Kevin Learns a New Trick

​Learning computer software for the project.

As a cat, Kevin does not learn new tricks well.  If he does ​choose ​to acquire a new talent, then he is really bored because it is too cold to go outside or he has been motivated by kitty treats.

​Depending on your industry, software and programs can be required to update monthly or yearly.  With this intense schedule for latest version release, you need to know what the software and programs are being used for to properly lead a project group.  It is advantageous to understand the roles or the individuals on the team and what software and programs they need to use to work effectively and efficiently.  Knowing what aspect of the project each person is responsible for allows you to accurately determine the billable time required to complete tasks.  This does not mean you need to sacrifice time and money to learn the software and program(s) as a high-end user, but time spent enriching your understanding will make you better at organizing the project execution.  Think of it as your own episode of Undercover Boss. 

Project Managers should be patient with a team that has a stupid deliverable and who have recently learned a program.

​Assessing the software and programs can reveal what could be slowing the project down or creating stress for the users.  How the software and programs are used if the team is derived from individuals from all over the world is crucial.  There isn't time for experimental computer connections or software compatibility.  This research needs to be done at the time of Overall Project Plan genesis or factored into the project schedule. 

​The complexity of projects increase daily and so do the complexities of software and programs required for  deliverables.  There can be four or five programs you use daily, to complete your work.  There can also be a disconnect between upper management and the team executing the project work with not knowing the strain that software and programs can place on the project deliverable.  An optimal team would have individuals cross-trained in several tasks with having a specialty in one element, like having a major and minor.  The rise of the generalists. 

​Mandatory training seminars can ensure attendance by the necessary parties, but the training seminar durations need to be realistic.  It is hard for management and team members to find time with their regular daily duties.   All-day seminars and then no direct implementation wastes the companies time and money. 

​It has been several weeks, but Kevin is sitting up for his treats.  There are times he stares at me with disgust, but I know he wants a reward.  Now if I could teach him to clean his litterbox...