What role should your client play in a project implementation?In my experience, I’ve discovered that clients are increasingly not only interested in being involved in the details, but they demand it. I believe a significant factor in this trend is the rise in popularity of web-based social networking applications. A precedent has been set by these applications in which active involvement in the development process is not only encouraged – it’s a core requirement for success.
Borne out of my experience is something I’ve dubbed the “client collaboration continuum.”
At one end of the scale is the completely hands off “traditional” client whose participation is limited to reviewing, and perhaps commenting on, the periodic formal reports provided by the PM. At the other is a highly engaged client who, in effect, becomes a pseudo-member of the project team and actively participates in many aspects of the effort, ranging from initial planning to testing to the final acceptance.
As a project manager, determining where on the continuum your client is most comfortable early in the process is extremely important. Take a moment and ask yourself the following simple questions:
- Is the client personally vested in the success of the project?
- Does the overall project budget represent a significant investment for the client?
- Does your client have experience using web-based social networking applications? (e.g. Twitter, YouTube, Flickr, etc.)
The more questions you can answer “yes” to the more likely your client will want to take an active, hands-on role in the project. Taking this into account and adjusting your approach to suit their needs can make a dramatic difference in the perceived success or failure of your effort.
