Cadence Management Corporation » Ask Cadence Podcast

Ask Cadence: Ep 106 – How do you avoid jumping to implement?

Cadence Management Corporation — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 15:00:00 +0000

This week’s problem card asks, “we’re dealing with so many external influences demanding quick successes — how do you avoid jumping to implement in a way that drives success but doesn’t forget that you’re working on a project?” This week on the show, Connie Plowman joins Pete Wright to take on this issue with tips on planning, strategy, and nimble project management that allows you to be responsive to organizational demands without taking unnecessary risks.

Ask Cadence: Ep 106 - How do you avoid jumping to implement?

Ask Cadence: Ep 105 – Executives are not able to make decisions

Cadence Management Corporation — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 15:00:00 +0000

This week’s problem card focuses on the busy executive that, for whatever reason, is not making tough decisions quickly and is beginning to impact the smooth march forward of the project. This week on the show, Connie Plowman joins Pete Wright to walk through the roadblocks to executive decision making, and outlines key steps you can take to make sure your leadership team is equipped with the right data to make the right decisions for your project. In this episode, we make reference to the Cadence Problem Solving tool, which you can download from our forms and templates library.

Ask Cadence: Ep 105 - Executives are not able to make decisions

Ask Cadence: Ep 104 – Growing and Migrating Project Management Skill in Leadership

Cadence — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 16:28:20 +0000

Former Cadence COO Connie Plowman returns to Ask Cadence to discuss portability of the project management skill set in her new role. This week on the show, John Patton and Pete Wright talk with Connie as she shares the value of the project management domain in organizational leadership.

Ep 104: Growing and Migrating Project Management Skill in Leadership

Ask Cadence: Ep 103 – Career Planning in Acquisition

Cadence Management Corporation — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 15:00:00 +0000

A Cadence graduate called for help — after relocating for a promotion, his company was acquired by a new firm. Management roles changed, and it was time to renegotiate. This week on the show, John Patton and Pete Wright tackle this issue, and share guidance on planning your career in the face of company acquisition.

Ask Cadence: Ep 103 - Career Planning in Acquisition

Ask Cadence: Ep 102 – Dealing with a Devastating Loss to the Team

Cadence Management Corporation — Mon, 04 Jul 2011 15:00:00 +0000

This week’s project challenge comes from a recent attendee dealing with the loss of a critical team resource — a team member recently suffering a stroke. This sort of shock affects teams on many levels, from the deeply personal, to the profoundly professional. This week on the show, John Patton joins Pete Wright to take on this sort of devastating loss and discuss the recovery process ahead.

Ask Cadence: Ep 102 - Dealing with a Devastating Loss to the Team

Ask Cadence: Ep 101 – PMI Global Congress EMEA Recap with John Patton

Cadence Management Corporation — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 15:00:00 +0000

Each PMI Global Congress, we like to sit down with Cadence representatives and do a brief recap of lessons learned. This year’s Global Congress in Dublin gave us an excellent opportunity to visit trends in complexity and program management, as captured by some of the top thinkers in our field. This week on the show, John Patton joins Pete Wright for a discussion of highlights, and a sneak peak into terrific new work on complexity from PMI.

Ask Cadence: Ep 100 - Giving Back

Ask Cadence: Ep 100 – Giving Back – Cadence and the PMI Education Foundation

Cadence Management Corporation — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 15:00:00 +0000

The Project Management Institute’s Education Foundation is a foundation for spearheading the kinds of projects that support building best-in-class project managers for the future. This week on the show, John Patton and Pete Wright review the role of this important part of our project management ecosystem and cover how the foundation drives project management education around the world.

Ask Cadence: Ep 100 - Giving Back

Ask Cadence: Ep 99 – Why should an organization pursue portfolio and program management?

Cadence Management Corporation — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 15:00:00 +0000

Organizations that invest in developing their project management initiatives quickly recognize the complexity that comes with newfound sophistication. To tackle broader and more robust initiatives, portfolio and program management offer a new basket of tools and skills for medium and large organizations to apply. This week on the show, John Patton and Pete Wright discuss the organizational impact of a portfolio and program management initiative and offer ideas on how you can begin to drive toward these new tools in your own project management environment.

Ask Cadence: Ep 99 - Why should an organization pursue portfolio and program management?

Ask Cadence: Ep 98 – Don’t Fear PMs who aren’t technical people!

Cadence Management Corporation — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 15:00:00 +0000

There is a fear and misconception that project managers without technical or engineering skill will put the projects they manage at risk. Further, that organizations that adopt project management across the company, the only kind of project manager that surfaces will be the non-technical sort. This week on the show, John Patton and Pete Wright take on the fear, not to defend the non-technical project manager, but to give you ideas on how to best integrate the non-technical project manager into a smart, technically-focused project organization.

Ask Cadence: Ep 98 - Don't Fear PMs who aren't technical people!

Ask Cadence: Ep 97 – John Patton on 28 years with PMI

Cadence Management Corporation — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 15:00:00 +0000

For 28 years, John Patton has been serving and supporting the Project Management Institute, both as President and CEO of Cadence Management Corporation, and as a professional project manager and researcher of the field. This week on the show, join Patton and Pete Wright as they reflect on the history of PMI and the role of the organization in the life and work of project managers around the world.

Ask Cadence: Ep 97 - John Patton on 28 years with PMI

Ask Cadence: Ep 96 – Balancing customer priorities and managing difficult resources

Cadence Management Corporation — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 16:00:00 +0000

During the implementation phase of the project, the team is stretched by the customer to add to scope. It’s causing strain on the team and putting pressure on the schedule. This week on the show, Jay Christensen and John Patton join Pete Wright to discuss the critical importance of scope definition in planning, and how to manage the complex client relationship that evolves after profile development is complete.

Ask Cadence: Ep 96 - Balancing customer priorities and managing difficult resources

Ask Cadence: Ep 95 – Implementing a project with no plan for sustaining support

Cadence Management Corporation — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 16:00:00 +0000

The transition from project mode into operations is often every bit as critical as planning the project itself. This week on the show, John Patton and Jay Christensen join Pete Wright to take on this issue, and provide options for bringing transition planning back into the planning process, and under control.

