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The cursed legacy of Microsoft Project

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StrategyDriven Project Management Article |Project management tool|The cursed legacy of Microsoft ProjectThe idea of having a project management tool completely separated from your processes and task management is, or should be, a thing of the past. For some time now we’ve entered an era of having everything connected and if you’re still on the sidelines, this article is for you.

There are still thousands of companies using MS Project and other, similar tools for their project planning. I blame MSP for the current gap in the understanding of how important it is to connect both project and processes worlds. MSP never expanded beyond its own environment and very few people realized the missed potential. If you’re one of them, imagine this:

  • every task you plan can be immediately assigned to a person, who is notified about this,
  • the task assignee can start working on the task and change its status, thanks to which you get immediate info about the current status of all the tasks in your WBS,
  • the assignee can also report time spent on the task so that you also get instant and accurate info about the task’s progress,
  • all the data can be aggregated and reported,
  • everyone can have access to the project plan,
  • every member of the project team has a personal dashboard with all the upcoming tasks clearly listed.

Does that sound like a fantasy? Of course not! It’s the minimum you should have with the current market trends.

Jira – the most popular tool for handling your processes

Out of many tools available on the market, Jira is the one we recommend the most. With its cloud instance available within just a few clicks it’s probably the easiest one to start with. It’s really a matter of minutes and you can start creating your first Epics, User stories, Tasks, Sub-tasks, or whatever you need.

Jira also has very robust administration capabilities. It’s well designed with complexity on demand built into the tool. You can restrict data access, manage roles for people, group them and make sure that your data is secured on several different levels.

Talking about data, you also can create your own issue types, statuses, workflows, link types, and many more. When it comes to flexibility and accommodating your different needs, Jira is like no other. It’s definitely one of its strongest sides.

But pure Jira is just the beginning. For specific needs and broader applications of its functionalities, Jira also offers thousands of Apps that can be added to your core system. Those Apps allow you to extend the capabilities of Jira even further.

Some of these Apps allow you to extend your project management capabilities. We at Genius Gecko are experts in implementing project management solutions in Jira. We constantly analyze all the tools in this area, so that you don’t have to. We also have our favorites when it comes to creating reliable project management solutions.


BigPicture – a PPM solution for Agile, Waterfall, and Hybrid approaches

BigPicture has been available in Jira for many years now and it’s grown into the best tool out there.

It offers a unique way of organizing your projects into programs and portfolios with Boxes, which are its building blocks. Interestingly, you can also use Boxes to break projects into smaller pieces, like Program Increments, Iterations, Sprints, Teams, Phases, Quarters, Months, or whatever you may need.

If you’re working with a waterfall approach, BigPicture has a built-in Gantt chart that has you covered. It also comes with all of the important features like milestones, markers, data aggregation, data grouping, dependencies, unlimited hierarchy, what-if scenarios, and more.

If you’re agile, BigPicture has you covered too. It has a super-functional Board module which allows you to plan your sprints ahead of time for multiple teams at the same time, and later on of course also follow the progress of work, all in real-time.

And here is the best one – if you’re a Hybrid, somewhere in between Agile and Waterfall, BigPicture has you covered as well. It has several features that allow you to connect both worlds and still manage your projects in an effective and user-friendly way (and I mean both project teams and stakeholders).

That’s not all at all, though. BigPicture has a lot more to offer. Because it’s built on top of Jira, it’s reusing all the data that Jira has. Everything you’ll be planning in BigPicture either comes from Jira or will go to Jira (when you create it). This is exactly where the big difference lies. You no longer have a tool for just doing your project planning, you have a tool that seamlessly connects your projects with project teams, stakeholders, project sponsors, dev-ops, IT, marketing, sales, and anyone else involved. All the important information is in one place. You can always revisit it, see all the changes, and notify people when something important happens, or when a new task for John has been added.

You can also manage your resources through BigPicture, and make sure that you have enough people for the job, that they are not overbooked, that they have appropriate skills, and that their workload plans and holidays are taken into account.

You’ll also be able to easily manage risks for your project, create objectives and goals for everyone to follow, and build your own reports.

BigPicture training – a sure way to successful implementation

BigPicture is an amazing tool and it deserves to be looked after. We’ve been working with it from the beginning and based on our experience we can tell that if you want to get the most out of it, make it work seamlessly with your Jira environment, make sure that all the reports are doable, and climb to that next level of project management, it makes sense to have someone help you achieve it.

You’ll be able to:

  • get clarity on your goals,
  • ensure the proper flow of information,
  • make your teams more engaged,
  • manage your resources with short and long-term planning,
  • manage your project risks,
  • build informative and easy-to-read reports,
  • track time for your project items,
  • save time thanks to automation and templates.

