Steps for Managing Multiple Projects

Tackling a host of accounting projects in the office can leave both employees and managers taxed. By learning how to properly manage multiple projects, you can plan and execute them efficiently and help lead your team to success.

Define the Scope of the Projects

Managing multiple projects begins with defining the scope of each project that you are working on. Gather the basic information necessary to satisfy the initial requirements of each one. Consider whether different projects are short-term or long-term. Determine what resources are needed to complete them, and organize all of this information in a single document before you start.

List the Goals of Each Project

Without articulated and agreed upon results, multiple projects can continue indefinitely and drain company resources as well as the workforce. After you define the scope the projects, list the goals and objectives for each one. Create achievable milestones for every stage of the projects to ensure they stay on track. Creating a list of goals at the onset ensures the projects have the direction necessary to optimize the use of the time and manpower available.

Assign a Team for Each Project

To make the process of tracking multiple projects smoother, appoint specific team members for each one. Each group should have a project manager to address disagreements and ensure that people are held accountable for their assigned tasks. Work closely with every project manager to make sure they understand the critical aspects of their projects, and review the methods used to document information. Make sure there is sufficient manpower on each project to create a fair and balanced workload.

Set Deadlines

Understanding how much time the team has to finish a project is essential for effective execution. Set reasonable deadlines for every project to avoid the risk of burnout. Be willing to adjust the deadline for a project if necessary to accommodate unique circumstances and unforeseen setbacks.

Organize the Data for Each Project

Take the time to organize the data for multiple projects separately to avoid confusion and frustration. Everyone working on a particular project must be able to obtain necessary information from a secure, well-organized location. In addition to storing and organizing data on office equipment, teams can use a cloud drive to allow members to connect to the information they need from external locations.

Review Your Progress

Review the progress of each project a regular basis to ensure they are proceeding according to schedule and to prevent workers from wasting valuable time on mistakes that can be corrected with proper guidance. Examine the data to see if each team is reaching its goals and objectives. Offer workable solutions for projects that require improvement. Additionally, review the feedback of team members in order to provide relevant direction and help when needed.

Managers and employees run the risk of burnout if they attempt to tack multiple projects without a solid plan of action. Take the steps necessary to implement them simultaneously, and you can stay on course to see the successful completion of each one.

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