When I began my career in the Further Education sector over a decade ago, I never imagined how transformative the journey would be — not only for myself but for the many learners I’ve had the privilege of supporting along the way. Having started without formal qualifications, my path to becoming an Internal Quality Assurer (IQA) is a testament to the power of apprenticeships and lifelong learning.
A Career Highlight: Ofsted Recognition
One of the proudest moments in my career came when I was observed by Ofsted and graded as ‘GOOD’ for my quality assurance work. This recognition was a testament to the dedication I put into maintaining high standards and fostering impactful learning environments. It’s a highlight that continues to inspire my work today, now in my role at Projecting Success, where I apply these same principles to support the development of apprentices.
A Holistic Understanding of Further Education
Throughout my career, I’ve held a variety of roles within Further Education, giving me a comprehensive understanding of the field. These experiences allow me to see the bigger picture when it comes to quality assurance, understanding both the challenges and opportunities that come with maintaining high standards. At Projecting Success, my goal is to ensure that we not only meet but exceed the expectations set for us — whether by regulatory bodies, awarding organisations, or our apprentices.
The Importance of Quality Assurance
Quality assurance is vital in any business, but in education, it takes on an even greater significance. It’s not just about ticking boxes or meeting compliance requirements; it’s about ensuring that every learner has access to the highest quality education and training. At Projecting Success, this means maintaining consistency, driving development, and fostering collaboration both internally and externally.
Key Responsibilities and Impact
My role as an IQA is diverse and dynamic. Some of my key responsibilities include:
- Ensuring our teaching is consistently outstanding.
- Standardising processes to ensure uniformity across the board.
- Ensuring compliance with various regulations.
- Supporting internal teams to foster growth and development.
- Linking internal processes for seamless collaboration.
- Conducting due diligence, risk audits, and quality checks.
- Collaborating with external partners, including End-Point Assessment organisations and regulatory bodies.
Ultimately, everything I do is aimed at providing our apprentices with the best possible learning journey while continuously improving our processes.
Looking Ahead
As I continue my journey at Projecting Success, I remain passionate about making a positive impact on education, project management, and data analysis. Apprenticeships have played a pivotal role in shaping my own career, and I’m dedicated to ensuring they do the same for our learners. With continuous improvement at the heart of everything we do, I’m excited to see how we can push the boundaries of what’s possible in education and training.
By maintaining high standards and fostering an environment of growth, we can ensure that our apprentices not only succeed but thrive in their careers, just as I have in mine.
To learn more about Terri's work and her contributions to quality assurance at Projecting Success, feel free to reach out to her directly at Terrim@projectingsuccess.co.uk. She’ll be happy to share her insights and experiences.
At Projecting Success, we believe in the power of collaboration, innovation, and the sharing of knowledge to drive transformation in project management. As we gear up for Project:Hack 23 in Derby, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to our incredible sponsors who have made this event possible: the Major Projects Association (MPA), the Association for Project Management (APM), and Rolls-Royce for their invaluable support.
Major Projects Association (MPA)
The MPA has long been a leader in promoting best practices, insights, and innovations in the delivery of major projects across the UK. Their commitment to fostering a community of learning, development, and sharing aligns perfectly with the ethos of Project
By supporting this event, the MPA is helping to bring together professionals, experts, and innovators who are passionate about transforming the way we approach project management through data, AI, and cutting-edge technology.
Association for Project Management (APM)
The APM are the only chartered membership organisation for the project profession and is the largest professional body for project management in the UK, dedicated to developing and promoting project and program management excellence. Their support for Project:Hack 23 underscores their commitment to driving the profession forward, empowering project managers with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an increasingly complex and digital world. The APM's sponsorship helps ensure that Project:Hack 23 is a platform where professionals can explore the latest trends, tools, and methodologies to tackle real-world project challenges.
Rolls-Royce – Our Event Host
We are thrilled to be hosting Project:Hack 23 at the Rolls-Royce Learning and Development Centre in Derby. Rolls-Royce has long been at the forefront of innovation, engineering, and excellence in project management. Their generous support in hosting this event provides the perfect backdrop for exploring the intersection of data, AI, and project management. The Rolls-Royce team has been instrumental in ensuring that our attendees will have an unforgettable experience, from the informative sessions to the exclusive hack tour, and of course, the networking opportunities during our Executive Dinner.
