Rescue the Problem Project

PART I Understanding the Process and Realizing a Problem Exists 1

1 The Basics of the Recovery Process 3

2 Management’s Responsibility in

PART II Auditing the Project: Understanding the Issues 31

3 Assessing the Human Role in Project Failure 33

4 Auditing Scope on a Red Project 49

5 Determining Timeline Constraints 63

6 Examining Technology’s Effect on the Project 73

PART III Analyzing the Data: Planning for Project Recovery 81

7 Determining and Initiating Remedial Action 83

8 Building an Extended Project Team 93

9 Considering Options for Realigning Technology 109

10 Assessing How Methodology Affects the Project 119

11 How Agile Methodology Can Assist in a Recovery 131

12 How Critical Chain Methodology Can Assist in a Recovery 157

13 Comparing the Relative Value of Methodologies

PART IV Negotiating a Solution: Proposing Workable Resolutions 183

14 Proposing and Getting Agreement on a Recovery Plan 185

15 Dealing with “Unprojects” 205

PART V Executing the New Plan: Implementing the Solutions 213

16 Implementing Corrective Actions and Executing the Plan 215

PART VI Doing It Right the First Time: Avoiding Problems That Lead to Red Projects 221

17 Properly Defining a Project’s Initiation 223

18 Assembling the Right Team 231

19 Properly Dealing with Risk 239

20 Implementing Effective Change Management 253

Appendix: Files on the Rescue the Problem Project Web Site 263

TODD C. WILLIAMS, PMP is a senior project audit and recovery specialist with over 25 years of international experience.