Managing team projects (online)

Workshop review

This participatory workshop on team project management by Sandra Lustig encouraged us to consider all the stages necessary in a translation or editing project, the potential pitfalls of managing such projects in a team environment, and possible solutions. After discussing the tasks in small breakout groups, Sandra walked us through some possible solutions. These included all the practical steps involved in a typical project: deciding if the job is suitable; gathering a team and assigning tasks; making the bid; coordinating and monitoring the project itself; communicating with the client; dealing with unexpected problems; and, finally, invoicing and getting paid.

Emphasis was placed on open, transparent communication among the team at all stages so that everyone is on the same page and knows what is expected of them, with no unpleasant surprises later on. This is particularly important when creating a team and preparing the bid to ensure that everybody has a chance to give their input and opinions, or even to drop out before the project or bid begins.

Some of the workshop’s takeaways for me included the idea of one person channelling the communication with the client to avoid confusion, unless there are specific authors who can be designated their own translator or editor for swifter responses. Spreadsheets were also explained as a useful tool for allocating tasks (taking into account the team members’ preferences as far as possible) and keeping track of them.

With so many experienced professionals involved in the discussions, the workshop gave rise to some interesting suggestions to put into practice in future.

 
 
Review by Gary Smith. Collage prepared by Ruth Simpson.