Author: Mike Urgo
One of the most fun and engaging things about working in business and technology is the fast-paced environment.
One of the challenging things about working in business and technology is the fast-paced environment.
Both statements are true. However, we can make our jobs less challenging by taking the time to “measure twice” or ten times if you can. The real challenge is gaining buy in to spend the time measuring. You may be thinking: What the hell are you talking about?
When we talk about measuring in the conventional sense, all you are really getting is data.
Another popular saying that’s more prevalent in business and technology is “data-driven decision making”.
The question here is: how good is your data?
Have you only measured once?
From a project perspective, how often has a request gone out to the technology team for a level of effort (LOE) and once received, the request is to have it done quicker.
As leaders we need to do two things:
- Ask for and analyze the data behind an LOE
- Start measuring the accuracy of the LOEs
An LOE should not be a statement from a team member like: “oh yea, that will take us 90 days”. That’s not an LOE, that’s someone either over promising or under promising based on their how that individual operates. A true LOE should include a breakdown of high-level milestones in a timeline showing what and how the work is going to get done and when. This can give leaders something tangible to challenge and drive a productive conversation.
Relevant teams should then start measuring these LOEs for accuracy. This will not only help drive the accuracy of LOEs moving forward, but also start to create trust and credibility with leadership. It’s important to track both the original LOE provided by the team as well as the final LOE or timeline agreed upon for the effort. This can also help guide leadership on whether their expectations are valid.
Do you need help managing your LOE process or guidance on how to better plan your work?
Schedule a call to see how I can help you or perhaps you are an organization that is a good fit for my next full-time career move.
The ability to take the time to understand your organization, your people, your processes, and translate to technological solutions is what makes Intellectual Nebula so effective!
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