Episode 21: Key Priorities for Project Managers to Achieve Effective Service Delivery Artwork

Project Zero

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Project Zero is a podcast for project managers — and the PM-curious — who want more than frameworks and certifications. Each episode features a project leader, highlighting first projects and the pivotal lessons that shaped their approach to leadership, collaboration, and delivery.

From unexpected missteps to breakthrough moments, these conversations reveal what it really takes to grow into a confident, competent project manager. It’s honest, insightful, and designed to help you lead better — whether you're managing your first task or your hundredth milestone.

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Project Zero

Episode 21: Key Priorities for Project Managers to Achieve Effective Service Delivery

October 23, 2025 • Alex Tuck

This discussion focuses on key areas project managers should prioritize for effective service delivery in small businesses or departments. Emphasis is placed on the importance of comprehensive communication plans, the cadence of communication methods, and ensuring stakeholders are well-informed and engaged throughout the project. The conversation also addresses practical approaches to organizing project documentation, transitioning projects into operations, creating project plans using methodologies like waterfall and agile, and managing risks and issues. The panel also discusses negotiation and escalation tactics to foster better teamwork and adherence to project goals.

00:00 Introduction to Project Management Focus Areas

00:20 Importance of Communication in Project Management

01:14 Effective Communication Strategies

03:43 Live Meetings vs. Asynchronous Communication

06:17 Organizing Project Artifacts

11:56 Building a Project Plan

21:41 Risk and Issue Management

28:38 Assessing Project Risks and Their Impact

29:45 Documenting and Tracking Decisions

30:58 Simplifying Risk Management Processes

31:45 Leveraging AI for Decision Tracking

32:09 Client Communication and Conflict Resolution