Project:Hack 23 – Driving Innovation in Project Management
With the support of our sponsors, Project:Hack 23 is set to be a truly impactful event, bringing together project professionals, data experts, and technologists to explore how data and AI can unlock new efficiencies and insights in project delivery. The event will showcase how technology is reshaping project management, with hands-on activities, expert talks, and networking opportunities designed to foster collaboration and innovation.
One-Day Course 9am-5pm: Tailored for Senior Leaders
Next Dates:
20 November, 2024
Location: Victory Services Club, London
Cost: The course costs £595 per delegate
There is a further 25% discount if you have a delegate on our PDA apprenticeship.
Food and Refreshments: Provided Throughout the Day
Taught by Industry Experts: Gain Insights from Leading Professionals
A one-day no-waffle tour of the world of AI and data analytics, to demystify what it is, how it can be applied to projects to transform project performance, and the critical actions senior leaders must take to make it happen.
Who this course is for
“In any given moment, we have two options: to step forward into growth or step back into safety” Abraham Maslow
Senior leaders have been telling us they are swamped with offers of help to improve their project performance through using the new oil of business (data and AI). They also tell us they find the jargon baffling and that it is different to the language of projects, it can sound far too like science fiction, the solutions being pitched may involve buying expensive licenses for yet another project management tool or add-on, there is a worry that it requires investment in supercomputers or there is rightly a cautiousness regarding data and cyber security. Senior leaders tell us they fear missing out, of not taking the opportunity to use the power of AI and data analytics to tackle the stubborn issues affecting project performance. But as luring as OpenAI’s ChatGPT and other Generative AI platforms are, they are equally concerned about reputational risk or unintended consequences of using it. It’s right dilemma.
If that sounds like you, then this is the course that will help you cut through the hype to gain clarity about what’s possible right now, what will very soon be upon us and what you can do. This course is specifically designed for senior leaders with the following remits:
· Head of PMO or Head of Centre of Excellence
· Head of projects or Head of Profession
· Head of associated functions, e.g. assurance, risk
· Portfolio director/manager or project/programme director of a major project
Join like-minded people who have the same curiosity and desire to be at the forefront of transforming the profession.
What you will learn
You will learn how to tackle some of the following key challenges:
· How to differentiate the hype from reality. What is project data analytics and AI, with examples?
· What does this mean for the project delivery function and future roles? How should teams prepare?
· What is the state of the market?
· Who owns the data, rights of access, how do we contract for it?
· How do we drive up data quality? How can we trust it?
· How do we get the massive data sets that we need to train the AI models? Can we do it with just our own data or do we need to pool data and if so, how?
· How do we develop a strategy, roadmap and implementation plan? How do we take people with us when it could mean a fundamental change to their job or role?
What you will get
The course is limited to 20 attendees as it is delivered in a participative hands-on workshop format. You will be provided with a workbook that will help with your sense-making of the possibilities of AI and Data Analytics, the readiness of your organisations to use it and the steps you can take to fully exploit it. You will leave with an outline action plan specifically for your context, whether that is applying it to your project, to your function or your enterprise as a whole.
Agenda
The one-day course starts at 09:00 and finishes at 16:45 followed by networking.
· Module 1 – Objectives and introductions
· Module 2 - Demystifying AI and data analytics
· Module 3 - Opportunities to transform project delivery
· Module 4 - It’s all about the data
· Module 5 – What about tools/systems
· Module 6 – AI and data literacy/skills
· Module 7 – Making it reality
· Module 8 – Summary & Networking
Hosts
The Senior Leaders AI Playbook course is hosted by Andy Murray, the executive director of the Major Projects Association and renowned author of the IPA’s project routemap, P3M3 maturity model and PRINCE2 (among others). Andy is joined by co-host Martin Paver, CEO of Projecting Success, the founder of the Project Data Analytics Task Force and often cited as one of the leading figures in driving the adoption of AI and data analytics by the project profession.
Each course includes a different guest expert speaker who will showcase an example of AI/Data Analytics being applied and their experience with it.
As the course is delivered in ‘workshop’ style we encourage all participants to contribute - you will connect others on a similar journey and have the opportunity to continue to work collegiately to exploit AI and data analytics. We can go faster together than alone.
Join us!
