We have all watched the countdowns on TV as NASA or Elon Musk have prepared to shoot rockets and astronauts into space. We have heard it a thousand times as the broadcasters explain that the team has come to another Go / No Go decision point in the launch sequence.
Usually, one of three decisions are made at each Go / No Go decision point in the launch sequence. The typical options are:
- Launch as planned
- Delay the launch for some period, or
- Cancel the launch
We as project leaders should consider adding these Go / No Go decision points into our projects. Some PMOs already insist in controlling projects as they move between project phases. These controls are often referred to as gate controls or just gates. The project must pass the gate checklist before moving to the next phase.
So where should we consider adding these Go /No Go decision points? Consider these suggestions:
- At the end of the Initiation Phase. Are we ready to being planning? Do we have stakeholder approval? Is the project funded?
- At the end of Risk Review. Do the identified risks outweigh the project benefits?
- At the end of Planning Phase? Are all required planning documents complete and approved by customer or stakeholders? Are we staffed?
- During Testing Reviews. Does the work product do what it was intended to do? Are we ready to begin testing?
- Before Field deployment. Is the customer ready to accept the work product? Is training complete?
- Before the project Go Live event. Are we sure everything ready? Have we reviewed all check lists? Do we have a roll-back plan if needed?
Where would you add Go /No Go decision checkpoints to your project?