Ask Cadence: Ep 95 - Implementing a project with no plan for sustaining support

Ask Cadence: Ep 94 – Introducing Project Management version 11.0

Cadence Management Corporation — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 16:00:00 +0000

This year, Cadence is rolling out the next major update to the core project management methodology training curriculum serving thousands of professional project managers around the world. This week on the show, Cadence CEO John Patton and Jay Christensen join Pete Wright to discuss what’s new in version 11.0, and how feedback from the community has helped to shape the best version of the Cadence core organizational project management course yet.

Ask Cadence: Ep 94 - Introducing Project Management version 11.0

Ask Cadence: Ep 93 – Lack of Timely Decision-Making

Cadence — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 16:00:00 +0000

Lack of timely decision-making can cause rework and re-scoping on projects. This week on the show, Jay Christensen and Pete Wright take on this challenge from a course attendee and offer suggestions for maintaining team focus and strong communication up and down the project hierarchy.

Ask Cadence: Ep 93 – Lack of Timely Decision-Making

Ask Cadence: Ep 92 – The Year in Review with John Patton

Cadence — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 05:00:00 +0000

Each year, we take the time to reflect on the year passed in our field, our business, and the role we serve as project managers for our organizations. This week on the show, Cadence CEO John Patton and Pete Wright review the year that has been, and the year to come for Cadence.

Ask Cadence: Ep 92 – The Year in Review with John Patton

Ask Cadence: Ep 91 – The clock is ticking, but the project isn’t authorized!

Cadence — Mon, 27 Dec 2010 16:00:00 +0000

You know the project is coming, but it hasn’t been authorized. As the window to deliver closes, how do you push sponsors to move the project forward before the schedule slips? This week on the show, Jay Christensen and Pete Wright take on this issue from an attendee with solutions for getting action without sacrificing reputation!

Ask Cadence: Ep 91 – The clock is ticking, but the project isn’t authorized!

Ask Cadence: Ep 90 – Unclear Priorities coming from the Steering Team

Cadence — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 16:00:00 +0000

This week on the show, Jay Christensen and Pete Wright discuss a key project management hurdle as presented in class: there are unclear priorities and mixed messages coming from the steering committee and an unwillingness to move projects down in priority. We cover the role of the portfolio manager and offer solutions for streamlining communication to ensure your teams are working on the right projects at the right time.

Ask Cadence: Ep 90 – Unclear Priorities coming from the Steering Team

Ask Cadence: Ep 89 – When the organization doesn’t believe in project management

Cadence — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 16:00:00 +0000

As a new team member in an organization, what do you do when those around don’t understand or believe in the power of project management? This week on the show we respond to this common yet difficult challenge with strategies for building success, support, and understanding, while helping your new team shine. Join John Patton, Jay Christensen, and Pete Wright this week on Ask Cadence.

Ask Cadence: Ep 89 – When the organization doesn’t believe in project management

Ask Cadence: Ep. 88 – Fond Farewell to Connie Plowman after 22 years with Cadence

Cadence — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 16:00:00 +0000

Cadence Vice President and COO has served almost every capacity in her 22 years at Cadence. She has served as leader and mentor across the project management community and helped countless practitioners achieve success through project management themselves. We at Cadence will miss her greatly in our day-to-day activity, but we’re thrilled to see what Connie will bring to our field in the next chapter of her journey. This week on Ask Cadence, a brief conversation with Connie on her tenure at Cadence, her journey in Project Management, and what comes next.

Ask Cadence: Ep. 88 – Fond Farewell to Connie Plowman after 22 years with Cadence

Ask Cadence Ep. 87 – Karl Franz on the ISO Review with Cadence, Year 2!

Cadence — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 15:00:37 +0000

Cadence has just completed our second year ISO audit and passed with flying colors! This week, ISO auditor Karl Franz joins us to talk about the process, the Cadence journey, and what the ISO commitment to quality means for working with Cadence.

Ask Cadence Ep. 87 – Karl Franz on the ISO Review with Cadence, Year 2!

Ask Cadence: Ep 86 – The Team is Growing – Introducing Craig Meuser

Cadence — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 15:00:24 +0000

At Cadence, the relationship we have with our partners is critical to delivering project results. That’s why we’re thrilled to be able to introduce Craig Meuser as our new director of global sales and marketing. We look forward to introducing you to Craig over the coming months!

Ask Cadence: Ep 86 – The Team is Growing – Introducing Craig Meuser

Ask Cadence: Ep 85 – The Importance of Training in Teams

Cadence — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 15:00:33 +0000

On projects, it’s all about the team. The same is true for training. This week on the show, John Patton and Pete Wright discuss the importance of attending training and consulting events in teams, leveraging the experience of training together to work on real projects, delivering real results fast.

Ask Cadence: Ep 85 – The Importance of Training in Teams

Ask Cadence: Ep 84 – Instructing Instructors on OPM, Programs, and Portfolios

Cadence — Mon, 11 Oct 2010 15:00:50 +0000

It’s bootcamp at Cadence — our annual opportunity to bring together our instructors from around the world to review and integrate the latest field experience into the Cadence Methodology. This year, we’re working on OPM, our focus on bringing alignment to the whole organization around project management from the top down. This week on the show, Cadence CEO John Patton and Pete Wright discuss the latest trends in the field and outline the Cadence approach to programs and portfolios.

Ask Cadence: Ep 84 – Instructing Instructors on OPM, Programs, and Portfolios

Ask Cadence: Ep 83 – PMI Congress Preview with John Patton

Cadence — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 15:00:24 +0000

The Cadence team is preparing for the trip to Washington to connect with the PMI global community at the PMI Global Congress 2010. This week on the show, Cadence CEO John Patton previews his upcoming presentation, “Life cycles for portfolio and program management,” and talks with Pete Wright about the evolving nature of the field and inspirational project leadership around the world.

For those attending PMI in Washington DC, make sure to meet John Monday, October 11, at 2:00 PM EST. The session number is TRN022.

Ask Cadence: Ep 83 – PMI Congress Preview with John Patton

Ask Cadence: Ep 82 – Bringing students and project managers together

Cadence — Wed, 19 May 2010 22:10:44 +0000

This week on the show, Connie Plowman and Prakash Achuthan join us to discuss the success of their recent event bringing MBA level project management students into the real world of PMs thanks to the generosity of Nike and PGE.

Ask Cadence: Ep 82 - Bringing students and project managers together

Prakash has graciously posted event photos online to share!

