II Module (Bare Truth in Project Management)

Great Sponsor + Great PM = Great Success: Ten Truths of an Effective Sponsor/PM Partnership

Truth #1:
Great sponsors clearly articulate a root-cause problem to be solved. Great PM's make sure the team knows (and remembers) what problem is being solved.

Truth #2:
Great sponsors ensure the solution solves the root cause problem. Great PM's don't allow solutions to lose focus.

Truth #3:
Great sponsors enforce a "good enough" mindset. Great PM's don't use "good enough" as an excuse to cut scope.

Truth #4:
Great sponsors ensure the project has the right resources to get the work done. Great PM's articulate clear resource requests and "right size" the ask to the need.

Truth #5:
Great sponsors hold the PM and team accountable for results. Great PM's embrace the accountability and enforce it with the team.

Truth #6:
Great sponsors are on top of the big issues and stand at the ready to help resolve them. Great PM's articulate issues clearly and timely and escalate only those they can't solve.

Truth #7:
Great sponsors are an advocate, coach and battering ram for the project. Great PM's know how to leverage a sponsor and listen to the sponsor's counsel.

Truth #8:
Great sponsors willingly make tough decisions even if unpopular or politically charged. Great PM's provide clear and unbiased alternatives, information and consequences to support decision making.

Truth #9:
Great sponsors don't opportunistically increase scope if the project is going well. Great PM's keep the team focused on delivery and don't claim victory too soon.

Truth #10:
Great sponsors continually evaluate priorities and are willing to pull the plug on a project if it no longer makes sense to do. Great PM's don't get emotionally tied to a project and don't lobby to keep it alive if it should stop.