Navigating Project Success: Understanding Starters, Maintainers, and Closer

Over the course of my 25-year project management career, I’ve had the opportunity to work with various organizations, honing my skills and expertise along the way. From my role as a Project Remediator for PwC in the Middle East to my current position as Chief Project Officer at projectoffice.com, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of having the right project manager to lead a team and ensure project success. While we are not specifically focused on Agile Project Management, our comprehensive approach ensures that all project methodologies are effectively addressed.

In this article, I’d like to share my insights on the three types of project managers – Starters, Maintainers, and Closers – and offer advice on when to resource them for a project. I will also address the common misconception that switching project managers can hinder a project’s progress.

1. 1. Starters: The Visionaries Starters are the project managers who excel in the initial stages of a project. They possess exceptional vision and can conceptualize a project from scratch. Starters are adept at gathering requirements, setting up project goals, and creating a solid project plan. These project managers are best resourced during the inception and planning phases of a project when their skills in setting a strong foundation and generating enthusiasm among the team can be put to good use.
   2. Maintainers: The Stabilizers Maintainers are the project managers who thrive in the execution and monitoring phases of a project. They are known for their ability to keep projects on track and ensure a smooth workflow. Maintainers excel at managing resources, mitigating risks, and handling issues that may arise during the project’s lifecycle. They are best resourced during the execution phase when their expertise in maintaining stability and delivering consistent results is most valuable.
   3. Closers: The Finishers Closers are the project managers who specialize in bringing projects to a successful conclusion. They excel at tying up loose ends, conducting final reviews, and ensuring that all project deliverables are met. Closers have a keen eye for detail and are adept at handling last-minute issues and managing stakeholder expectations. These project managers are best resourced during the closing phase of a project when their skills in wrapping up projects and delivering a successful outcome are most crucial.

Switching Project Managers: A Matter of Adaptability

It’s a common misconception that switching project managers can negatively impact a project. The reality is that, as long as the project’s targets and benefits are being achieved, switching project managers should not pose a problem. In fact, it can sometimes be advantageous to change project managers to match the current project phase and capitalize on their unique skill sets.

In conclusion, understanding the strengths of the different types of project managers – Starters, Maintainers, and Closers – can help organizations assign the right person to lead a project at the appropriate stage. This ensures that the project is managed effectively and that the desired outcomes are achieved. When considering a Project Management Software comparison, remember that choosing the right tool can also facilitate smoother transitions between project managers. And remember, don’t be afraid to switch project managers if it aligns with the project’s goals and objectives – adaptability is key to project success.