4 Questions Every Project Manager Should Be Able to Answer

At the heart of every project are key questions every project manager should be able to answer, no matter how small or large the project is. Answers to these questions can help set direction for the project and lay the foundation for a successful project once it commences.

1. Why is this project needed?

Whether you've been recruited mid-way into a project or will be involved from the onset, you need to take the time to understand the underlying reasons for the project. You’ll need to assess the reason why the project is needed – Is it to exploit an opportunity, mitigate risk or save costs? Knowing what the reasons are from the get-go will help garner project support and collaboration down the track.

2. Where are we going with this?

Projects can fail all too easily if goals are not clearly defined upfront. The likelihood of team members having different interpretations or expectations of the project is as sure as the sun rises in the east and sets in the west. Being aware of these varying expectations is important, both for you and the stakeholders, so as to clarify the direction of the project and mitigate against scope creep.

3. How do we do it? 

With one and two out of the way, it's time to map out the plan to get the project off the ground. This plan should clearly define the project approach, milestones and timeframes. As a Project Manager, if there’s any deviation from the plan, you’ll need to alert stakeholders and work towards resolving the deviation.

4. Who does what?

As a project manager, you'll need to establish the roles of various parties and ensure they contribute towards the attainment of the agreed goals. Occasionally, 'players' may over-extend their boundaries or underperform. Your task is to get them back on track.