Primer: Managing Expectations
There's a world of difference between high expectations and unrealistic expectations. Expectations become unrealistic when they exceed the total output capabilities of a project at its most successful, whether the project is initiated or not. Realistic expectations adhere to reason, available resources and norms.
Crib Notes:
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There are realistic and unrealistic expectations.
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The project manager manages stakeholder expectations.
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Proper expectation management requires soft skills.
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Realistic expectations are cooperative.
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Unrealistic expectations are unproductive.
Source: PMBOK GUIDE 7th Edition, Section 2.1.1.4
Resources Definition
Expectations can be defined as the belief and assumptions about the performance, quality or outcome of a project - Interpreted PMBOK GUIDE 7th Ed.
What types of expectations are there? There two types of expectations; realistic and unrealistic. A stakeholder may have realistic or unrealistic expectations about any portion of a project. The project manager manages expectations by engaging stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle. Managing expectations requires the application of soft skills. Communications with stakeholders can take place verbally or in writing and can be either formal or informal.
Unrealistic and Realistic Project Expectations
Here are some examples of project expectations:
Project Schedule
Realistic
An influential stakeholder expects that a project milestone will be achieved earlier than originally planned and fully supports providing additional resources to meet the deadline.
Project Funding
Unrealistic
The sponsor expects that 3 new features will be added to the project, however, refuses to agree to ask the client to cover the cost of development of the additional features as stated by contract.
Project Stakholder
Realistic
A high power, high interest stakeholder expects that the project manager will be available to answer critical project inquiries on a 24/7 basis with a same day response window.
Project Vendor
Unrealistic
A low power, low interest vendor holds high expectations that he will be given greater priority over a high power, high interest vendor in terms of material and schedule flexibility, should a need arise.