Ask Cadence: Ep 81 – Cadence grad Denise Tischler talks project management and elementary education

Cadence — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 20:35:11 +0000

The Cadence scholarship program for educators, in partnership with the PMI Education Foundation, has been a boon to teachers and administrators looking to bridge practical business and organizational skills with curricula. This week, join Pete Wright, Connie Plowman, and guest Denise Tischler to discuss her experience in the 3-day Cadence course, and how she will be using her new skills as a principal and administrator.

Ask Cadence: Ep 81 - Cadence grad Denise Tischler talks project management and elementary education

Ask Cadence: Ep 80 – The importance of cultural behavioral models in project management

Cadence — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:00:35 +0000

This week, we take on culture. Building off our on-going discussion on behavioral models for individuals and teams, John Patton and Pete Wright discuss the importance of defining and understanding cultural behavioral profiles in project management in light of the ever-increasing demands on teams to work in geographically and culturally diverse project environments.

Ask Cadence: Ep 80 - The importance of cultural behavioral models in project management

Ask Cadence: Ep 79 – The importance of group behavioral models in project management

Cadence — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 16:00:44 +0000

This week, we take on groups. Building off our discussion last week on individual behavior models, John Patton and Scott Lissit introduce group behavior dynamics and outline critical strategies for project managers who are bogged down by the discomfort that can come in the early phases of team development.

Ask Cadence: Ep 79 - The importance of group behavioral models in project management

Ask Cadence: Ep 78 – The importance of behavioral models in project management

Cadence — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 16:00:16 +0000

This week to dive into human behavior. For project managers, helping team members understand and quantify their strengths can be a critical asset in guiding the team to delivering results. John Patton and Scott Lissit introduce key behavioral models and instruments, and discuss how to apply them judiciously in individual and team development.

Ask Cadence: Ep 78 - The importance of behavioral models in project management

Ask Cadence: Ep 77 – Delivering Results with Vertical PM

Cadence — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 16:00:00 +0000

Setting responsibilities for delivering results in project management is critical for success on teams, but even more important for the management support hierarchy around projects. This week John Patton joins Pete Wright to discuss the key principles and responsibilities that each role must take on to ensure consistent success on projects.

Ask Cadence: Ep 77 - Delivering Results with Vertical PM

Ask Cadence: Ep 76 – The Importance of the CAPM Certification

Cadence — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 16:00:27 +0000

The CAPM certification from the Project Management Institute was originally fashioned as a milestone in the development of the professional project manager. But John Patton has a different take on the cert, one that positions team members as better prepared and supported team members, armed with the right tools to deliver project results for the team. John joins Pete Wright to talk about the importance of the certification this week on Ask Cadence.

Ask Cadence: Ep 76 - The Importance of the CAPM Certification

Ask Cadence: Ep 75 – Year In Review

Cadence — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 16:00:37 +0000

This week on Ask Cadence, we take a few minutes to reflect on accomplishments in the field in 2009. Cadence CEO John Patton joins Pete Wright to share his experiences surveying the field with PMI around the globe, and then look ahead to the growth we’re seeing in projects coming in 2010. Join us for this brief walk down memory lane, and a look at what’s to come, this week on Ask Cadence: The Project Management Podcast.

Ask Cadence: Ep 75 - Year In Review

Ask Cadence: Ep 74 – Special: 19 Techniques Part 7

Cadence — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 16:00:44 +0000

In part 7 of our special, “19 Techniques for managing people who do not report to you,” Jay Christensen and Rod Sharman join Pete Wright to discuss problem solving and managing progress of critical tasks. After 7 weeks of discussion on our 19 Techniques, we share some reflections on managing the people side of projects, and the importance of balance across key management disciplines in the best project managers.

Ask Cadence: Ep 74 - Special: 19 Techniques Part 7

Ask Cadence: Ep 73 – Special: 19 Techniques Part 6

Cadence — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 16:00:37 +0000

In part 6 of our special, “19 Techniques for managing people who do not report to you,” Jay Christensen and Rod Sharman join Pete Wright to discuss how project managers can manage difficult people on their teams. Through rapport-building exercises social activities, communication study, and functional management involvement, you’ll have a suite of tools to use to build a tighter team and keep the project moving forward.

Ask Cadence: Ep 73 - Special: 19 Techniques Part 6

Ask Cadence: Ep 72 – Special: 19 Techniques Part 5

Cadence — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 16:00:59 +0000

In part 5 of our special, “19 Techniques for managing people who do not report to you,” Jay Christensen and Rod Sharman join Pete Wright to discuss the importance of using facts and data in supporting positions on projects, how you can encourage critical thinking in your team, and what you need to do to support your team members in removing obstacles standing in the way of getting their work done.

Ask Cadence: Ep 72 - Special: 19 Techniques Part 5

Ask Cadence: Ep 71 – Special: 19 Techniques Part 4

Cadence — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 16:00:44 +0000

In part 4 of our special, “19 Techniques for managing people who do not report to you,” Jay Christensen and Rod Sharman join Pete Wright to discuss task definition, specifically around critical impact tasks, and how to manage these tasks in a way that encourages action and progress.

Ask Cadence: Ep 71 - Special: 19 Techniques Part 4

Ask Cadence: Ep 70 – Special: 19 Techniques Part 3

Cadence — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 16:00:27 +0000

In part 3 of our special, “19 Techniques for managing people who do not report to you,” Jay Christensen and Rod Sharman join Pete Wright to discuss issues and concerns, with special focus on how to manage resolution of issues in a visible way.

Ask Cadence: Ep 70 - Special: 19 Techniques Part 3

Ask Cadence: Ep 69 – Special: 19 Techniques Part 2

Cadence — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:00:12 +0000

In part 2 of our special, “19 Techniques for managing people who do not report to you,” Jay Christensen and Rod Sharman join Pete Wright to discuss roles and responsibilities on your projects, ensuring that commitments are clear and visible through the Responsibility Matrix and Schedule.

Ask Cadence: Ep 69 - Special: 19 Techniques Part 2

Ask Cadence: Ep 68 – Special: 19 Techniques Part 1

Cadence — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:00:38 +0000

This is part 1 of our special, “19 Techniques for managing people who do not report to you.” Jay Christensen and Rod Sharman join Pete Wright to discuss the importance of goal statements, clear objective statements, and a well-publicized project profile in getting the support you need to deliver project results.

Ask Cadence: Ep 68 - Special: 19 Techniques Part 1

Ask Cadence: Ep 67 – Roles are not understood across the organization

Cadence — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 07:21:35 +0000

You can help your organization understand the roles and skills required for the project management function — you just have to know where to start. This week, Jay Christensen joins Pete Wright to help outline the planning elements you’ll need to add to communication what will and will not be done on your project — and by whom!