We currently have almost 70 companies that we’ve successfully trained or guided through the implementation of BigPicture and we’re constantly getting new prospects interested in working together.

If you want to learn more about our awesome BigPicture training, or:

  • managing projects in Jira environment and have us help you find the best tool for your needs,
  • implementing processes and tools in Jira,
  • working with other PM tools like Structure, Advanced Roadmaps, or any other Jira App

Reach out to us and let’s have a chat!

Be extraordinary!

Tom Pabich

SEO of Genius Gecko

3 Ways To Optimize Your Marketing

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StrategyDriven Marketing and Sales Article |Optimize your marketing|3 Ways To Optimize Your MarketingEvery business owner knows they need to advertise their company to develop leads and conversions. Without it, you mightn’t see as much revenue as your business needs to survive. That doesn’t mean advertising for the sake of it.

You’ll need to do it the right way, which means knowing how to optimize your marketing. As simple as that sounds, it can be difficult to put into practice. Where do you even start?

Certain strategies come highly recommended, as they’ll ensure your marketing spend works for you rather than being a waste of money. Once you’ve implemented them, you should see more leads and conversions, generating a large return on investment.

How To Optimize Your Marketing: 3 Practical Strategies

1. Understand Your Target Audience

You can’t start advertising to people without understanding them. You’ll need to know as much as possible about your target market as possible. Their interests, demographics, pain points, and more will all be significant aspects of this.
If you don’t know these, you won’t be able to develop a marketing strategy that effectively captures their attention and turns them into customers. You’ll need to perform extensive market research to get this information.

Once you do, you can more carefully craft a marketing strategy that converts them into paying customers.


2. Outsource

Marketing can be a time-consuming and often confusing process. Figuring out how to optimize your marketing can seem impossible because of that. Why not use an expert to do it for you?

By outsourcing to an experiential marketing agency or similar company, you can do exactly that. Taking this approach not only gives you access to industry expertise, but can be more affordable than hiring a marketing employee.

Once you’re outsourcing, you’ll see a lower marketing investment while increasing the conversions and revenues you generate. It also takes the effort out of your hands, letting you focus on other areas of your business.

3. Focus On Conversions

It’s natural to focus on a few key performance indicators once you’ve started marketing your business. One of the more notable of these is the leads that your strategies generate. It’s not the most important KPI to focus on, however,
Instead, you’ll need to focus on conversions. These are the sales that your marketing strategies lead to. While leads play into these, you’ll have far more of these than conversions. Your conversions directly impact your revenues, making them more worth focusing on.

Be sure to track them and determine which strategies and adjustments can improve them.

How To Optimize Your Marketing: Wrapping Up

As simple as figuring out how to optimize your marketing sounds, it can be difficult to put into practice. By focusing on conversions, understanding your target audience, and even outsourcing key areas, you can get this done.
Once you do, your marketing spend will be better spent, and you’ll see a better return on investment and more customers buying from you. While this seems like a lot of time and effort will be needed, it’ll be more than worth the hassle.

6 Characteristics of an Effective HR Manager

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StrategyDriven Professional Development Article |HR Manager|6 Characteristics of an Effective HR ManagerHR management is a strategic and coherent approach to managing an organization’s most valuable assets – its people. In general, the tasks of HR managers include recruiting, training and development, employee relations, and benefits administration.

To become an effective HR manager, it is vital to combine hard and soft skills. Hard skills can be quantified, such as experience in HR management. In contrast, soft skills, such as communication and people skills, are more challenging to measure but no less important. In this article, you will learn why possessing these characteristics is important to the role they play in an organization. The most successful HR managers share certain qualities and characteristics that allow them to excel in their roles. Here are 6 of them:

Strategic thinkers

To be effective, HR managers must be strategic thinkers, able to see the big picture and make decisions that will positively impact the entire organization. They must be able to develop and implement programs that attract and retain the best talent while also ensuring that all employees are productive and engaged. In addition, HR managers must be adept at handling employee conflict and managing change. With so much on their plate, it’s no wonder that HR managers are some of the most essential members of any organization.

Innovative

The job of an HR manager is constantly changing, so they must be innovative in their thinking and approach. They must be able to come up with new ideas that will improve the employee experience while also being open to trying new things and taking risks.
One of the latest trends in the HR industry is the use of recruitment technology. Some software programs involve a candidate tracking system which can help the HR team to keep track of job applicants and their progress through the recruitment process. With this innovation, finding and hiring the best candidates for the job has become more accessible.

Excellent communicators

Excellent communication skills are critical for HR professionals. They need to be able to clearly and concisely convey information to employees, as well as understand and interpret the communication of others.
In addition, they must be able to build strong relationships with employees. This requires effectively connecting with people from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Good communication skills allow them to build trust and respect, which are essential for maintaining a positive work environment. Excellent communication skills are vital for any HR manager who wants to be successful in their role.


