[book review]
There’s a certain consistency to projects that succeed—they finish on time, within budget, and deliver what they promised. But just as consistently, there’s a formula to failure. The good news? The recipe for success (or failure) isn’t as mysterious as it seems.
Bent Flyvbjerg and Dan Gardner’s How Big Things Get Done lays it all out. Whether you’re trying to launch a new business, lead a complex initiative, or simply tackle a personal project, this book offers a blueprint for understanding how to get it right. Let’s break down what they’ve found that you should know too.
1. The Cornerstones: Leadership, Team, and Purpose
Start with this: the best projects—big or small—have a leader who really knows what they’re doing. Not just someone with the right title, but someone with actual expertise. This isn’t about ego—when the stakes are high, you want someone in lead who can navigate the storms. If you don’t have that, you better make sure you’ve got a stellar team to cover that up.
And if you’re a solo project manager (or just an individual chasing your dreams)? Then you are that team, which means self-awareness is key. Know your strengths and weaknesses and seek help when necessary.
And this leads to the second part: having a clear purpose. Whether you’re working on a major business initiative or a personal side project, understanding the “why” behind what you’re doing is crucial. It’s the glue that holds everything together. Without a clear purpose, your project risks becoming a series of disconnected tasks. With it instead, those tasks turn into meaningful steps toward a goal that matters to you.
2. Execution: Planning, Modularity, and Focus
Execution is where the rubber meets the road (does that even makes sense?), and this is true whether you’re managing a multi-million-dollar project or just trying to redecorate your living room. It all starts with a plan. A solid plan isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s your roadmap to success. But beware of getting lost in over-planning. The key is to plan just enough so that you can act decisively and adapt quickly.
Next, break. it. down. No matter the scale, projects can feel overwhelming. The solution? Modularity. By tackling your project in smaller, manageable pieces, you maintain momentum and reduce the risk of getting stuck. For a large project, this might mean breaking down phases into individual tasks. For a smaller one, it might be as simple as focusing on one room at a time in that redecorating project, for example.
And above all, stay focused on what matters most. Every project has its core elements—the things that truly move the needle. Identify these and keep them at the forefront. It’s easy to get sidetracked by details that don’t really matter, but the best projects stay laser-focused on their key objectives.
3. The Bigger Picture: Stakeholders, Impact, and Self-Reflection
Projects don’t exist in a vacuum, even the small ones. They’re influenced by, and in turn, influence the world around them. That’s why managing your stakeholders—whether that’s your boss, your client, or even your family—is crucial. Keep them informed, engaged, and on your side. It’s not just about avoiding conflict; it’s about building the support you need to succeed.
But it’s not just about people. In today’s world, the impact of your project, especially its environmental impact, can’t be ignored. Every project, no matter how small, has the potential to make a positive difference. Even if you’re just redoing your backyard, consider how you can incorporate sustainable practices. Every little bit helps and you know it.
Lastly, remember that the biggest risk to any project might be you. Are you sticking to the plan, or are you taking unnecessary shortcuts? Regular self-reflection is crucial. Ask yourself if you’re following the principles that have been proven to work. Are you letting your ego, impatience, or complacency lead you? Keep yourself in check, because sometimes the hardest part of a project is staying disciplined, especially when you’re the only one holding yourself accountable.
Conclusion: The Power of Getting It Right
How Big Things Get Done isn’t just a book for project managers or CEOs. It’s for anyone who wants to achieve something significant, no matter the scale. It’s about understanding that success isn’t just about doing things; it’s about doing the right things in the right way. From the leader at the top to the smallest task on your list, from the plan on paper to the execution in the real world, every part matters. The question is, are you ready to do what it takes to get it right? If you are, this book might just be your best guide to start with.
