Projects Require Time

Every three months or so, I start on a new project. I am a software architect and my job requires me to move to different projects throughout the year. I’ve worked on startup airlines, medical referral systems, real estate sites, and intellectual property systems. Through them all, one thing is clear: projects require time.

Too many projects try to rush through the work to get to the end. The problem is that we often get so busy doing that we forget to stop and think. We forget to think about what we are building. We forget to think about what is best for the customer. We forget to think about what could happen if something goes wrong.

I’ve learned that some projects are best if they are given more time. Time to emerge from nothing. Time to take shape. Time to think on the next steps. Time to breathe.

Whenever I engage in a new project, I now try to provide more calendar time than work time. This allows for down time by the team, as well as sick time and vacation time for us to rest and refresh.

As you plan your next project, consider adding some extra time throughout the project. I think you’ll find that the project will go that much better.

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