The tech and data industries are evolving rapidly, but one thing remains clear—there is a need for more diverse voices in the room. At Projecting Success, we’re excited to announce the launch of project:womxn, a new initiative dedicated to supporting and championing women in technology, data, and project delivery roles. Our mission is simple: to create an inclusive, supportive community where women can network, share experiences, and learn the skills needed to thrive in these fields.
Why project:Womxn?
Women continue to be underrepresented in technology and project management, making up less than 30% of the tech workforce globally and only a small percentage of project delivery leadership roles. The challenges range from limited access to role models and mentors to a lack of visible career pathways in data and digital transformation. With project:womxn, we aim to tackle these barriers head-on by providing a space for connection, skill-building, and career development.
We believe that by equipping more women with the skills and confidence to navigate the world of data, project management, and digital transformation, we’re not just bridging a gap—we’re building a stronger, more innovative future for everyone.
Join Us for Our First Networking Event on November 20th!
To kick off this initiative, we’re thrilled to invite you to our projectlaunch event on November 20th at The Oracle! This in-person gathering will bring together women in tech, data, project management, and delivery, as well as allies and industry leaders, to network, share stories, and learn from one another. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow your career, this event is designed to help you connect with a community that’s as passionate about the future of women in these fields as you are.
Date: November 20th
Location: The Oracle
Time: 6:30pm-8:30pm
Come meet like-minded professionals, hear from inspiring speakers, and be part of a movement that’s changing the face of tech, data, and project delivery!
Don’t Miss Our Webinar: AI Unlocked
In addition to our in-person event, we’re also hosting an AI Unlocked webinar to make data and AI more accessible for everyone, including those working in project and programme management. The world of AI can often feel complex and overwhelming, but we’re here to change that. This webinar is designed to demystify AI and provide practical insights into how these technologies can be leveraged by project, programme, and delivery professionals.
We believe AI isn’t just for data scientists—it’s for anyone who wants to unlock new ways of working smarter, not harder. Our goal is to empower attendees with the knowledge and tools they need to integrate AI into their roles, whether they are managing projects, delivering complex programmes, or optimising data strategies.
Date: 6th November
Time: 12:30-1:30
Registration: https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/6ca316e3-a914-4ab7-bfbf-c850ff7a118a@8dcc9478-13b7-4f15-8eb1-e5fa4e8ece6e
Creating a Community Where Everyone Can Thrive
With project:womxn, we want to make a lasting impact on the professional journeys of women in tech, data, project management, and project delivery by making AI and data skills accessible for everyone. This is just the beginning—we have so much more in store, from advanced workshops to exclusive networking events.
By bringing together diverse perspectives and voices, we’re building a community where everyone has the opportunity to succeed, grow, and make a real impact in project delivery and beyond. We hope to see you at our upcoming events and look forward to growing this initiative with you.
Get Involved!
If you’re interested in learning more about projector want to attend one of our events, reach out to us at enquiries@projectingsuccess.co.uk or follow us on LinkedIn for the latest updates. Together, we can create a future where women thrive in tech, data, and project delivery, and where AI and data skills are truly accessible to all.
We’re excited to announce that Rolls Royce will be setting one of the flagship challenges at our upcoming hackathon on October 21-22 in Derby! This event is shaping up to be a truly unique opportunity for professionals, students, and innovators to engage with real-world problems, collaborate, and showcase their skills.
The Challenge: Project Planners’ Struggles with Schedule Summarisation
Project planners often have to juggle complex schedules and provide high-level summaries for various stakeholders. With Rolls Royce’s challenge, participants will be diving into a common but crucial issue faced by planners: how to simplify and effectively communicate detailed project schedules without losing essential information. But why is summarising schedules such a critical task?
Here are three key reasons:
Stakeholder Integration
Project planners frequently need to integrate schedules from other teams, suppliers, or delivery partners. Summarising these inputs allows them to create a cohesive timeline that keeps everyone aligned.
Communication to Senior Stakeholders
Sometimes, providing a detailed breakdown of a schedule to senior stakeholders isn’t feasible. High-level summaries are essential for presenting key information succinctly, enabling informed decision-making.
Enhanced Project Understanding
Summarised schedules serve as powerful communication tools. They help the entire team understand project priorities and timelines, facilitating smoother project delivery without overwhelming team members with too much detail.
The Importance of Accurate Schedule Summarisation
Two things matter when summarising a schedule: ensuring it accurately reflects the detailed schedules from a sequencing and timing perspective and capturing the progress or performance of the detailed plan. Rolls Royce’s challenge invites you to propose solutions that tackle these pain points, bridging the gap between high-level reporting and detailed project management.