Ask Cadence: Ep 67 - Roles are not understood across the organization

Ask Cadence: Ep 66 – Priority Between Groups

Cadence — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 07:20:56 +0000

When working to build your team, you may find yourself in a sticky political mess when you find different groups in your organization are prioritizing your project differently. Consistent prioritization is key to alignment on projects and requires the right mix of authority, will, and communication. This week, Jay Christensen joins Pete Wright to point you in the right direction as you help your organization master project prioritization.

Ask Cadence: Ep 66 - Priority Between Groups

Ask Cadence: Ep 65 – Management is Unrealistic about Impact on CSP

Cadence — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 07:20:18 +0000

You have a problem. You escalate to your sponsor or steering committee. Their response? Don’t worry, they’re sure you’ll be able to solve the problem without impacting Cost, Schedule or Performance! As frustrating as this response may be, listen in this week as Jay Christensen unravels the motivation behind this typical response, and gives you the tools you need to present the right solutions, just the right way!

Ask Cadence: Ep 65 - Management is Unrealistic about Impact on CSP

Ask Cadence: Ep 64 – Finding Support from Functional Managers

Cadence — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 07:19:20 +0000

Are you a project manager seeking support from the functional managers who have their employees on your teams? Are you a team member looking for more support from your functional manager as you work on projects? This week, Jay Christensen joins Pete Wright to take on both of these issues and give you the strategies you’ll need to solve a tricky political puzzle.

Ask Cadence: Ep 64 - Finding Support from Functional Managers

Ask Cadence: Ep 63 – No Steering Committee

Cadence — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 16:00:29 +0000

It’s one of the most common things we see on troubled projects, and sometimes the trickiest to navigate: No sponsor or steering committee supporting your projects. This week, Jay Christensen joins Pete Wright to dive into the issues that lead to this on your projects, and how you can find the support you need to get your projects back on track.

Ask Cadence: Ep 63 - No Steering Committee

Ask Cadence: Ep 62 – Managing Time on Critical Overlapping projects

Cadence — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:00:04 +0000

The problem card this week says it all: “Three project teams working on mandatory compliance projects to 18 countries, all three high priorities. Tasks from all three due all the time. How do I manage projects and priorities across overlapping critical projects?” It’s a question for all over-worked project people, and John Patton and Jay Christensen join Pete Wright to tackle it on the show.

Ask Cadence: Ep 62 - Managing Time on Critical Overlapping projects

Ask Cadence: Ep 61 – Too Many External Influences on the Project

Cadence — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 16:00:02 +0000

It may seem like stakeholder meddling, but external influences competing for attention on your project can be a symptom of a much larger problem. This week, John Patton and Jay Christensen help you focus on the lifecycle, using a few key tactics to ensure all your project stakeholders are working with you to keep the project focused — not distracting you from getting your project work done.

Ask Cadence: Ep 61 - Too Many External Influences on the Project

Ask Cadence: Ep 60 – The Supplier Can’t Deliver

Cadence — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 16:00:27 +0000

Any number of challenges can slow a supplier delivering a complex product on your project. From engineering challenges to methodological roadblocks, it’s your job as project manager to keep resources flowing into the project smoothly. This week, John Patton and Jay Christensen dissect this issue and give you a clear process to help keep your external suppliers on track.

Ask Cadence: Ep 60 - The Supplier Can't Deliver

Ask Cadence: Ep 59 – The Project is Off to a Slow Start

Cadence — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 16:00:06 +0000

From the problem cards this week, “The project is off to a slow start — how do we gain traction and get this project moving?” Turns out, it’s all a matter of focus on the life-cycle. This week, John Patton and Jay Christensen take to this issue with Pete Wright and give you a path to a solution that will help you get your project started on the right footing.

Ask Cadence: Ep 59 - The Project is Off to a Slow Start

Ask Cadence: Ep 58 – Webinar Preview: Overview of Agile with Jay Christensen

Cadence — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 16:00:46 +0000

Thinking about Agile and how it might help your development projects? Looking for more detail on how the Agile approach maps to the Cadence Methodology? Coming in August, Cadence’s Jay Christensen will be delivering a one-hour webinar dealing with the detail of Agile development with the Cadence Methodology. In today’s show, Jay gives us a preview of his research and teaches us where misunderstanding in the Agile process can lead to poor implementation and sub-par results.

Ask Cadence: Ep 58 - Webinar Preview: Overview of Agile with Jay Christensen

Ask Cadence: Ep 57 – Positioning Yourself for a Future in Project Management

Cadence — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 07:17:52 +0000

If you’re facing an abrupt career change, you have a wide road before you. You’ve crafted your resume. You’ve done the networking. But have you really positioned yourself to be the perfect candidate for that perfect project management job? This week on the show, Jay Christensen and Wil Mercer join host Pete Wright to talk about how to develop sharp skills and jumpstart your work in project management.

Ask Cadence: Ep 57 - Positioning Yourself for a Future in Project Management

Ask Cadence: Ep 56 – Weather the Project Economy

Cadence — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 07:17:15 +0000

If your teams have suffered as a result of layoffs or reorganizations, you’re weathering the project economy. If you are juggling scope changes and resource reallocation, you’re weathering the project economy. If you are faced with delivering difficult news more often than results, you’re weathering the project economy. This week, join Jay Christensen, Wil Mercer, and Pete Wright as they discuss the issues facing today’s teams and give you strategies to help you weather the project economy.

Ask Cadence: Ep 56 - Weather the Project Economy

Ask Cadence: Ep 55 – What is Agile PM and how does it map to Cadence?

Cadence — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 07:16:52 +0000

We have been getting this question with great frequency: what is this Agile thing, and how does it map to the Cadence project management methodology? As it happens, Agile maps cleanly to the Cadence Methodology and — if implemented appropriately — can yield benefits on certain projects. Listing to Jay Christensen and Wil Mercer discuss this issue on this week’s show.

Ask Cadence: Ep 55 - What is Agile PM and how does it map to Cadence?

Ask Cadence: Ep 54 – Surviving the PMP Exam

Cadence — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 07:16:23 +0000

Passing the PMP exam and earning the coveted certification that results is becoming increasingly important for project management practitioners. In celebration of our own Wil Mercer’s newly minted PMP, we thought it appropriate to sit down and ask about the process and share some tips and tricks for studying for — and passing — this exam.

