Ask Cadence: The Project Management Podcast

In this episode's conclusion to "The 8 Biggest Problems" podcast, Cadence president John Patton brings you problem number eight in the series: Project Managers are Passive.

"In some companies, this is problem number one. I've saved it until problem number one, however, because I want to underscore it's importance."

There's a core confusion in organizations between coordination and leadership. A coordinator assists the project manager in the logistical needs and support of the project. "They're describing the wake at the rear of the boat," says Patton. They are not project leaders.

On the other hand, project managers are well prepared with excuses defending poor project performance. "One of the most common," says Patton, "'This project was delayed due to circumstances beyond my control.' If it's out of their control, how could they possibly steer the project around it?"

Part 2: What information do you need as a project manager flowing into your operation in order to know what’s happening on the project, and how to make corrective action as appropriate? It’s easy to get overwhelmed with project data — this week, John Patton and Scott Lissit join host Pete Wright to help you find strategies for managing project information to stay in control and not become over-burdened.

It may seem like stakeholder meddling, but external influences competing for attention on your project can be a symptom of a much larger problem. This week, John Patton and Jay Christensen help you focus on the lifecycle, using a few key tactics to ensure all your project stakeholders are working with you to keep the project focused — not distracting you from getting your project work done.

The election for the 44th president of the United States of America has reset the bar against which campaigns will be measured. From unprecedented volunteerism to savvy strategy, the 2008 campaign season offers telling lessons in progressive project management. On today’s show, join Cadence CEO John Patton and Scott Lissit as they draw their own project conclusions as the polls, and this season, draws to its close.

There is no perfect way to implement a project management methodology. This week, John Patton and Scott Lissit join host Pete Wright as they unravel the complexities of project methodology implementation and outlining the best practices that define successful companies in their journey toward project management maturity.