Why Should You Take Part?
This isn’t just another hackathon—it’s your chance to work on a real problem faced by one of the world’s leading engineering companies. Participants will have the opportunity to engage directly with Rolls Royce representatives, gain insights into the complexities of project management, and possibly see their solutions adopted in practice!
Submit Your Own Challenge
If you have a challenge that would inspire others or tackle a problem in your field, why not submit it? We’re always looking to broaden our range of challenges and welcome contributions that bring new perspectives to our events.
Future Events: Mark Your Calendars!
Can’t make it to this hackathon? Don’t worry—we have more events on the horizon! We’ll be holding major events in March and June next year, with more exciting challenges to come. Keep an eye on our website for updates, and don’t miss out on the chance to be part of something impactful.
Join Us and Make a Difference
Our hackathons are about more than just solving problems—they’re about building communities, sharing knowledge, and shaping the future of technology and project management. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a student, or simply curious, we encourage you to join us and see what you can achieve.
Sign up now and be part of an unforgettable experience!
Authored by: ran cheng
In 2022, as a third-year PhD student, I came across Project:Hack 14, an online event hosted by Projecting Success on Eventbrite. Being intermediate in Python at that time, I was looking for hackathon opportunities to enhance my coding skills beyond my PhD studies. I chose the challenge of 'topic modelling' to enhance the bid team workflow and was fortunate to win first place, receiving an Amazon voucher worth £3,000, which I used to purchase a standing desk, a 4K monitor, and a new iPad Pro with full bundles.
My Project:Hack Journey
After winning my first-ever hackathon, I attended the in-person Project Hack 15 and 17, teaming up with friends from Imperial, UCL, other universities, and project professionals we had never met before. We secured second place at Project Hack 15. Although we didn't win at Project Hack 17, we still learned a lot and enjoyed the hack challenges, learning new tech stacks by addressing the challenges and presenting the solutions.
pHD studies and beyond
After these hackathons, I gained significant experience in planning, building, and delivering data-driven projects. Most importantly, I gained confidence in tackling any hackathon challenge. By the end of 2022, I came across advertisements for Smartathon, a hackathon hosted by the Saudi Arabian government. Teaming up with three friends from Oxford and Cambridge, I successfully led them to win second place and a cash prize of £20,000 among 20,000 participants for delivering a complete end-to-end computer vision system for detecting potholes on national roads in Riyadh
After finishing my PhD study in 2023, the hackathon experience from 2022 led me to join Projecting Success as a machine learning developer, where I continue to build AI solutions for digital transformation for our clients.
upcoming hackathons
Inspired by Ran's Story? Join us for our upcoming hackathon events:
In-Person Hack: 21-22 October at Rolls Royce Derby
Hackathons are exhilarating bursts of creativity and collaboration, offering a playground for problem solvers, tech enthusiasts, and innovators. At Projecting Success, we believe in the power of these events to drive innovation and personal growth. Here are some compelling reasons why you should consider participating in our hackathons:
Skill Enhancement
Hackathons propel participants beyond their comfort zones. Whether you’re a seasoned coder or a curious beginner, you’ll acquire new skills. Projecting Success provides an environment where you can fine-tune your coding, design, and teamwork abilities. From rapid prototyping to debugging, every challenge contributes to your growth.
Networking Opportunities
Our hackathons attract a diverse crowd, like-minded individuals with whom you can collaborate, exchange ideas, and forge lasting connections. Who knows? Your next collaborator or mentor might be sitting across from you during a late-night coding sprint. We employed our very own Ran after meeting him on a hack!
Unleashing Creativity
Hackathons thrive on unconventional thinking. In our working lives, we can’t always explore using novel techniques against the status quo, but in a hackathon you’ll discover innovative solutions to complex problems. Whether it’s a novel app feature or an elegant algorithm, you’ll surprise yourself with what you create.
Real-World Problem Solving
Our hackathons often tackle real-world challenges. From sustainability to healthcare, you’ll grapple with issues that matter. The skills you acquire can be directly applied to your career or personal projects.
Prizes and Recognition
Who doesn’t love a prize? Even if you don’t clinch the top spot, the experience itself is invaluable.