Strong leaders

HR professionals plan, direct, and coordinate the administrative functions of an organization. They oversee the hiring and training of new employees, and they also work to improve the morale and performance of existing staff.
To be successful, they must be able to think strategically, handle multiple tasks simultaneously, and be excellent communicators. They must also possess a deep understanding of labor laws and employee benefits. Additionally, they must be able to build relationships with other departments within an organization to create a cohesive work environment.

Good at problem-solving

From handling employee disputes to creating company-wide policies, HR managers are responsible for solving many problems. And while it may not be the most glamorous job, there’s no denying that they are good at what they do. After all, solving problems is literally their job description. But what makes them good at their job?

In addition to having strong people skills and an ability to think creatively, HR managers must stay calm under pressure and quickly make decisions. With so much on their plate, it’s no wonder they are some of the most sought-after professionals in the business world.

Detail-oriented

HR managers are typically detail-oriented individuals. This means that they have a keen eye for detail and can pick up on even the smallest details. This attention to detail is vital in HR because it allows managers to identify potential issues and investigate them further. Being detail-oriented also will enable them to keep track of employee records and performance data. This data can be used to identify trends and make decisions about training and development. Ultimately, being detail-oriented is an essential skill for them as it helps them to be more effective in their roles.

The bottom line

Undoubtedly, HR professionals play a vital role in any organization. From candidate tracking to employee relations, they are responsible for various tasks. And while the job may not be easy, it is rewarding. So if you’re thinking about a career in HR, make sure you have the right skills and qualities. With the right mix of skills and qualities, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an effective HR manager.

10 Positive Things You’ll Experience Working In A Care Setting

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StrategyDriven Professional Development Article |Working in a care setting|10 Positive Things You'll Experience Working In A Care SettingWorking in a care setting doesn’t always attract positive news stories. Stories often focus on failings in care, tough working conditions, and overworked staff. So where are all the positive stories?

You can experience many rewards working in a care setting. For those who want to work with people and provide them with care services, it can be one of the most rewarding jobs out there. It’s time to shine a light on the upside of working in care and discover all the things that people love about it.

Check out these 10 positive things you’ll experience working in a care setting.

1. It’s a wonderful job if you like people

Working in a care setting is a very people-focused role. If you love working with people, then working in care can be very rewarding. Depending on the setting you choose, you could find yourself working with children, older people, vulnerable people, and families.

From the people you care for to the people you work with, you’ve got the opportunity to build some excellent relationships and show off your people skills.

2. There’s a big sense of family

When you work in a care setting, you’ll work very closely with the same people day-in, day-out. You’ll get to know people very well, helping to create a sense of family.

It can be all hands on deck with care settings, as you all help each other to deliver the best possible service to the people under your care. Working together to create a comfortable and happy environment can make a facility feel like home, helping to make the people you care for feel at ease.

3. There are a lot of challenging and fulfilling roles in care

There are many challenges that come with working in care, making it more fast-paced than you might’ve imagined. There is a range of roles you can undertake that can build on your previous experience, or even help you learn entirely new skills.

Explore retirement home jobs to see the types of roles that are out there. From nursing roles to administration, there are a lot of different paths you can take working in care. There are also a lot of opportunities to progress, giving you the chance to develop your career either in the care industry, or elsewhere.

4. You’ll meet some incredible personalities

When you work with people every day, you’ll get to meet some incredible personalities. Older people especially have some fantastic stories, and there’s a lot you can learn from them too. Knowing you’re making a difference in someone’s life can feel incredible, giving you the job satisfaction that a lot of people don’t get to experience.

Working in care gives you the chance to meet people you might never have met before, making the job interesting and full of memorable moments.


5. Carers come from all kinds of backgrounds

There are all kinds of people working in care settings. From volunteers to those who have changed careers, you will come across a lot of different people working in care roles.

What brings many people together in this field is the desire to help people. If you’re looking for a job that makes a difference, then a care role meets the brief. You could try volunteering your time at first to see if it’s the right fit for you, before applying for roles that interest you.

6. No two days are the same

One of the things you’ll discover about working in care is that no two days are the same. There are ups and downs, but it’s a job that will certainly keep you on your toes!

There aren’t many jobs that you’ll go to not knowing what’s going to happen that day, that’s for sure.

7. You can enjoy a great work/life balance

Working in industries like healthcare can come with a reputation for poor work/life balance. Working shifts can be difficult, especially when they can be unpredictable. Working in a care setting can provide a very different experience, helping you achieve a better work/life balance. Many care roles offer set shift times, while some facilities may be daytime only, helping you avoid night shifts.

