LEADERSHIP

52 • LEADERSHIP
larger projects, each heading can expand as required when
using the files on a word processor.
To promote the use of your project process documents and checklists,
keep them as simple as possible and place them where everyone
has access. Many organizations set up a project section on
their networks where information, templates, procedures, and
checklists are readily available.
When considering which documents and checklists are
best for your project environment, keep in mind that brevity
encourages thinking. In contrast, complexity reduces thinking
(if it were important there would have been a box for it).
Complexity also reduces the likelihood that the documents
will be picked up and used. Think of these documents and
checklists as suitable for most small-to-medium-sized projects
and as a way to “prime the thought-process pump” on larger
projects. We’re all looking for time savers, not time wasters.
By the way, please don’t resell these documents. If you do,
may the ghost of failed projects curse you with a thousand
change orders. (Just kidding. I wouldn’t wish that on anyone—
projects are hard enough as it is.)
Process Control Documents
Concept checklist - The concept screening checklist helps
to ensure that only viable projects that support the organization’s
goals and objectives are allowed to proceed. Screening
criteria include preliminary investigations, feasibility studies,
evaluation of merit, strategic fit, viability, delivery of real benefit,
risk level, project portfolio fit, and whether doing the
project would detract from ongoing operations or other projects
or capacities. Project prioritization begins at this point.