Project Exposure
Your hackathon project won’t gather dust. Projecting Success showcases winning projects, and industry experts take notice of our Solutions Centre. Imagine presenting your solution to potential employers or investors and being able to explain its real-world effects. It’s a chance to shine and demonstrate your capabilities.
So grab your laptop, fuel up on caffeine, and dive into the world of innovation. Who knows? Your next breakthrough might be just a hackathon away!
Join us for our upcoming hackathon events:
Project:Hack23 Kick Off and Info Session: Join us in person to network and find out more about our in-person hackathons
Project:Hack 23 at Rolls Royce Derby: Experience the energy and excitement of hacking in person.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Science are revolutionising industries across the globe. With advancements in automation, predictive analytics, and machine learning, businesses are using AI to transform decision-making and optimise operations. But what are the key AI and Data Science trends driving innovation, and how can professionals stay ahead in this rapidly evolving field?
In this blog post, we’ll explore the top AI and Data Science trends to watch in 2024 and highlight how you can upskill through our Level 7 AI Specialist Apprenticeship, designed to prepare you for the future of work.
1. AI for Business Decision Making and Automation
AI is transforming how companies make decisions, helping businesses analyze massive amounts of data quickly and accurately. In 2024, expect to see more organisations adopting AI-powered automation to streamline processes, reduce costs, and improve productivity. AI is especially valuable in industries like finance, healthcare, and retail, where data-driven decision-making is essential for growth.
To stay competitive, professionals need to be proficient in both AI technologies and Data Science techniques to help businesses leverage AI’s full potential. Upskilling in AI ensures you’re equipped with the tools and knowledge to lead data-driven initiatives.
2. Ethical AI and Bias Mitigation
As artificial intelligence continues to shape industries, ethical concerns around AI bias and fairness are becoming more prominent. AI algorithms, if not carefully designed, can perpetuate existing biases or create new ethical issues. In response, businesses are prioritiaing ethical AI development and ensuring models are transparent and explainable.
Organisations are also adhering to new AI regulations focused on fairness and transparency. Professionals who understand how to mitigate AI bias and ensure compliance with ethical standards will be in high demand.
3. AI-Driven Automation and the Future of Work
AI automation is expected to impact almost every sector, from logistics and manufacturing to marketing and customer service. While some fear that automation will replace jobs, it’s more likely that AI will create new roles and redefine existing ones. In 2024, AI will enhance workplace productivity by handling repetitive tasks and freeing up human workers for more strategic, creative tasks.
To thrive in this evolving landscape, professionals must embrace automation and develop expertise in AI deployment. Learning how to work alongside AI-driven systems will be a crucial skill in the workforce of the future.
4. Edge Computing and AI in IoT
The growth of edge computing is another trend to watch in AI and Data Science. Edge AI brings computing and data analysis closer to the source, rather than relying on cloud-based solutions. This reduces latency and enables real-time data processing, which is critical for IoT devices, smart cities, autonomous vehicles, and healthcare applications.
As the number of connected devices continues to rise, businesses will need AI professionals who can develop and deploy edge computing solutions to handle real-time data efficiently.
5. AI for Sustainability and Climate Action
AI’s potential to address global challenges like climate change is enormous. AI is being used to optimize energy use, reduce waste, and drive sustainable business practices. AI-powered sustainability initiatives are helping industries cut carbon emissions, improve resource management, and combat climate change.
In 2024, more businesses will turn to AI to help meet their sustainability goals. Professionals who specialize in AI for sustainability will be in high demand as companies seek to balance profitability with environmental responsibility.
Upskilling in AI: Why Our Level 7 AI Specialist Apprenticeship is Critical for Your Career
With AI and Data Science evolving rapidly, staying ahead of the curve requires continuous learning and upskilling. Our Level 7 AI Specialist Apprenticeship offers the perfect opportunity to gain cutting-edge skills in AI and Data Science while working on real-world projects. This program covers everything from AI ethics to machine learning algorithms, equipping you with the expertise needed to thrive in a world increasingly driven by data and AI.
Whether you’re a professional looking to enhance your AI skills or someone wanting to transition into the field, our Level 7 apprenticeship offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines theory with practical applications.
Conclusion
The future of AI and Data Science holds immense promise, with trends like automation, ethical AI, and sustainability at the forefront of innovation. By keeping up with these emerging trends and investing in upskilling, you can ensure your career remains future-proof in this rapidly changing landscape.
To learn more about how our Level 7 AI Specialist Apprenticeship can help you stay ahead in the AI revolution, get in touch with us today.
