Deadline Drama? Speak Up, Step Up, and Save Face – Your 5-Step Project Rescue Plan

Harold Robert Meyer / The ADD Resource Center addrc.org 11/01/2024

1. Communicate early

• Don’t wait until the deadline – inform stakeholders as soon as you recognize there will be a delay
• Be proactive rather than waiting to be asked about the status
• Clearly organize your thoughts before communicating. Understand what you will say and how to express it.

2. Be honest and specific

• Explain the exact situation and reasons for the delay
• Provide a realistic revised timeline
• Share what portion is complete and what remains to be done

3. Present a clear plan

• Outline specific steps you’ll take to minimize the delay
• Suggest potential alternatives or interim deliverables
• Identify if you need additional resources or support

4. Take responsibility

• Own the situation without making excuses
• Focus on solutions rather than problems
• Document lessons learned to prevent similar issues in future

5. Mitigate impact

• Consider if temporary workarounds are possible
• Determine if parts of the project can be delivered on schedule
• Identify ways to reduce negative effects on dependent projects or teams

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