Time - Long Time - Slow Time

Time is relative. At times a distant relative that doesn't write or call.

I've had one of my older insights brought back into focus lately and this concerns how long it takes to get things done. My former rule of thumb was to take an estimate from someone else and multiply times three to give myself a more accurate estimate of when to expect the final result. My more recent experience with several projects and proposals has only confirmed this "times three" notion.

My former analysis of this was that people didn't consider all the factors they needed to before they made their estimates. They were either unaware of what was needed to be considered or they underestimated the level of effort required to get a step accomplished.

My current thinking is a little different. While some of what I thought is mostly still valid, I also understand that there are other factors that also need to be considered, and this relates back to my previous blog about matixed difficulties.

What seems to be a primary problem in completing tasks within stated time lines, are the conflicting demands upon the time and priorities of the person tasked to do the work.

My new focus is to ask how I can help others work through the conflicting priorities they face. In simple words - How can I move my request up the list of priorities they are managing? And if I can't help here, I need to ask myself - What do I need to do to manage the risk of my request running late?

New Year, New Record

Hello,

This year I waited until August for my first post. Beating last year's July first post; which was by coincidence also my last post of the year.

I make no promises for this year.

I have been working with many great people this year from various firms. There continue to be similarities among the firms. Chief of these is the difficulties inherent in working within a highly matrixed organization - which seems to be the norm and not the exception. I have written a paper that addresses the need to influence those around you and will make this available if you like. I have also been focusing much of my coaching around this topic.

The next most popular theme pertains to feedback. How and when to give it and why. Again, I have a paper that has gotten good feedback from those who have read and tried the tips offered. Let me know if you wish a copy.