate client feedback or unforeseen contingencies can be advantageous. This approach cultivates goodwill and fosters long-term partnerships. However, it is crucial to ensure that any modifications are judicious and do not compromise the integrity of your work or the overarching success of the project.

There are always multiple paths in problem-solving and the optimal solution considers the proper balance among effectiveness, lead time, cost, and relevance of side-effects. It is mandatory to involve all stakeholders in the decision process, defining different weights for their opinions, according to the final solution's influence on each party's goals and performance.

Embora seja importante manter o controle sobre o cronograma, também é crucial ser flexível. Esteja aberto a renegociar prazos quando necessário, especialmente se surgirem circunstâncias imprevistas. Demonstrar flexibilidade e disposição para colaborar com o cliente pode fortalecer o relacionamento e aumentar a confiança mútua.

Flexibility is an art, not a weakness. Reid Hoffman, co-founder of LinkedIn, says: “Rigidity is the poison of innovation. Flexibility is the antidote.” Forget plans set in stone. Here's the fluid approach: Firmly set limits. Strategic openness to adjustment. Rapid assessment of demands. Negotiate without compromising quality. Agile adaptation, within reason. Result: flexibility that strengthens, not bends. Netflix increased customer satisfaction by 28% with this method. Rigid projects break down. Intelligent flexibility triumphs. Choose: be flexible or be obsolete

En la gestión de la flexibilidad, es esencial reconocer que los cambios pueden desencadenar respuestas emocionales complejas en los clientes, como el miedo o la incertidumbre. Desde mi perspectiva, es clave abordar estas reacciones con una comunicación clara y empática, que explique los motivos detrás de los ajustes y resalte sus beneficios.

It is virtually impossible for the client to know as much about the work that’s being undertaken as you do. So as a consult you need to understand that as a client becomes more educated, they may want adjustments to the contract. Plan for this at the start of the project.