Projects need to operate on a pretty fixed timescale. You have an endpoint that you need to reach by a certain time, or else the project will be delayed. Evidently, many things can delay a project. Some of these things are uncontrollable, which is why delays are frustrating when they’re caused by things that are very much under your control.
For example, IT issues.
How do IT issues delay projects?
IT-related problems can delay your projects because they almost shut everything down. Common issues include problems with software applications that people are using. Your team keeps encountering errors or they simply don’t know how to use the application to the best of their abilities.
Another very common issue – and arguably the most infuriating – is losing your internet connectivity. When the internet goes down, work stops. You have to hurry around looking to get a 4G hotspot available, but this can mean the connection is slow and you can’t work efficiently.
Ultimately, you have a combination of tech and human errors at play. Tech errors are any issues deeply related to technology. Human errors are any issues where your employees struggle to use the technology they’ve been given. In both cases, productivity comes to a standstill, slowing down the project.
How can you prevent IT problems from delaying a project?
Realistically, there are two separate approaches.
To start, you need to handle the tech issues. The best way to do this is through managed IT support. As a result, you have an off-site team that manages your tech for you. They can ensure that your network is always up and running, while also ensuring that all software applications are updated and free from bugs. It should reduce the chances of tech problems occurring due to faults. You can also rely on IT expertise from a custom software developer. If you have software that’s made specifically for your business, there’s less chance you’ll run into faults down the line. The more your software back end has been tailored towards your needs, including scalability and the need to avoid downtime, the less likely these problems become. So, that’s one half of the problem taken care of already.
Secondly, you need to focus on human errors. Think about it, why do your employees struggle to use some of the apps and software you have available? In reality, they just don’t have enough experience of training using these things. You can counter this by offering training to your employees, letting them understand how to use all of the technology that’s in use throughout the project. Or, if you’re a new project manager that’s been tasked with putting a team together, focus on hiring individuals that possess the necessary skills. On job applications, list the programs or apps that are essential for this project. As a result, you only hire individuals that have proven experience using them.
Project delays can lead to a loss of money – and a lot of frustration. Therefore, finding out how to prevent delays and keep everything moving is essential. Yes, there are many other causes of project delays, but you need to focus on one at a time. Today, we’ve tackled IT-related problems, which should account for a large proportion of delays. Sort out the IT problems, and you will immediately see improvements in how productive and efficient your team is.