Ask Cadence: Ep 54 - Surviving the PMP Exam

Ask Cadence: Ep 53 – PMI Global Congress EMEA 2009 Recap

Cadence — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 07:15:47 +0000

We welcome John Patton back to US shores with a deep discussion on his experiences and learnings at the recent PMI Global Congress EMEA. If you were unable to make it, tune in and get the highlights with Ask Cadence!

Ask Cadence: Ep 53 - PMI Global Congress EMEA 2009 Recap

Ask Cadence: Ep 52 – Time, Barriers, and Implementation Plan

Cadence — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 07:15:19 +0000

Wrapping up our discussion on implementing a project management methodology in your organization, this week John Patton and Scott Lissit join host Pete Wright for a final discussion on just what it takes to get the job done. How long will it take? What barriers will you encounter in the process? How to you create and manage a sound implementation plan which leads to success and adoption by the organization?

Ask Cadence: Ep 52 - Time, Barriers, and Implementation Plan

Ask Cadence: Ep 51 – Levels of Practice & the PMO

Cadence — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 07:15:00 +0000

If you’re considering implementing a project management methodology, it is important to know where you stand against the standard set by the Project Management Institute. This week, John Patton and Scott Lissit join host Pete Wright to provide a framework around what it takes not only to implement a methodology, but to create a path for governance in the organization that will provide for long-term growth in institutional excellence in the process.

Ask Cadence: Ep 51 - Levels of Practice & the PMO

Ask Cadence: Ep 50 – How do you deal with team members that are project blockers? Part 2

Cadence — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 07:14:27 +0000

Part 2: Every team has them. They may be well-intentioned, but for some reason or another, they’re blocking progress on your project. Whether they are raising inappropriate questions in your status meetings or just refusing to get their work done, you have to find some way to deal with them to avoid losing control of the project. This week, John Patton and Scott Lissit join host Pete Wright to provide the tools and techniques you’ll need to keep your project moving full steam ahead.

Ask Cadence: Ep 50 - How do you deal with team members that are project blockers? Part 2

Ask Cadence: Ep 49 – How do you deal with team members that are project blockers? Part 1

Cadence — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 07:14:08 +0000

Every team has them. They may be well-intentioned, but for some reason or another, they’re blocking progress on your project. Whether they are raising inappropriate questions in your status meetings or just refusing to get their work done, you have to find some way to deal with them to avoid losing control of the project. This week, John Patton and Scott Lissit join host Pete Wright to provide the tools and techniques you’ll need to keep your project moving full steam ahead.

Ask Cadence: Ep 49 - How do you deal with team members that are project blockers? Part 1

Ask Cadence: Ep 48 – Tools & Project Control, Part 2

Cadence — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 07:13:39 +0000

Part 2: What information do you need as a project manager flowing into your operation in order to know what’s happening on the project, and how to make corrective action as appropriate? It’s easy to get overwhelmed with project data — this week, John Patton and Scott Lissit join host Pete Wright to help you find strategies for managing project information to stay in control and not become over-burdened.

Ask Cadence: Ep 48 - Tools & Project Control, Part 2

Ask Cadence: Ep 47 – Tools & Project Control, Part 1

Cadence — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 07:13:15 +0000

What information do you need as a project manager flowing into your operation in order to know what’s happening on the project, and how to make corrective action as appropriate? It’s easy to get overwhelmed with project data — this week, John Patton and Scott Lissit join host Pete Wright to help you find strategies for managing project information to stay in control and not become over-burdened.

Ask Cadence: Ep 47 - Tools & Project Control, Part 1

Ask Cadence: Ep 46 – Defining Roles and a Success Story

Cadence — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 07:12:46 +0000

There are very few key roles to be filled in even the most complex project environment, but each of them is critical to successful implementation. From project manager to technical leader to sponsors and more, each serves to ensure the success of the team members delivering on their project objectives. This week, John Patton and Scott Lissit join host Pete Wright to define these key roles and give strategies for using each to its highest potential.

Ask Cadence: Ep 46 - Defining Roles and a Success Story

Ask Cadence: Ep 45 – The Minimum Elements of a Project Management Methodology

Cadence — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 07:12:22 +0000

This week, John Patton and Scott Lissit join host Pete Wright to outline the key elements of a methodology implementation for project management, from an adaptable life cycle approach to strategic steering and project prioritization.

Ask Cadence: Ep 45 - The Minimum Elements of a Project Management Methodology

Ask Cadence: Ep 44 – Things to Consider when Implementing a Project Management Methodology

Cadence — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 07:11:56 +0000

There is no perfect way to implement a project management methodology. This week, John Patton and Scott Lissit join host Pete Wright as they unravel the complexities of project methodology implementation and outlining the best practices that define successful companies in their journey toward project management maturity.

Ask Cadence: Ep 44 - Things to Consider when Implementing a Project Management Methodology

Ask Cadence: Ep 43 – Implementing a Project Management Methodology in Organizations

Cadence — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 07:11:32 +0000

While a “Standard” tells you what to do, a “Methodology” tells you how to do it. So says John Patton and Scott Lissit, who join host Pete Wright today to work through the issues, strategies and fears of taking on a project management methodology in organizations. This is part 1 of a series on the importance of flexible, adaptable structure in project management, no matter how complex the project environment.

Ask Cadence: Ep 43 - Implementing a Project Management Methodology in Organizations

Ask Cadence: Ep 42 – The "What If" Show

Cadence — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 07:11:04 +0000

What if your projects are affected by the recession? What if your team is broken up, reassigned, or restructured? What if you’re asked to make cuts to budget or redefine deliverables? This week, John Patton and Scott Lissit join host Pete Wright as they provide structure around project managers in the midsts of market shake-up.

Ask Cadence: Ep 42 - The "What If" Show

Ask Cadence: Ep 41 – Do You Need Project Management in a Recession?

Cadence — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 07:10:31 +0000

When the economy turns sour, it is easy to let fundamentals slip. When you find you are in danger of making reactionary decisions in place of strategic ones, it is critical that you step back, evaluate, and review the overall state of the business. This week, John Patton and Scott Lissit join host Pete Wright to review the importance of project management in a recession, and the role of smart portfolio management and prioritization in strategic decision making.

Ask Cadence: Ep 41 - Do You Need Project Management in a Recession?

