A key aspect of project management is organising tasks for people and ensuring they are delivered on track according to schedule. It’s important to help the people in your project team so that the tasks you assign are able to be achieved. it’s prudent, therefore, to be ready beforehand to work through issues should they arise.

Anyone who’s worked with teams long enough will recognise a point where a task becomes a problem for some reason. The crux of the matter is something needs to be done to move things forward and accomplish the task.

You might be surprised, but there are only 4 reasons why someone ‘can’t do it’, but don’t worry, there are also 4 solutions.

1. They can’t actually do it…

Example: The equipment is too heavy to install, or they are physically unable.
Solution: Facilitate the gap.
→ Put more hands on it, and ask someone to help them.

2. They won’t do it…

Example: They don’t like using an annoying ordering system.
Solution: Review the problem together.
→ Arrange training, or share the task with another person.

3. They’ve not been told it’s a problem…

Example: They didn’t do something, but are oblivious of the effect.
Solution: Explain the consequence.
→ Illustrate the impact, and help them get on the right path.

4. They’re not clear on expectations…

Example: They were unsure and didn’t act. (who, when, why, how)
Solution: Communicate requirements properly.
→ Explain the task properly in a concise fashion (see: S.M.A.R.T)

Do you agree? or can you think of a reason outside these categories?

Knowing the 4 categories of why someone ‘can’t do it’, and being prepared to enact the solution or take the appropriate steps before-hand, helps teams achieve their project tasks, which help keep the schedule on track and your project goals on target.