Having spent a significant amount of time on committees and leading organizations through restructuring and project management, I’ve come to recognize several factors as essential for success. Today, I share some of these with you.

1. Input from multiple stakeholders. Before any project gets off the ground, it is important to know who it will affect and to examine what possible effect changes may have—positive or negative. There’s sure to be concern, even among those who might want change. Moreover, these folks will have diverse interests, different goals and different expectations of the project’s outcomes. Maybe most importantly, they’ll have different ideas on how to achieve the desired outcomes. After examining the impact the project may have on various groups and individuals, it is in this area that input from multiple stakeholders is most valuable.  
2. Communication. We hear this over and over again: Keep the communication lines open, Clear lines of communication, Communication is key…And it’s so true! There’s no value in seeking input from others and attempting to understand another’s needs if you’re not going to a.) provide a mechanism for them to communicate their needs, wants and concerns, and b.) listen. The other idea we often hear is: Communication is a two-way street. This is true also! So as much as you may expect to receive input, you have to be willing to make clear project goals and direction. Let others know what you are thinking so that they can provide feedback. Also, encourage your team to play “Devil’s Advocate” – it can help provide a new perspective.
3. Leadership. This is the tie that binds it all together. As much as there must be input and clear lines of communication, there must be decision-makers. Consensus is wonderful and an obvious hope for any team project, but with multiple stakeholders it is often difficult to achieve. Without competent leadership, projects often fall victim to stalemate or indecision. It is necessary to have someone who can recognize ideas that the group shouldn’t move forward on – someone with the power to flip the “kill switch.” It is just as necessary to have effective leadership to help guide discussion and generate ideas.