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Buffering Deliverables as a Program Manager

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As a project manager, one of the most important skills you can possess is the ability to manage risk. One of the most effective ways to manage risk is to add buffers to your project schedule. A buffer is an extra amount of time added to a task or a series of tasks in order to provide a cushion against unexpected delays or problems. By adding buffers to your project schedule, you can help ensure that your project stays on track and on budget, even if unexpected issues arise.

Here are some tips for adding buffers as a project manager:

  1. Identify potential risks

The first step in adding buffers to your project schedule is to identify potential risks. This could include anything from unexpected technical issues to delays in receiving materials or resources. You should work closely with your team to identify potential risks and create a plan for how to manage them.

  1. Determine the size of the buffer

Once you have identified potential risks, you should determine the size of the buffer needed to manage those risks. The size of the buffer will depend on the severity of the risk and the amount of time required to address it. For example, if there is a risk that a critical resource will not be available on time, you may need to add a larger buffer to ensure that the project can proceed without delay.

  1. Add the buffer to your project schedule

Once you have determined the size of the buffer, you can add it to your project schedule. This can be done by adding additional time to specific tasks or by creating separate buffer tasks that are added to the schedule. Be sure to clearly communicate the purpose of the buffer to your team and stakeholders, and include it in any status reports or updates.

  1. Monitor the buffer

As with any aspect of your project schedule, it is important to monitor the buffer and adjust as necessary. If a risk does not materialize, you may be able to reduce the size of the buffer or remove it altogether. On the other hand, if a risk does occur, you may need to adjust the size of the buffer or take additional action to manage the risk.

Benefits of adding buffers

Adding buffers to your project schedule can provide a number of benefits, including:

  1. Increased flexibility: By adding buffers, you can create more flexibility in your project schedule, which can help you manage unexpected delays or issues.
  2. Improved risk management: Adding buffers can help you manage risks more effectively by providing a cushion against unexpected issues.
  3. Better communication: By clearly communicating the purpose of the buffer to your team and stakeholders, you can help ensure that everyone is on the same page and understands the potential risks and their impact on the project schedule.

In conclusion, adding buffers to your project schedule can be an effective way to manage risk and ensure that your project stays on track and on budget. By following these tips and best practices, you can help ensure that your project is successful and that you are able to deliver high-quality results on time and within budget.

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