The following is a compilation of a series of tweets I did the week before Christmas and things you can do to get ready for a project that will start right after the holidays.

Yep, Xmas is this Sat. and people are taking off. During the holidays it is difficult to get a lot done with many people away so the goal is to get things lined up for a quick start in Jan.

• The first step is to set some mini milestones for the first two weeks after the holidays. Set dates for tasks such as the first draft plan.
• Review the project charter and make notes on it such as what scope items need more definition or which appear to be difficult.
• If you will need to meet with key SMEs or sponsors in early January try to schedule the meetings now so people know what to expect.
• Put together a list of people that will need to be interviewed or involved in the requirements phase.
• Another thing to do to be ready to start the project is put together a 2 week task plan so that you know what needs to get going right away
• If possible, go ahead and set up the project repository for documents now. This way it is out of the way and ready.
• Before everybody leaves schedule the project kickoff meeting and first two team meetings. This lets others plan their first 2 weeks also.
• Get the templates for the risk plan, issues log, communications plan etc into the repository and set up for the project.
• Look at the project charter and start to determine what resource roles you will need. This gives you a starting point when you return.
 

By doing the above before you take off for a well deserved holiday break you are giving yourself the peace of mind of knowing what you have to do when you get back. Enjoy!

Thanks for following me. I want to wish all of you a happy holiday season and very prosperous new year.