In this fast moving world, several things I’ve grown quite accustomed to. Being able to easily measure progress is one of those things. Unfortunately, we are at the stage where measurable progress for Code Eight is hard to… measure. I like to see things checked off, finished, working, and ready. However, I’ve learned recently that with programming sometimes those things aren’t as easily stated.
Set something measurable
Ask any programmer and they’ll tell you that they know what needs done. Each programmed element is made up of tiny elements (those things that designers like me don’t know). They may be 90% done with one task and it’s taken them all week because of the 100 mini todo’s that make up that task. Don’t misunderstand me, designers don’t need to know all the minute details. What I am suggesting though is use some project management software to track tasks, projects, milestones, and the like. With this you’ll always be able to see some progress.
Stay on top of it
Of course, you’re going to want to frequently check in with your designers and programmers to check their progress (even if you can see it in your project management software). Not to bug them, but to stay informed. At least at this point that’s what I’ve found to be the most effective.
Don’t be afraid when you don’t see progress, because the chances are things are getting done without you knowing it. Marc Amos stated that “even immeasurable progress is progress.” He is absolutely right!
March 20th, 2008 at 7:49 pm
Products can be complex, project management does not have to be. Something like http://www.statuswiz.com works for most cases.
March 21st, 2008 at 10:32 am
Good thinking! I think that it’s almost impossible to develop a program without a proper task tracking tool. There are many of them on the web. There are even free ones. My team uses Wrike and we are very happy we’ve found it. You are more than welcome to check it out.