We simply need to create connections. I often start all of my projects with what I call my “Getting Started Template.” What does it include?

Facts – What, When, Why, Who – What is driving this project? When does it start and end? Why is it needed? Who is impacted and affected? This is the part everyone expects.

But this is what surprises people…even if they are communication professionals. I ask for us to connect the dots.

What are the organization’s mission, vision, values? How does this project bring them to life?

Who needs to be involved? I want leadership at the table or at least involved through pre-project interviews…and receiving updates on our progress and findings.

What else is going on in the organization that may support or sabotage this initiative? Are there other initiatives going on at the same time that we can create connections with or could potentially get in the way of our success? Are there other surveys, pulses, focus groups we can piggy back off of?

So many organizations deliver projects that are siloed or exist in a vacuum. It’s no wonder that when launched it feels like we’re fighting against other departments or projects or seen as disconnected.

So much of the important work happens during the planning versus the delivery. If we’re competing internally with one another, we’re distracting ourselves and employees from the real focus on serving customers and standing out against real competitors.

What other questions should we be asking?