Do's and Don'ts of Managing a Project

If you're new to home improvement, you'll need to know that every DIY undertaking involves a project process. Having the proper expectations will help ensure success and help limit frustration. Project management is the first hurdle in do-it-yourself work. Here are some tips to get you off to the right start.

Project Management Dos

Do start with a realistic budget. Inevitably, unexpected costs and problems will come up so make sure that you overestimate your budget by 20 to 30 percent.

Do create a time line for your project. One of the biggest pitfalls of do-it-yourself home improvement is having the work take much longer than anticipated. Be realistic about how much time you can dedicate to the work.

Do educate yourself about the task you want to accomplish. Most home improvement stores offer project how-to classes. Check to see if you can benefit from the experience of others. Use the library and Internet for research as well.

Do know when it's time to call a professional. If you're remodeling a bathroom and accidentally burst a pipe, be prepared to call a plumber unless you're a plumbing expert.

Do adher to local building codes that govern your project. Pull the necessary permits when required.

Do learn from your mistakes.

Do show appreciation and respect to workers and helpers. Keeping your crew happy is essential to good team work. Show and tell them that they are doing a good job and give them room to work.

Project Management Don'ts

Don't micro manage. If you've hired a crew to do a project, keep an eye on them and be sure to set proper expectations and then let them do their jobs.

Don't be afraid to ask for help. You probably have a friend that has tackled the project you're trying to complete. They will more than likely be happy to offer advice or a helping hand.

Don't get in over your head. Know your physical and skill related limitations. It will cost more in the long run if you have to pay someone to finish or correct a job that isn't done right the first time.

Don't cut corners. Make sure you follow the proper steps in the proper order. Long lasting results depend on a project being completed properly.

Don't let other's opinions lead you astray. Trust your gut and use common sense when taking advise.

Don't have unrealistic expectations. If you've never tiled a floor before, don't expect your grout lines to be perfect. It will be a learning experience that will improve with time.

Don't get frustrated. If you're trying something for the first time remember that there is a learning curve that will take some time and experience to overcome. Keeping a cool head will help make things go more smoothly.

Whether you're tackling a project on your own or managing a crew, you'll want to make sure that you know what you're getting into and setting the proper expectations for yourself and others. Education is the first step, followed by patience and common sense. If you follow these tips you'll be well on your way to managing a successful project.