Project Management Tips

Working for the last 2 years in the Tech Sector as a Project Manager, here’s my biggest realization:

Frameworks like Agile, Scrum, and Six Sigma? Great in theory.

But in reality? Projects rarely go as planned.

Why? Because life happens:

• Plans shift.
• Approvals get delayed.
• Key resources go on leave.
• External factors (like shipments or dependencies) disrupt timelines.

And suddenly, the perfect framework feels like a rigid checklist rather than a guide.

Here’s how I’ve learned to adapt:

• Start with the End Date: Lock in the target deadline. This becomes your anchor for all planning.
• Work Backwards: Build timelines in reverse from the deadline to today — it keeps things grounded and realistic.
• Set Clear Milestones: Break the project into small, manageable chunks with tangible outcomes.
• Prioritize Progress Over Perfection: Hitting milestones consistently beats obsessing over getting everything flawless.
• No overthinking, no over-complicating — just actionable steps to deliver results.

The Biggest Lesson?

Frameworks are helpful tools, but flexibility is the real game-changer. Plans will change, and that’s okay. Adapting while keeping the goal in sight is what drives success.

How about you? How do you handle it when the perfect plan doesn’t pan out?