In today’s fast-paced project management landscape, the need for clear, actionable data is more critical than ever. Project delivery dashboards are a key tool in empowering decision-makers, but are your dashboards truly driving better outcomes, or are they overwhelming your users with too much information? In this blog post, we delve into how to transform your project delivery dashboards based on insights shared by Gerard Duggan, a data analytics expert from KBR, in his recent webinar, Breaking Bad: How Project Delivery Dashboards Need to Change. By following best practices in dashboard design and data visualisation, your organisation can avoid common pitfalls and create dashboards that deliver real value.
Why Effective Dashboards Are Critical for Project Delivery
For project managers, data is everywhere. Whether it’s construction, engineering, or another complex field, stakeholders at every level of an organisation need access to the right information to make informed decisions. Yet, many dashboards fail to provide the context necessary for quick, efficient decision-making.
A typical project delivery dashboard might show progress reports, cost breakdowns, or personnel statistics, but as Gerard Duggan points out, numbers alone aren’t enough. Without the right context, how can you know if being 40% complete is good or bad? Is a project ahead of schedule or dangerously behind? Without adding insights such as planned versus actual progress, or highlighting important deviations, these numbers are meaningless.
Key Challenges in Project Delivery Dashboards
Here are some common issues that plague project dashboards:
- Information Overload: Many dashboards throw too much information at the user, making it difficult to know what’s important. Gerard recalls his early days in dashboard design, where he would cram too many metrics and visuals onto one screen, confusing rather than enlightening the user.
- Lack of Focus: Gerard explains that dashboards must stay focused on key objectives. What do decision-makers really need to know to act? If you can’t answer that question, the dashboard will likely fail.
- Poor Visualisation Choices: Choosing the wrong type of visualisation can overwhelm users. Gerard advises using simple, familiar visuals like bar charts or line graphs. Complex visuals such as chord diagrams might look impressive but are often not user-friendly.
- Failure to Communicate the Story Behind the Data: A great dashboard tells a story. It provides a logical flow of information, starting with high-level insights and drilling down into more detailed data when needed. Gerard highlights the importance of structuring dashboards so users know where to start and what action to take next.
How to Build Effective Dashboards for Project Delivery
If your dashboards are suffering from any of the challenges above, here are the steps you can take to improve them:
1. Understand Stakeholder Needs
Before you begin designing your dashboard, you need to understand your end users. What information is most critical to them? As Gerard emphasises, stakeholder engagement is key to ensuring the dashboard delivers value. This is where your soft skills come in – engage with project managers, C-suite executives, and even operational staff to understand their specific requirements.
2. Use Context to Give Meaning to Data
Numbers by themselves can be meaningless without context. A progress bar showing 40% completion means nothing unless you know whether that’s ahead of or behind schedule. Including planned versus actual progress, benchmarks, and performance against key metrics can help users understand the story the data is telling.
3. Simplify Your Design
Avoid the temptation to use flashy, complex visualisations. Gerard’s advice is simple: keep it clean. Stick to visuals that your users can understand at a glance. A simple line chart showing progress over time or a bar chart comparing planned vs. actual performance is often more effective than a multi-coloured radial chart.
4. Prototype Before You Build
Rather than spending weeks building a dashboard that might not meet your users' needs, sketch it out first. Use paper, or a quick design tool, and show it to stakeholders before committing time and resources. Gerard advocates this approach as it allows you to iterate quickly and ensure that you’re on the right track before you invest heavily in development.
What Makes a Good Project Delivery Dashboard?
The best dashboards share a few common traits:
- Clarity: Every element on the dashboard should serve a purpose. Avoid clutter and unnecessary details.
- Actionable Insights: Your dashboard should lead users to take action. If something is falling behind schedule, make it obvious so the user can act quickly.
- Contextual Data: Always provide the "why" behind the data. Are the numbers good or bad? How does performance compare to the plan?
- Customisation for Different Audiences: As Gerard explains, dashboards are not one-size-fits-all. A C-suite executive might need a high-level summary, while a project manager might need granular data. Build different dashboards for different users.
The Power of Storytelling in Dashboards
Data storytelling is more than just a buzzword; it’s a critical aspect of effective dashboard design. Gerard highlights that dashboards should guide users through the data in a logical way, starting from high-level insights and allowing them to drill down into more detailed data as needed. By using visual hierarchy, colour theory, and cognitive science principles, you can lead the user through the data journey and help them make sense of complex information without being overwhelmed.