Ask Cadence: Ep 40 – Managing Smart Vendor Relationships

Cadence — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 07:10:10 +0000

What do you do when you’re working on a project and your vendors are behind, unresponsive, or incompetent? This week, John Patton and Scott Lissit will show you how to take vendors to task when appropriate, manage them smartly, and target a mutually beneficial relationship.

Ask Cadence: Ep 40 - Managing Smart Vendor Relationships

Ask Cadence: Ep 39 – Project Management by Consensus Part 2

Cadence — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 07:09:43 +0000

When it’s time to make the tough decisions, does everyone have to agree? This week, we wrap up our two-part conversation between John Patton and Scott Lissit on project management by consensus, the perils and pitfalls of finding agreement on projects.

Ask Cadence: Ep 39 - Project Management by Consensus Part 2

Ask Cadence: Ep 38 – Project Management by Consensus Part 1

Cadence — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 07:09:08 +0000

When it’s time to make the tough decisions, does everyone have to agree? This week, we begin our two-part conversation between John Patton and Scott Lissit on project management by consensus, the perils and pitfalls of finding agreement on projects.

Ask Cadence: Ep 38 - Project Management by Consensus Part 1

Ask Cadence: Ep 37 – Porting Project Management Part 2

Cadence — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 07:08:37 +0000

This week, a listener email: “I have now moved on to a new company, a global bank in Europe. I intend to continue using the cadence methodology and would like to introduce it to the Bank. Do you have any advice on how I can pick up new projects quickly while instilling a sense of trust with my new project team?” It turns out it’s a bigger question than a single episode can answer. This week we offer part 2 of our discussion on porting project management from one company to another with John Patton and Scott Lissit.

Ask Cadence: Ep 37 - Porting Project Management Part 2

Ask Cadence: Ep 36 – Porting Project Management Part 1

Cadence — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 07:07:01 +0000

This week, a listener email: “I have now moved on to a new company, a global bank in Europe. I intend to continue using the cadence methodology and would like to introduce it to the Bank. Do you have any advice on how I can pick up new projects quickly while instilling a sense of trust with my new project team?” It turns out it’s a bigger question than a single episode can answer. This week we offer part 1 of our discussion on porting project management from one company to another with John Patton and Scott Lissit.

Ask Cadence: Ep 36 - Porting Project Management Part 1

Ask Cadence: Ep 35 – Seeding Project Management in Project Resistant Teams

Cadence — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 16:00:50 +0000

You’re the lone project manager in your group. Your organization is resistant to change. How lead the charge for project management as a key success factor in your group without alienating people creating ill will toward project structure? This week, John Patton and Scott Lissit cover politics, tools, and strategies for helping you move your organization up the project management maturity model.

Ask Cadence: Ep 35 - Seeding Project Management in Project Resistant Teams

Ask Cadence: Ep 34 – Smart Portfolio Management in Difficult Times

Cadence — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 16:00:34 +0000

Executives have to manage the portfolio of projects across the organization in spite of staffing changes, potential layoffs, operations scaling and other complicated market conditions. The decisions they make about projects and programs inside the organization will have a ripple effect with broad reach. Join John Patton and Scott Lissit this week as they cover the issues that come with increased demands, and give you suggestions to make the right portfolio decisions and deliver results.

Ask Cadence: Ep 34 - Smart Portfolio Management in Difficult Times

Ask Cadence: Ep 33 – Brute Intelligence

Cadence — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 07:00:37 +0000

Companies are being driven to take on projects with fixed due dates in spite of having to complete engineering development tasks which they have never attempted before. What are the costs of implementing your project while your engineering team is struggling to invent? Join John Patton and Scott Lissit this week as they cover the issues that come with these increased demands, and give you suggestions to streamline project management and deliver results.

Ask Cadence: Ep 33 - Brute Intelligence

Ask Cadence: Ep 32 – Election 2008: The Project of a Major Political Campaign

Cadence — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:30:05 +0000

The election for the 44th president of the United States of America has reset the bar against which campaigns will be measured. From unprecedented volunteerism to savvy strategy, the 2008 campaign season offers telling lessons in progressive project management. On today’s show, join Cadence CEO John Patton and Scott Lissit as they draw their own project conclusions as the polls, and this season, draws to its close.

Ask Cadence: Ep 32 - Election 2008: The Project of a Major Political Campaign

Ask Cadence: Ep 31 – When Team Members Leave Your Project

Cadence — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 02:16:11 +0000

If you run large projects, you have seen team members come and go. But what do you do to keep your project moving forward while you transition to a new team member who might not have all the project background? This week, John Patton and Wil Mercer give you key on-boarding strategies to get new team members performing quickly.

Ask Cadence: Ep 31 - When Team Members Leave Your Project

Ask Cadence: Ep 30 – When Team Members Won’t Commit

Cadence — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 06:58:53 +0000

In spite of your best efforts, you have a team member who refuses to commit to their tasks. How do you get to the bottom of the problem diplomatically, while keeping your project moving forward on schedule? This week, John Patton and Wil Mercer sit down to give you proven strategies to keep communication flowing, and your project on schedule.

Ask Cadence: Ep 30 - When Team Members Won't Commit

Ask Cadence: Ep 29 – Solving the Unsolvable Technical Problem

Cadence — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 15:00:38 +0000

You are running into a mass production deadline on a significant project, but there’s a non-trivial technical problem that your team still hasn’t solved. What do you do with your project in this state of jeopardy? This week, John Patton and Wil Mercer sit down to tackle this very real problem on Ask Cadence, episode 29.

Ask Cadence: Ep 29 - Solving the Unsolvable Technical Problem

Ask Cadence: Ep 28 – Dealing with Power Struggles

Cadence — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 15:00:17 +0000

When two key executives are locked in a power struggle that affects your project, how can you resolve the issue and keep your project on track? This week, Cadence CEO John Patton and seminar leader Wil Mercer discuss the potential pitfalls, and give a few key lessons to help deflate tensions, improve communication, and allow you and your team to get back to work.

Ask Cadence: Ep 28 - Dealing with Power Struggles

Ask Cadence: Ep 27 – The Importance of OPM3

Cadence — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 02:17:30 +0000

Continuing our discussion on the importance of OPM3 to modern project management, we sit down with John Patton and Scott Lissit of Cadence Management Corporation to discuss how companies can get started with OPM3, and where the new standard will have the most impact on project, program, and portfolio management operations.

