Assembling a Project Team: 6 Things to Consider

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The success of any project largely depends on the team tasked with executing it. Assembling an effective project team is an art as much as it is a science. It requires an intricate understanding of individuals’ skills and personalities, their ability to collaborate, and their commitment to the project’s goals.

Despite how hard project teams work, statistics show that 65% of projects ultimately fail for one reason or another. But this doesn’t have to be the case with your project, as this article shares the best practices when it comes to assembling a winning team and ensuring success.

Clear Understanding of Project Objectives and Requirements

Every project starts with a comprehensive project brief — a document detailing what the project is about, its goals, the expected deliverables, timelines, and other pertinent details. It serves as a guiding document that provides a roadmap for the project’s journey.

Understanding the project’s objectives and requirements is a fundamental step in forming a team. These objectives and requirements are often outlined in the project brief. By thoroughly analyzing the brief, project managers can gain a deep understanding of what the project entails. The nature of the project — as outlined in the brief — determines the skill sets required and the number of people needed.

For example, a brief for an IT project might specify the need for individuals with technical expertise in certain programming languages or software. On the other hand, a marketing project requires a creative brief that might highlight the need for creative minds who excel in content creation, brand strategy, and social media management.

The project brief can also shed light on other factors that might influence team selection, such as the project’s timeline, budget, and scope of work. Even if a project seems straightforward, crafting a project brief is worthwhile as it will ensure that all of your team members share the same vision.

Recognizing Individual Skill Sets

When you have a clear understanding of the project’s objectives, the next step is to identify the skills necessary to achieve them. This involves a deep understanding of each potential team member’s abilities, both technical and soft skills. You’ll need a mix of strategists, implementers, creative thinkers, problem-solvers, and people with exceptional communication skills.

This balance ensures you have the right person for every task, leading to higher efficiency and project success.

Understanding Communication Styles

Communication is the backbone of any project team. Every individual has a unique communication style. Some are straightforward and assertive, while others are more introspective and prefer time to process information. Some might favor digital communication, while others might prefer in-person meetings.

Identifying and respecting these communication styles can facilitate better understanding, minimize conflicts, and foster a positive team environment.

Evaluating Availability and Workload

During the team formation phase, considering each member’s availability and current workload is crucial. It’s important not to overload team members, as this can lead to decreased productivity and potential burnout.

A clear discussion about expectations and commitment at the beginning of the project can ensure that each team member can adequately contribute without feeling overwhelmed.