The project schedule was probably drafted by sales or an account manager. Then it was handed off to the project manager. It was then moulded into the very detailed schedule that the project is now being managed against. There may have been some unreasonable deadlines that either were overlooked or just not changeable. The project manager and team knew they were unreasonable. The deadline, however, was mandated by something beyond their control – possibly the customer, an industry requirement, or senior management. Sometimes change orders, pressure from above, or misunderstood requirements leave you with a project schedule that’s no longer doable. If it’s not adjusted, then it’s going to move further and further off track. Talk to your project sponsor about increasing the people that are available for the project. Adding new individuals will increase the cost, but will help you hit the deadline specified. Again, ensure you make the appropriate adjustments to the budget forecast. Perhaps the people assigned to the project are lacking some key skills. Meet with the individuals that are responsible for the slipping tasks. See where they stand on this:
• Do they need help?
• Do they need different tools to complete their work?
• Do you need to bring in a different key person?
You may need to go to their direct supervisor to get the full answer. But you must take swift action.
If you need to replace people, then the budget will likely take a hit as the new people get up to speed. Ensure you make the appropriate adjustments to the budget forecast.