Celebration as a project tool

WTF is probably the first thing that sprung into your mind, or maybe you are knotting your head because you’ve discovered this already. Celebration as a Project Tool.

None of the existing Project Methods is mentioning Celebration so why do I? Simply because it adds proven value to your Project Management toolbox and it works in all branches, countries, and in all types of projects.

We are used to marking the start of a project with a kickoff, the placement of the first brick or the first pole. So, the start of a project or program is covered and in some fields the marking of the end of a project is also clear, e.g. cutting the ribbon or baptizing a boat.

What happens in between? That is up to the Project Manager who is busy with scope, time, and budget. With solving problems, getting deliverables in, and stakeholder management. Busy, busy! No time or budget to celebrate… Then let’s be creative and find time and budget because celebrating is helping to keep project fatigue out of the picture, is helping to keep up the spirit, it bonds across different borders and across departments or project parts. It makes your project attractive. Every person wants to be part of success.

It doesn’t take much to get the celebration feeling started. Buy ice creams at the convenience store, minibars, or cakes (e.g. Stroopwafels) and present this on well-timed occasions to all involved. They are going to be pleasantly surprised and you’ll see your spin-off almost immediately. For big landmarks or deadlines, you’re serving bubbling (non-alcoholic) wine and beer in a meeting room or venue where invited guests will celebrate with you and your team. In all cases, you’re sure to take pictures and use this in your communication. It happened when we see it.