Ask Cadence: Ep 27 - The Importance of OPM3

Ask Cadence: Ep 26 – Introduction to OPM3 with John Patton

Cadence — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 16:00:08 +0000

This week, we sit down with John Patton for an introduction to OPM3. This new organizational benchmarking tool can be prove to be a daunting undertaking. Patton serves to clarify each component of the tool, and provides a discussion on the practical implications of getting started with OMP3.

Ask Cadence: Ep 26 - Introduction to OPM3 with John Patton

Ask Cadence: Ep 25 – Is Project Planning Just a Waste of Time?

Cadence — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 16:00:35 +0000

When the pressure is high it is easy to let the planning process slide in favor of diving in and getting the work done. But, at what cost? Cadence CEO John Patton and director of service delivery Scott Lissit discuss the risks of ignoring planning, and give a few key lessons and project sizing guidelines that will help reduce frustration with the appropriate level of work.

Ask Cadence: Ep 25 - Is Project Planning Just a Waste of Time?

Ask Cadence: Ep 24 – What do you do when people don’t know what to do?

Cadence — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 15:00:57 +0000

Planning isn’t easy. If you’re project is not starting well, it is most likely because you have been tripped up in the planning process. This week, Cadence CEO John Patton and director of service delivery Scott Lissit address a key Ask Cadence question: My team is lost. What do you do when your people don’t know what to do? Listen to the show this week and get a better understanding of why this happens to project managers, and suggestions on how to turn it around using simple tools to get your team aligned and on track to deliver results.

Ask Cadence: Ep 24 - What do you do when people don't know what to do?

Ask Cadence: Ep 23 – What do you do with an unrealistic objective?

Cadence — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 06:56:41 +0000

There are some things you simply cannot control. This week, Cadence CEO John Patton and Director of Service Delivery Scott Lissit address one of the most frustrating of these for project managers: What do you do when your sponsor hands you a project with an unrealistic objective? Listen to the show this week and get a better understanding of why this happens to project managers, and suggestions on how to turn it around so that you can deliver results.

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Ask Cadence: Ep 22 – Cadence International Methodology Update 2008

Cadence — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 06:56:09 +0000

This year marks 25 years that Cadence has been driving the field of formal project management. On this week’s show, we sit down with Cadence CEO John Patton and reflect on the business, and the event that shapes the Cadence impact around the globe: International Methodology Update.

Ask Cadence: Ep 22 - Cadence International Methodology Update 2008

Ask Cadence: Ep 21 – Active and Passive Metrics for Measuring Project Success

Cadence — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 06:55:35 +0000

Once you have your project management system in place, how do you measure deeper results of project success beyond major milestones? This week, Rob Bremmer and guest Dr. Sean Harry from Career Management Solutions join the round table to discuss active and passive metrics for managing project success.

Ask Cadence: Ep 21 - Active and Passive Metrics for Measuring Project Success

Ask Cadence: Ep 20 – Keeping your Project Management Skills Sharp

Cadence — Tue, 20 May 2008 06:55:01 +0000

Organizations dealing with cuts to their training budgets are suddenly forced to think creatively about getting teams the training they need to build results. This week, Rob Bremmer and guest Dr. Sean Harry from Career Management Solutions and ASTD join the round table to continue our series on finding the training you need in a volatile market.

Ask Cadence: Ep 20 - Keeping your Project Management Skills Sharp

Ask Cadence: Ep 19 – HR Pros: Creative Problem Solving for Training Teams (Special Guest Dr. Sean Harry)

Cadence — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 23:10:13 +0000

Ask Cadence: Ep 19 - HR Pros: Creative Problem Solving for Training Teams (Special Guest Dr. Sean Harry)

Ask Cadence: Ep 18 – When Training is Hard to Find

Cadence — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 06:53:11 +0000

What do you do when your organization is forced to trim training budgets? You get creative! This week, the regular team is joined by Dr. Sean Harry from Career Management Solutions to take on the importance of training even in a volatile market, the process of creating a skills inventory, and where to find resources to continue to learn even when you don’t have the budget to pay for it.

Ask Cadence: Ep 18 - When Training is Hard to Find

Ask Cadence: Ep 17 – Poor Visibility of Customer Project Planning

Cadence — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 23:06:44 +0000

When working with customer-based extended teams, how do you remain responsive and reactive when you don’t have visibility of customer project planning efforts? This week, John Patton and Connie Plowman take on this issue and give advice on how teams can get control of broad teams through communication and collaboration.

Ask Cadence: Ep 17 - Poor Visibility of Customer Project Planning

Ask Cadence: Ep 16 – How do you plan and execute simultaneously?

Cadence — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 23:04:58 +0000

The problem card this week asks for help when a team is handed a new project and a timeline for delivery that most would feel is too tight to plan. John Patton and Connie Plowman work through the implications for the team — and for you as project manager — and show just how critical the planning function is, even when planning time appears to be minimal.

Ask Cadence: Ep 16 - How do you plan and execute simultaneously?

Ask Cadence: Ep 15 – Team Member Evasion

Cadence — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 22:55:15 +0000

The problem card this week asks for help when a team member evades the work of the project and turns in sloppy work to the team. There are a number of reasons this might be happening on your projects, and this week John Patton and Connie Plowman work through the implications for the team — and for you as project manager — and outline a few simple strategies to address them.

Ask Cadence: Ep 15 - Team Member Evasion

Ask Cadence: Ep 14 – The Fast-Growing Team

Cadence — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 22:51:50 +0000

This week, how do you drive for accurate and efficient communication when your department or operating team is growing faster than work can be delegated? This week, John Patton and Connie Plowman take on the problem of dynamic operational teams in trouble, and provide insight in how managers can keep the right people involved and informed while being more effective leaders.

Ask Cadence: Ep 14 - The Fast-Growing Team

Ask Cadence: Ep 13 – Extra-Team Enthusiasm

Cadence — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 22:50:44 +0000

When team members jump into your project uninvited, do you have an opportunity to leverage many hands into light work, or a politically charged vehicle for self-promotion? Join Cadence president John Patton and COO Connie Plowman on Ask Cadence this week and gain insights into managing extra-team enthusiasm appropriately and professionally to get the job done.

Ask Cadence: Ep 13 - Extra-Team Enthusiasm

Ask Cadence: Ep 12 – Operations v. Projects

Cadence — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 22:49:12 +0000

When operations and project collide in day-to-day work-life, it’s often a complicated juggling act determining where staff attention should be directed. This week, Cadence CEO John Patton and COO Connie Plowman share their expertise in managing the juncture between projects and operations and the benefits of workload planning.

