Page 69 - NeedScope Induction Manual 2019
P. 69
Project
management
Management is a key concept. It requires that • Determine who is responsible for what
everyone involved in the project has a clear • Set up meetings in advance for critical
understanding of the objectives of the study: times with the appropriate people,
• In client terms – what are the client’s including the Research Director
business objectives and issues, and how
is the research going to be used This is an essential component of understanding
• In research terms – what are the research the project management function – taking
objectives, method and outcomes, who is ownership of the process and in effect
responsible for what ‘managing’ the time and involvement of the
Director as well as others involved in the
It is critical that you receive a thorough project.
briefing at the beginning of the study. If this
hasn’t happened, it is your responsibility to go Be organised:
to the project leader (usually the Director or • Planning upfront avoids a lot of problems
Research Director) and ask for one. • Allow sufficient time for client input -
understand if there are any issues around
At the briefing you should know: this
• Market background • Involve Design early in process
• Business issues/decisions
• Research objectives Communicate:
• Research design and rationale • Discuss project with key people (and
• Project time-frame agree when their input will be required)
• Clarify your role and others • Flag up any potential flash points
Now create your critical path:
• Use the Project Planner to plan timing
• Identify critical dates – including
fieldwork requirements, when you require
information, stimuli and sign-off from the
client
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