Office Projects Made FUN...well, as fun as possible!
Every employee knows that not all office projects are prestigious, inspiring tasks that are exciting to be a part of. Sometimes they are just average, dare I say boring, projects that need to get done. When your need project needs to be assigned and no one is chopping at the bit to volunteer for it try this...pick group or pair employees together for the projects and follow the outline below.
SET UP
Have employees get into groups or partners and take on the project together. Set a minimal amount or requirements and supervision, only involve yourself where absolutely necessary. This will allow the group to truly own the project as their own, motivate them, and inspire them to be creative.
ACTION
The group or pair can divide up the project between them if applicable. The project team should schedule regular meetings monthly, weekly, bi-weekly; whatever timeline fits best to finish the project by the deadline. Encourage employees to think outside the box as to when or where they meet. Often times after hours and/or offsite locations can inspire and motivate employees to work better/faster/diligently. Allow the team to develop a plan of attack for the project as they see best fit, even if it may be a little outside of standard operation procedures. Often times project teams will create a new, more efficient or effective procedure or policy for the project that can be adopted department or company wide.
Since you will not be involved in the planning of the project, ask the project team submit their plan outlining crucial details, responsibilities, and schedule. Employees should continue to meet as well as track one another’s progress, help each other work through any issues that may arise, and/or make any necessary alterations to the plan, filling you in on important updates.
RESULTSOnce the project has been successful complete ask employees to give a brief presentation on the results or outcome of the project to the entire staff, even if a presentation is not indicative of the project. The presentation will give the employees involved in the project an opportunity to share with their peers how they tackled the project, what they learned from the process, as well as any noteworthy accomplishments. The presentation may will validate the work and effort the team put into the project as well as inspire other staff members to volunteer for future projects.
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