Managing a project is all about the relationship

Managing a project is about building and maintaining relationships.

It’s important to remember that behind the product, schedule, budget, and goals are people. When we work with a client on a project, we are working with a person who has a name, a team of people working with and for them, clients of their own, a specific organizational culture, expectations, and a unique set of beliefs and concepts.

It’s important to recognize that the client is not perfect, just like each one of us.

Essentially, every project is primarily a relationship, and managing this relationship is as important as any other aspect of the project, whether it’s meeting the schedule, ensuring product quality, or resolving issues along the way.

To maintain a healthy relationship with the client throughout the project, it’s essential to build trust, communicate regularly and effectively, listen to the client’s needs, seek compromises, accommodate unforeseen changes within reason, and, above all, show respect for the client.

It’s important to remember that we are working together on the project and that we need each other. This way, we can ask for support when we need it, receive understanding when we make mistakes, be flexible about project content, and address any other issues that may arise during the project.

In essence, a project is a relationship that requires attention and care throughout its lifespan.