Good execution

What is good execution?

Executing a task or project well starts with having a map, knowing where you are, and knowing where you want to go. It involves some planning, and then being able to adjust that plan if you need to.

As a leader of a team that needs to execute, it’s your job to create that map and use it to guide your team to the destination. You’re in the passenger seat navigating while the team drives the rally car through the desert.

Let’s not get into the gritty details of project management. We all know you need to talk to stakeholders, gather requirements, and have a definition of “done”. But once you have those, what separates good execution from bad execution?

I think good execution involves efficiency and quality. You want to get to the finish line as fast as possible, but not at the expense of quality. That means slowing down. As a leader you can keep an eye on quality without micromanaging. Ensure everyone understands the definition of done, and make sure it includes measures that will lead to a high quality product.

Executing well also means adapting to change. If requirements change, or the definition of done needs to change, you need to recognize that quickly and change course. Often times this involves you or a member of your team needing to admit mistakes. It requires a level of humility.

Go execute well. Drive at the right speed, strive for quality, be adaptable and humble.