Ask Cadence: Ep 12 - Operations v. Projects

Episode Supplement: This spreadsheet is the Workload Planning template referred to in Ask Cadence Episode 12. Download all the Cadence supplemental templates from cadencemc.com.

Ask Cadence: Ep 11 – Managing Up

Cadence — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 22:44:52 +0000

When a key manager holds the keys to your project schedule, how do you deliver results without creating a politically charged situation around your project? Join Cadence president John Patton and COO Connie Plowman on Ask Cadence this week and gain insights on “managing up” appropriately and professionally to get the job done.

Ask Cadence: Ep 11 - Managing Up

Ask Cadence: Ep 10 – Customer Who?

Cadence — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 06:48:51 +0000

On this week’s show, Jay Christensen and Rob Bremmer discuss the challenges that come to project managers who fail to take the time and initiative to know and understand their customer. Whether from confusion within sponsorship ranks in the organization or project manager planning in a vacuum, the results are the same: misunderstanding of the customer causes misunderstanding of the project.

Ask Cadence: Ep 10 - Customer Who?

Ask Cadence: Ep 09 – Vacuum Planning

Cadence — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 06:47:52 +0000

On this week’s show, Jay Christensen and Rob Bremmer discuss the challenges that come to project managers who plan their projects without any input from the team. Whether it comes from a subconscious need to be a star, or a lack of organization of resources early in the project, this problem can be disastrous to long-term commitment to project activity. Listen now for strategies to address this problem proactively and discover who ultimately owns this problem to deliver results on your critical projects.

Ask Cadence: Ep 09 - Vacuum Planning

Ask Cadence: Ep 08 – Dragging Feet

Cadence — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 06:47:08 +0000

On this week’s show, Jay Christensen and Rob Bremmer discuss the challenges that come with team members who don’t fully support your project. Do they have a full understanding of the project objective? Do they understand the potential impact of the project on the organization? Listen now for strategies to address these team members proactively to ensure they are delivering at their best on your most critical projects.

Ask Cadence: Ep 08 - Dragging Feet

Ask Cadence: Ep 07 – The Skill Gap

Cadence — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 06:46:07 +0000

With more projects than people in today’s project environment, organizations are often forced to assign team members to project teams who are not equipped with the skills required to contribute most effectively. This skill gap can have a severe negative impact on project deliverables and put project managers in a difficult position when working to get their projects complete. On this week’s show, Jay Christensen and Rob Bremmer address key organizational symptoms that can lead to an environment in which the skill gap occurs, and how to address these symptoms proactively to ensure the right team members are delivering at their best on the most critical projects.

Ask Cadence: Ep 07 - The Skill Gap

Ask Cadence: Ep 06 – Last Minute Scope Change

Cadence — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 06:45:16 +0000

This week, our Cadence graduate writes, “Complete requirements for the project are received before the project is due to be complete.” Without complete organizational understanding and sponsor/customer agreement, this project problem comes up time and again. Experts Jay Christensen and Rob Bremmer walk through the nature of the problem and how you can put a keen eye on resolution by getting back to basics, holding the reins of communication tightly, while addressing the needs of the team. Listen to this week’s Ask Cadence for more on getting your teams talking, and thanks to those who have written in with this challenge!

Ask Cadence: Ep 06 - Last Minute Scope Change

Ask Cadence: Ep 05 – Communication

Cadence — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 06:44:21 +0000

This week, our Cadence graduate writes, “communication is a key problem on our projects.” In that simple statement, she sums up the baggage that comes with all projects in some form or another. Without a proper framework, inexperienced teams can become mired in process, and cause the project to suffer. Experts Jay Christensen and Scott Lisset walk through the nature of the problem and how you can put a keen eye on resolution by getting back to basics, holding the reins of communication tightly, while addressing the needs of the team. Listen to this week’s Ask Cadence for more on getting your teams talking, and thanks to those who have written in with this challenge!

Ask Cadence: Ep 05 - Communication

Ask Cadence: Ep 04 – Scope Creep

Cadence — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 06:43:08 +0000

Keeping a keen eye on scope is a key responsibility of every project manager. The ability to address any element that affects project performance risks triggering a cascade of changes to cost and schedule, that can have dangerous consequences to the project as a whole. Experts Jay Christensen and Scott Lisset walk through the nature of the problem and how you can put a keen eye on resolution by getting back to basics, holding the reins of scope tightly, while still listening to the core customer. Listen to this week’s Ask Cadence for more on getting your projects started right, and thanks to those who have written in with this challenge!

Ask Cadence: Ep 04 - Scope Creep

Ask Cadence: Ep 02 – Define scope right from the start

Cadence — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 06:42:07 +0000

A universal understanding of project scope is critical to overcoming confusion in project start-up. This week’s problem comes from a project manager dealing with just that; multiple sponsors and members of leadership competing for input into project scope. Experts Jay Christensen and Scott Lisset walk through the nature of the problem and how you can put a keen eye on resolution by getting back to basics and listening to your project customers. Listen to this week’s Ask Cadence for more on getting your projects started right!

Ask Cadence: Ep 02 - Define scope right from the start

Ask Cadence: PMI Portland Special – Randall Englund on Project Sponsorship

Cadence — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 06:41:25 +0000

PMI Portland dinner meeting attendees were treated to this rousing speech by Randall Englund, author of the book “Project Sponsorship: Achieving Management Commitment for Project Success”. Englund is introduced here by Cadence COO Connie Plowman. Englund will be joined by co-author Alfonso Bucero teaching their first seminar with Cadence, Project Sponsorship, in early November. Visit cadencemc.com for more information on that seminar.

Ask Cadence: PMI Portland Special - Randall Englund on Project Sponsorship

Ask Cadence: Ep 01 – Get the Right Skills on Project Teams

Cadence — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 06:40:31 +0000

This week we are thrilled to launch the inaugural episode of Ask Cadence!, tackling your gorilla project management problems, one week at a time.

This week, Scott Lisset and Jay Christensen take on the perennial problem: lack of key skills on the project team. What can you do when your defined tasks don’t match the skills of your team? Listen to this episode for strategies to get your project needs met and keep your project moving!

Ask Cadence: Ep 01 - Get the Right Skills on Project Teams