8. You get to make a difference

People who work in care make a difference every day. Putting a smile on somebody’s face, or making them feel more comfortable can mean the world to someone, even if it takes the smallest effort on your part. Care workers have a vital role to play, and knowing you’ve made a difference can make every bit of hard work worth it.

9. It can help bring out the best in you

A lot of people feel lost in their careers. They may feel unfulfilled or unrewarded, which can lead to low morale. If this sounds like you, perhaps your skills aren’t being as used as they should, and moving to a more suitable role could be just what you need to shake things up.

If you’re wondering if a career in healthcare or care is right for you, perhaps it’s time to take a chance. Caring for other people gives you the chance to shine, so a switch to a care role may just bring out the best in you.

10. It could be the best decision you’ll ever make

If you’ve got people skills and a passion for helping others, a career in caring could be the perfect choice for you. It’s never too late to start, and you never know, it could just be the best decision you’ll ever make.

There are a lot of different types of healthcare roles, working in a variety of settings. It’s a job that may not always get the best press, but for those on the inside, it can be one of the most rewarding and fulfilling jobs in the world.

How to Enhance the Decision-Making Skills of Managers

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StrategyDriven Decision-Making Article | How to Enhance the Decision-Making Skills of ManagersBuilding a successful business requires the ability to make decisions. It is imperative for entrepreneurs to make the right decisions and put them into action effectively.

As humans, we have the privilege of being able to learn and enhance our decision-making skills.

You will find a list of skills you will need to develop in order to become a more effective manager and leader in this guide.

What Can You Do to Make Better Decisions?

Management decisions have a direct impact on everyday business. Making the correct decisions requires using the most relevant information and delivering the intended results. In any situation, whether decisions affect one person or a whole organization, a step-by-step framework ensures good results.

Below are some steps to consider taking to enhance your decision-making skills within the workplace:

  • Find the Problem: Don’t forget to ask questions, get feedback from key players, and consider all angles. If you thoroughly understand the scenario, you will be in a better position to make an informed decision.
  • Re-Examine the Data: Make sure you collect as many applicable details as possible. A team member familiar with the work area should be assigned data-gathering tasks whenever you’re considering a bigger decision.
  • Examine Each Choice: Choose the path that offers the best chance of success after weighing the pros and cons of various options.
  • Pick a Plan of Action: Decide on the overall best course of action.
  • Execute Your Plan: Develop a clear, specific, and actionable plan. Provide employees with information and encourage them to go forward with the plan.
  • Check Your Final Results: You can learn from every course of action you take. Take note of your results to identify areas where your decisions need to be improved. Is the data you have accurate? Is each option being considered or recognized? How well do you communicate with your employees?
  • Stay Up to Date With Plans: Reorient your course of action by making the necessary changes. Keeping track of the things that worked and what didn’t will enable you to make better decisions in the future.

Decision-Making Skills for Effective Leadership

The below skills will enhance your ability to make the best decisions to drive personal and professional development, growth, and success:

  • Identifying Problems: Making decisions requires the ability to recognize problems and find solutions. Problem-solving skills allow you to remain calm under pressure and find the best possible solutions.
  • Processing Data: Assimilate the information by performing your own analysis or delegating the task to the corresponding employees. It is also important to know what type of data you require.
  • Managing Your Time: It is necessary to make certain decisions quickly. The ability to make informed decisions within the required timeframe is essential for success.
  • Communicating Effectively: Decisions must be communicated clearly and effectively. It is possible to stay up to date on project progress, work processes, and employee performance by actively listening. When you need to make a quick decision, each conversation becomes information.
  • Maintaining Humility: Sometimes it’s about acknowledging that another employee’s solution is better than yours. Making the right choice is essential, regardless of who developed the solution.
  • <strong”>Practicing Mediation: /strong> Achieving fairness, assessing everyone’s viewpoint, and diffusing conflict are crucial.
  • Planning: There are often unexpected pitfalls associated with business decisions. Having a good plan allows your team to avoid unforeseen problems.
  • Ongoing Training for Leadership Best Practices: The best decisions are useless unless they are shared with others. Leading effectively is dependent on a leader’s ability to convince others of the rightness of their decisions.

What You Need to Know About Decision Making

A business’s success depends on its ability to make decisions. Making decisions is most effective when evidence is interpreted in conjunction with previous experience. Take advantage of decision-making opportunities in your business and learn from your decisions. As you gain experience, you will become more effective and comfortable making decisions.

What are Some Ways that You Can Encourage Ethical Decision-Making?

Those who make ethical decisions consider their company’s bottom line as well as their community’s impact. It is encouraged that employees do the same. It is not only beneficial to your business to make ethical decisions, but also to the community as a whole.

One way to achieve better decision-making skills in the workplace is to invest in executive coaching for professionals.