One important aspect of storytelling is colour usage. Gerard points out that colour should have a clear purpose in your dashboard. For example, use colour sparingly to highlight key points or areas that require immediate attention, rather than applying a rainbow of colours that competes for the user's focus.
Breaking Bad: How Project Delivery Dashboards Need to Change
In today’s fast-paced project management landscape, the need for clear, actionable data is more critical than ever. Project delivery dashboards are a key tool in empowering decision-makers, but are your dashboards truly driving better outcomes, or are they overwhelming your users with too much information? In this blog post, we delve into how to transform your project delivery dashboards based on insights shared by Gerard Duggan, a data analytics expert from KBR, in his recent webinar, Breaking Bad: How Project Delivery Dashboards Need to Change. By following best practices in dashboard design and data visualisation, your organisation can avoid common pitfalls and create dashboards that deliver real value.
Why Effective Dashboards Are Critical for Project Delivery
For project managers, data is everywhere. Whether it’s construction, engineering, or another complex field, stakeholders at every level of an organisation need access to the right information to make informed decisions. Yet, many dashboards fail to provide the context necessary for quick, efficient decision-making.
A typical project delivery dashboard might show progress reports, cost breakdowns, or personnel statistics, but as Gerard Duggan points out, numbers alone aren’t enough. Without the right context, how can you know if being 40% complete is good or bad? Is a project ahead of schedule or dangerously behind? Without adding insights such as planned versus actual progress, or highlighting important deviations, these numbers are meaningless.
Key Challenges in Project Delivery Dashboard
Here are some common issues that plague project dashboards:
- Information Overload: Many dashboards throw too much information at the user, making it difficult to know what’s important. Gerard recalls his early days in dashboard design, where he would cram too many metrics and visuals onto one screen, confusing rather than enlightening the user.
- Lack of Focus: Gerard explains that dashboards must stay focused on key objectives. What do decision-makers really need to know to act? If you can’t answer that question, the dashboard will likely fail.
- Poor Visualisation Choices: Choosing the wrong type of visualisation can overwhelm users. Gerard advises using simple, familiar visuals like bar charts or line graphs. Complex visuals such as chord diagrams might look impressive but are often not user-friendly.
- Failure to Communicate the Story Behind the Data: A great dashboard tells a story. It provides a logical flow of information, starting with high-level insights and drilling down into more detailed data when needed. Gerard highlights the importance of structuring dashboards so users know where to start and what action to take next.
How to Build Effective Dashboards for Project Delivery
If your dashboards are suffering from any of the challenges above, here are the steps you can take to improve them:
1. Understand Stakeholder Needs
Before you begin designing your dashboard, you need to understand your end users. What information is most critical to them? As Gerard emphasises, stakeholder engagement is key to ensuring the dashboard delivers value. This is where your soft skills come in – engage with project managers, C-suite executives, and even operational staff to understand their specific requirements.
2. Use Context to Give Meaning to Data
Numbers by themselves can be meaningless without context. A progress bar showing 40% completion means nothing unless you know whether that’s ahead of or behind schedule. Including planned versus actual progress, benchmarks, and performance against key metrics can help users understand the story the data is telling.
3. Simplify Your Design
Avoid the temptation to use flashy, complex visualisations. Gerard’s advice is simple: keep it clean. Stick to visuals that your users can understand at a glance. A simple line chart showing progress over time or a bar chart comparing planned vs. actual performance is often more effective than a multi-coloured radial chart.
4. Prototype Before You Build
Rather than spending weeks building a dashboard that might not meet your users' needs, sketch it out first. Use paper, or a quick design tool, and show it to stakeholders before committing time and resources. Gerard advocates this approach as it allows you to iterate quickly and ensure that you’re on the right track before you invest heavily in development.
What Makes a Good Project Delivery Dashboard?
The best dashboards share a few common traits:
- Clarity: Every element on the dashboard should serve a purpose. Avoid clutter and unnecessary details.
- Actionable Insights: Your dashboard should lead users to take action. If something is falling behind schedule, make it obvious so the user can act quickly.
- Contextual Data: Always provide the "why" behind the data. Are the numbers good or bad? How does performance compare to the plan?
