No matter how creative or talented you are, the proof, as they say, is in the pudding. At the end of the day it’s what you deliver to the client that matters, not what’s on the design board. Turning inspiration into reality involves a lot of steps and orchestrated execution. Ensuring all that goes smoothly and according to plan is the role of the project manager. Whether that’s an individual or the function of some individual, they are critical to the success of your business.

In this episode, Gail talks with Sarah Kimball, project manager with Brighton Studios in Staten Island, New York. Brighton Studios is an interdisciplinary studio focused on creating window displays, scenery, and creative visual merchandising for luxury brands, boutiques, museums, and exhibitions.

In discussing her role, Sarah stated that design firms need a combination of someone who is a visionary and someone (or someones) who can execute the plan to achieve that vision. The project manager serves as a bridge between the two. She does the planning and prep work to ensure that the team is “set up for success” before delegating specific tasks and goals. “I love starting new projects,” she said.

Sarah described some of the characteristics of a good project manager and a not-so-good project manager. In essence, they need to be solution-oriented and see each part of the plan through to completion. They also need to be able to communicate well and get along well with the rest of the team.

A challenge for the project manager is keeping the rest of the team on task. “You have to understand your team,” she said, to know what motivates them, how much information to give them, and how they like to work. It’s also important to set achievable goals for them (by day, by week, by project) and to prioritize the most important tasks. She’s found that explaining why a particular task is important or why it has to be finished at a certain time helps them stay focused.

Gail asked Sarah what the keys are to effective project management. Sarah said:

• 
  
• Creating a clear plan from the start
  
• Creating an environment of clear, transparent information and communication
  
• Anticipation, thinking ahead to what needs to be done when and why
  
• Taking ownership of the project schedule
  
• Checking in with the team on progress and any issues they may be dealing with
  

Gail also offered her insights on the importance of good project management. Listen to the podcast to hear their entire conversation.

If you’re listening on your favorite podcast platform, view the full shownotes here: https://thepearlcollective.com/s10e3-shownotes

Mentioned in This Podcast

For more information about Sarah and Brighton Studios, visit the firm’s website at brightonstudiosllc.com.

Gail recommended the book Rocket Fuel: The One Essential Combination That Will Get You More of What You Want from Your Business by Gino Wickman and Mark C. Winters. It is available from online booksellers in various formats.

Sarah stated that the project management software she uses is Asana. She also mentioned Monday, and Close, which is a CRM software that includes project management components. For contracting, Sarah said she uses Smartsheets.