Method
Match methods to project characteristics

Match methods to project characteristics

Different types of work require different coordination approaches—choose what works, not what's familiar.

Projects vary tremendously in their fundamental characteristics—from linear infrastructure to repetitive high-rises to complex industrial facilities. These differences profoundly affect which coordination techniques will be most effective.

Rather than applying a standardised methodology across all work, effective projects select approaches based on the specific drivers of performance in each context:

  • Linear infrastructure benefits from location-based methods that visualise progression through space.
  • Repetitive work responds well to flow techniques that optimise trade sequences.
  • Complex facilities require detailed constraint management and interdependency mapping.

The most successful projects adapt coordination techniques to the work rather than forcing the work to fit a predetermined approach. This means selecting visualisation methods, meeting structures, and planning horizons based on what will most effectively support teams in delivering that specific type of work.