Managing outcomes

So, since “change” normally means achieving a desired “outcome”, let’s talk about outcomes.

What we build in a project is the output (a product). The output has the potential to create outcomes in the wider context, but in many cases, this potential depends on extra activities (e.g., training) or projects. That’s why managing outcomes is primarily the subject of program management.

Similarly to what we had before about justification and value, the fact that something has to be done at a higher level doesn’t mean we don’t have anything to do with it in the project. We still have to understand why we’re doing the project and what the changes and desired outcomes are, and align ourselves with them. We also have to provide the higher levels with the information they need to manage those outcomes.

So, as a project manager, feel free to see yourself as a change enabler.