- Customisation for Different Audiences: As Gerard explains, dashboards are not one-size-fits-all. A C-suite executive might need a high-level summary, while a project manager might need granular data. Build different dashboards for different users.
The Power of Storytelling in Dashboards
Data storytelling is more than just a buzzword; it’s a critical aspect of effective dashboard design. Gerard highlights that dashboards should guide users through the data in a logical way, starting from high-level insights and allowing them to drill down into more detailed data as needed. By using visual hierarchy, colour theory, and cognitive science principles, you can lead the user through the data journey and help them make sense of complex information without being overwhelmed.
One important aspect of storytelling is colour usage. Gerard points out that colour should have a clear purpose in your dashboard. For example, use colour sparingly to highlight key points or areas that require immediate attention, rather than applying a rainbow of colours that competes for the user's focus.
Conclusion
Effective project delivery dashboards can make or break a project. By focusing on simplicity, stakeholder engagement, and actionable insights, you can create dashboards that not only look good but actually help your team make better decisions. As Gerard Duggan’s webinar illustrates, the key to success lies in understanding what your users need and presenting the data in a clear, focused way.
Want to learn more? Watch the full webinar Breaking Bad: How Project Delivery Dashboards Need to Change or sign up for our upcoming hackathons to get hands-on experience in dashboard design.
Today’s webinar, The Future of Risk Management, delivered valuable insights into the evolving landscape of risk management and project delivery. Led by Martin Paver (CEO, Projecting Success) and David Turnbull (Enterprise Project Controls Manager, EDF) the session focused on how risk professionals can stay ahead of the curve by embracing innovative approaches and leveraging cutting-edge tools and skills.
Embracing the Future: A No-Brainer for Risk Professionals
Martin kicked off the session by emphasizing the critical importance of future-proofing in the risk management profession. "If I was in this profession, and someone offered to future-proof me, I'd bite their hand off," he remarked, underscoring the urgency for risk professionals to boost their CVs and become pioneers in the field. The message was clear: the future is here, and it’s an opportunity for professionals to lead rather than follow.
Reimagining Project Delivery at EDF: Mindset, Skillset, and Toolset
David Turnbull from EDF shared how his organization is reimagining project delivery through a holistic approach focused on mindset, skillset, and toolset. According to Turnbull, 2023 was the "year of the toolset," where EDF concentrated on building the infrastructure necessary to harness data effectively. This included the creation of data lakes, real-time information access, and ensuring the infrastructure was in place to utilize data in innovative ways.
Looking ahead to 2024, Turnbull described it as the "year of the skillset," where EDF is focused on upskilling both seasoned professionals and those already proficient in data analytics. By combining a robust infrastructure with enhanced skills, Turnbull believes the organization can change the mindset of its employees, ultimately transforming how projects are delivered. He highlighted the importance of using data to optimize processes, drawing an analogy to using real-time traffic data to avoid congestion and choose better routes.
The Importance of Changing Mindsets
David also spoke passionately about the need for a mindset shift across the UK’s project delivery landscape. He noted that the country has struggled with delivering major construction projects on time and within scope, with many projects stalling or failing to meet their original objectives. For Turnbull, the answer lies in reimagining how projects are delivered, starting with a more strategic approach to risk management.
Upskilling and Surfing the AI Wave
Martin provided further details on the future of risk management, particularly the role of apprenticeships in building critical skills. He discussed a 15-month apprenticeship program that combines online learning, hackathons, and off-the-job hours to help professionals build a strong portfolio. Martin also emphasised the importance of upskilling to stay relevant in an increasingly AI-driven world, noting that those who embrace these changes are likely to see significant career advancements and increased earning potential.
Paver’s advice to risk professionals was clear: don’t wait. He encouraged participants to actively engage with new technologies, learn continuously, and become pathfinders in their field. "It’s a perfect time to surf the AI wave rather than get crushed by it," Martin stated, encapsulating the essence of the webinar.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
As the session drew to a close, Martin and David reiterated the importance of embracing change and leading the charge in reimagining project delivery. They invited participants to join the conversation, get involved in the coalition, and explore the training opportunities available to become part of the future of risk management.
The webinar concluded with a call to action for risk professionals to take proactive steps towards upskilling, adopting new technologies, and transforming how projects are managed in the UK. The message was clear: the future of risk management is not just about surviving change—it’s about thriving in it.
To find out more about our risk management course, contact us now at enquiries@projectingsuccess.co.uk