One of the most challenging tasks in the data school learning process is managing a data project efficiently. This week, I was tasked with managing an internal project within a week, and my top five important aspects and my learning process are as follows:
- Time Management: Managing projects within a week is a tight schedule, especially considering other commitments like learning sessions, makeover Mondays, and internal meetings. While nominally you have five days, in practice, you have about half of that time available for actual project work. It's crucial to allocate this time wisely, focusing on tasks like data cleaning, dashboard sketching, building, polishing, and presentation.
- Documentation: Before initiating any project, it's essential to establish how you'll manage and document the process. Utilizing tools like Notion for weekly project documentation and OneDrive for storing Tableau dashboards and data proved beneficial. A structured documentation process enhances clarity for both you and your team, ensuring alignment with client requirements and needs.
- Communication: As the focal point of the project, effective communication with clients, team members, trainers, and consultants is paramount for smooth project management. Utilizing tools like Teams for internal communication and employing concise email writing for formal communication ensures efficient collaboration.
- Forward Thinking: While the team is engaged in tasks like sketching, data preparation, and gathering requirements, it's crucial as the project focal point to anticipate next steps and project progression. Providing templates, establishing color palettes, developing Notion documentation, organizing documentation folders, and making quick decisions contribute to project momentum and team confidence.
- Task Delegation: Delegating project tasks among the team is essential for effective project management. While project time is a collaborative effort, delegating tasks such as data cleaning, sketching, and identifying client needs to the team members ensures timely progress. It's important to consider team capabilities and timing when assigning tasks and to encourage quick outputs from team members.