1.3 Support Team Performance

Enablers

This task emphasizes the project manager’s role in fostering a high-performing team environment. It’s not just about monitoring performance, but actively creating an environment that fosters individual growth, collaboration, and ultimately, project success.

1.3.1 Appraise Team Member Performance Against Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Establish Clear KPIs: Define measurable and specific goals for each team member aligned with project objectives.
• Choose Appropriate Metrics: Select metrics that accurately reflect progress towards KPIs and are relevant to the team member’s role.
• Regular Monitoring and Tracking: Regularly monitor performance against KPIs using data collection methods like reports and observations.
• Performance Appraisal Meetings: Conduct regular meetings to discuss individual performance, address concerns, and celebrate achievements.
• Continuous Improvement: Utilize feedback from appraisals to adjust KPIs, provide support, and encourage ongoing development.

1.3.2 Support and Recognize Team Member Growth and Development

• Create a Culture of Learning: Foster an environment that encourages learning, skill development, and knowledge sharing.
• Provide Regular Feedback and Performance Coaching: Offer constructive and timely feedback, guide improvements, and support career aspirations.
• Offer Challenging and Stimulating Work: Assign tasks that stretch abilities, promote engagement, and allow for continuous learning.
• Recognition and Celebration: Acknowledge and reward exemplary performance, contributions, and milestones achieved.
• Invest in Leadership Development: Equip team members with leadership skills to foster collaboration, empower others, and grow within the team.

1.3.3 Determine Appropriate Feedback Approach

• Consider the Context: Evaluate the situation, objectives, and individual dynamics before delivering feedback.
• Assess Individual Preferences: Understand how each team member prefers to receive feedback (e.g., private setting, direct or indirect communication).
• Evaluate the Feedback Content: Focus on specific actions, behavior changes, and offer solutions instead of solely highlighting shortcomings.
• Build a Feedback Culture: Encourage open communication, feedback exchange, and create a safe space for constructive criticism and learning.

1.3.4 Verify Performance Improvement

• Track Progress against Performance Indicators: Monitor performance metrics and compare them to established KPIs to assess progress.
• Seek Qualitative Feedback: Gather feedback from team members, stakeholders, and self-assessments to gauge improvements in skills and behaviors.
• Focus on Behavior Change: Observe and evaluate changes in actual behavior and the impact on team performance, not just theoretical understanding.
• Adapt and Modify: Based on the verification results, adjust the development plan, provide additional support, or modify KPIs to sustain improvement.

Traditional vs. Agile

• Traditional projects take a predefined and structured approach to team performance. They establish fixed KPIs at project start, implement formal training programs, deliver periodic feedback through reviews, and mainly rely on quantitative data for verification.

• Agile projects, on the other hand, favor a flexible and adaptive approach. They allow for adaptable KPIs, emphasize continuous learning through iterations, encourage frequent and informal feedback, and utilize both quantitative and qualitative data for verification.

By understanding and applying these enablers, project managers can effectively support team performance, fostering a positive learning environment, and achieving project objectives through a motivated and skilled team.