How to decide which project to work on first
When you have a lot of projects on your to-do list, it can be difficult to decide which ones to work on first. There are a number of ways you can choose to prioritize them, and those properties can change on a daily (if not hourly) basis, so it’s important to revisit your project list (and review your priorities) on a regular basis.
Here are four ways you can decide which projects to work on first…
The PDQ Project
Is there a project that you can complete Pretty Darn Quick? A quick win not only allows you to cross a completed project off your list, but to also get an early success that can prove helpful in gaining support of others for future projects. The win also helps you build-up positive attitude and forward momentum that will carry you into the next project.
The Profitable Project
Will a project on your list provide a monetary gain for you or your company? If one of your projects has the potential to increase earnings for your company (a new product roll out, a streamlined process that saves time/money) then it should be considered a high priority. The same goes for a project whose completion might count positively toward your annual review or bonus goals.
The Personal Development Project
Which project on your list might require you to sharpen an existing skill or to attain new knowledge? There is value in completing any task on your list (otherwise, why is it on your list at all?), but there is a huge benefit to improving your skillset by regularly putting yourself in a position where you are required to master something new. Not only does increasing your knowledge add value to you as an employee within your company, it increases your value in the marketplace should you decide to explore opportunities elsewhere.
The Personal Passion Project
Does a project on your list appeal to you on a personal level? Is there something that allows you to display a personal strength or talent. Would its success benefit a charity you support? A project like this provides its own motivation to complete and instills you with a sense of purpose and pride. Definitely worth considering as a top priority.
Did this list prompt some other ideas for project prioritization?
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Photo courtesy of Nicu Buculei on Flickr via Creative Commons License (CC BY-SA 2.0)
