"Communication can make or break a project. Here's how to make sure all the key players are always in the loop. "

I came across this great article that talks about communication and the important role communication plays in project management.  Communication is key to the success of every project. Not only in the planning phase and kickoff meeting, but also throughout the course of the project, and even after the completion of the project.

I was watching TV the other night and came across a report on the news about our country’s homeless situation.  In the report – it was mentioned that there is a devastating trend in our American cities to criminalize the homeless.  I’ve since done some research into this area, inquired about this issue further with a few clients and here’s what I’ve found…

My daughter recently competed in an oratorical competition titled “How my best brings out the best in others”.  As I watched her list out traits she thought influenced others to be their best and listen to her practice her speech, I thought “What is my best”?   Am I doing my best to bring out the best, the “talent”, in my family, my friends, even my co-workers?  How do my actions influence those I work with?

No one wants their project to fail or go over budget however, this is a common occurrence due, in part, to poor planning at the onset of the project planning process.  Identifying the Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How are the first steps to creating a successful Project Team and Project Plan. Taking the time to ensure that you pick the right team, ensure that your team has the appropriate knowledge, providing a clear communication process and timelines will certainly put your project on the right path.

WHEN CLOUDS FORM

In 2013 this blog reported on the meltdown in service at the Veteran’s Administration (VA). Similar signs of meltdown are beginning to gather in Child Protective Services. IN general – our team has been communicating what our clients have been telling us for years and why they moved to FAMCare.  We’ve talked about problems in child welfare and CPS in the states of Florida, Georgia, California and Texas.  Case Worker colleagues report crushing workloads, fear-based management, impossible expectations, and stress levels that are sending case workers out on medical leave at an alarming rate.

As many of you know, if you’ve been following my other posts, I have a passion for customers we serve because of my experience growing up as the son of house parents.  They can’t call them that any more, and no one actually lives in the same residence as the clients.  Times have really changed.

Improving Access to Mental Health Act of 2015 (S.2173/H.R. 3712)

As you may have noticed, I have diligently avoided politics in this blog.  Every now and then, however, a social or professional issue wanders into the arena of politics, and I cannot completely ignore the issue.

The software industry is still a relatively “young” industry- think car manufacturing, steel manufacturing etc. begun more than a hundred years ago versus software starting in the 50’s but only becoming widespread in the late 80’s/early 90's. There is also the creative side of software design that enters the picture. Because of this there are many temptations to have a homegrown system built just for your organization.

What would a PC be without Windows? Back in the day I purchased a high powered laptop from an Internet dealer that was shipped without Windows preloaded. I removed the gleaming new machine from the box and immediately had one of those moments when you thought you knew where you were going, but suddenly realized you were lost. Here was the latest computer with the most robust memory and the fastest processor on the market, and I had no idea how to use it. I didn’t even know how to turn it on, let alone put it to work.