Small Business Guides

Does Remote Project Management Really Work?

Generally, this question is answered with a yes. It is practical, and many companies have successfully completed mega projects with over 70 percent of the work done by the virtual team. Some project management experts, however, argue that this option is only for small projects rather than the big ones. Also, they add that remote project management may not work if one does not have the appropriate resources like real-time resource management software, quality control tools, reporting platforms and Commissioning Software among other things. So, what increases the chances of succeeding in remote project management?

Experienced Virtual Team

Organizations that have established experienced and reliable virtual teams do not have difficulty dealing with remote projects. Each person in the team knows what they are supposed to do without having to be supervised. Such a team may not necessarily have met, but they work in harmony to complete one task.

Appropriate Tools

The major tools in question here include software and apps. For remote access, these tools should be online and shared among all parties for work to proceed in harmony. As the project leaders, ensure that these tools are ideal and leave no stone unturned. The best tools cover material control, procurement management, quality control and reporting options.

Clear Policies

In absence of the meeting physically, transparent policies will guide the virtual team. Each person should have a clear job description, communication channels and policies to follow. In matters related to policies, each person in the team should know to whom they are answerable.

Benefits of Remote Project Management

Now that we have seen what makes remote project management a success, let us look at its benefits.

  •         Saves on costs - the technology will close the distance gap in an inexpensive way. The cost of travel will be eliminated. The price of buying software and apps, as well as maintaining them, is relatively lower.
  •         No boundary limits - remote project management makes it possible for companies to work on projects across borders. One does not need to travel to the project site if the team members already know their work.
  •         Interaction with top talent - instead of being confined to your home area, virtual project managers and other team members have the opportunity to interact with people from different parts of the world. It is possible to come across talented people who will change your life.

Are There Challenges Involved?

Yes, as mentioned earlier, this option will not work in all situations. Some challenges may arise. These challenges are mainly posed to those organizations that are not well organized. Loss of data can be a major threat to remote project management. Other projects can be delayed if the team is not disciplined enough to engage in self-supervision. If one person does not complete the required work on time, the whole team may be delayed.

Conclusion

Project management companies should not shy away from remotely managing projects. With better organization and the right tools, achieving results equal to or better than physical projects is possible. So, the answer to whether this works or not is YES!