Supporting the implementation of the Information Architecture & Navigation project
Embarking on a new project is an exhilarating journey filled with anticipation and possibilities. Especially when it’s a Planet 4 project, of course. However, the true measure of success lies not only in the conception of ideas but also in their implementation. Make no mistake: The P4 new Information Architecture and Navigation (IA&Nav) project is complex and takes time, but there is a lot we can do to support people who get on this journey.
Let’s explore the strategies we put in place for supporting the implementation of a project, ensuring that it not only meets its objectives… but also thrives.
Clear Project Vision and Objectives
Before diving into implementation, it’s crucial to have a well-defined project vision and clear objectives. To ensure having a shared vision and understanding of the purpose and goal of the new IA&Nav Project, we made sure of a couple of things:
- regular and clear communication (through a detailed project plan, built in Asana),
- workshops to keep everyone aligned and motivated on this big project,
- frequent check-ins to see how everyone is doing.
Effective Project Management
It’s a cliché, but it’s also very true: Communication is the lifeblood of any successful project. We want to make sure NROs can work on the IA implementation at their own tempo and create an environment of support. To establish that, we make sure that our channels are open for all sorts of communication. The P4 team really wants to foster a project where everyone feels comfortable sharing ideas, concerns, and progress. Transparency is key.
Solid project management is the basis of the implementation. Otherwise, it’d be sailing without a compass, so a proper framework is needed. The backbone of this management is built in Asana, which includes organized tasks, deadlines, track progress and more. All of these bullet points are assigned to a person responsible for that task. This made sure that not only the tasks are clearly defined but also who is taking responsibility for their role within the IA&Nav project.
Resources and Training
A good amount of resources are needed for a successful implementation. After all, we are talking about analyzing the structure of a site and changing the way users navigate it. Workshops were conceived to streamline the conception of a personalized taxonomy and to create a space for discussion among co-workers. At the same time, it’s important for NROs to be able to work on the IA&Nav project at their own pace. This is where the documentation comes in.
We created a good amount of pages in the P4 Handbook to explain the process, the differences (with before and after screenshots), where to find all the tools, a glossary and other types of documentation (such as videos). Additionally, we also created online courses to help NROs carry out their tasks efficiently.
These resources, workshops, and training get regularly assessed and updated to meet the changing project requirements. Small things naturally evolve over time, and the documentation needs to reflect these changes. The idea is to provide opportunities and skill development, which can only be done when the NRO’s taking on the IA&Nav project are a well-equipped team. Continuous monitoring isn’t just for the people taking on the project; it’s also something we have to take into account for ourselves. Feedback to us is always more than welcome, the P4 team is also here to learn and grow.
Flexibility
We all know this, so let’s keep on being honest: Projects rarely go exactly as planned. Certain things might take more time than thought, or there might be a technical issue. Whatever the case, adaptability and flexibility are necessary to keep the project going. We embrace changes in the project plan and navigate uncertainties with the NROs together to tackle these unexpected challenges that may come up.
NROs aren’t obligated to consult the P4 Team when things don’t go as planned. They’re free to take on these challenges by themselves as a resilient team. But if there’s an ask for help, the P4 Team will always be there to update the project to make sure the outcomes of the IA&Nav project are a success and as expected (or even better!).
Celebrate Milestones
Look, no matter how small a milestone is, it’s good to recognize and celebrate achievements. It keeps everyone motivated, creates a positive project culture, and … it’s just always fun to celebrate when you can. A simple shout-out to the team can do a lot, and it’s also a good way to stay up to date with the latest developments of the project.
Conclusion
Supporting the implementation of a project of this scale requires clear communication, effective project management, informative documentation, trust in the team’s skills, and an overall collaborative environment with continuous improvements from day to day.
A successful implementation of the IA&Nav is not just achieving the end goal of rebuilding NRO’s websites to match their priorities with their audience’s points of interest. It’s about building a resilient and adaptable part of the community to tackle future challenges together.
