What They Need Not What They Ask For.

[ProModeler]

The answer to this prolly depends on whether you're a freelancer or have internal customers. And let me know if this question is misplaced, but I figure everyone has faced this problem when they're forced to manage people. I'm not a developer, but I do work with outsourced (onshore) dev teams - and I'm always trying to make their job easier.

One of the biggest problems I face when I'm on a project is giving my customers what they need - not what they ask for. And on the other side, I'm a terrible customer because I never know what I want until I see it.

So how are you handling this? Most folks I know are going agile, but it doesn't always solve the "big picture" question and where I'm going to take the project

Love to hear your thoughts and any sources of info you can provide.

[vectoreyes]

I recommend for you to get some info on IT Project Management. You can find tons of books and articles on this subject.

Before I used to handle projects on the go, "agile", but if the projects you are working are increasing in complexity, you will find that it's impossible to adapt. I had to experience this on the hard way, after the project failed resulting in loss of money on both sides.

I have learned the about the danger of "scrape scope" by fully experiencing it. Since then (that was back in 2005), I always work under the rules of IT Project Management, it makes my life easier.

[bluestartech]

It is always a good idea to draw up an initial requiremnets document, so each party knows what they are getting for their money..

[Kor]

The lack of a firm, detailed contract, based on a comprehensive document of terms of supply, will always bring troubles. You should spend a little more time with the client before starting the project, in order to define precisely which are his needs, and which are your needs.

Of course, the client will always ask later for more, but if you put that piece of paper before his eyes you may either continue your work as initially agreed or you will get extra time and money following the specifications of that well indited contract.

Well, if "the client" is your own boss :rolleyes: ... that makes things a little bit tougher. Yet even in this situation there is a job contract to be followed, well... sort of :D

[Reli4nt]

"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."

All that goes away if you communicate it to the client before the project starts and the contract is drawn up. Otherwise, as soon as you become aware of something they need being different from what they seem to want then you need to discuss it with them immediately.

If they choose to disregard your advice remember they have every right to do so. It is their money, and their business and you should never be making their decisions for them no matter what your intentions.