PMcrunch

There are lots of opinions on delegating.  There is no one right answer to when it best to delegate, but there are some key considerations.
Here are some key considerations when thinking about whether or not to delegate a task:

1. Do you have time?

There are many tasks you might like to do for a particular reason, but you just cannot due to time constraints.  You must take the efficient way out, deciding on what is best for the success of the project.

2. Do you understand the work?

Many projects involve technical work for which you may not be suited.  On the other hand, you may not have the experience, but do have the ability to get up to speed enough to complete the work satisfactorily.  I would pursue this angle if it satisfies some of the other reasons below.

3. Do others have the time?

It obviously is beneficial to use the time of others on your team effectively – before doing something yourself!

4. Will it help you understand the project better?

Sometimes there are tasks where you would benefit from getting some familiarity with the subject via “direct field work”.  Getting truly plugged in to select work allows you to really understand what you are dealing with.  Makes sure it truly meets the criteria of “needing to understand”.

5. Will it help you to more effectively delegate that work later?

Building on the previous bullet, understanding gained by doing can often allow you to better organize the work for efficient and effective delegation to others.

6. Will you earn more respect from your team?

Often your team – this is especially true of technical and other highly skilled teams – will respect you much more, and follow you much more willingly, if you have demonstrated your willingness and ability to do the work.  Even if you cannot perform as well as team members, showing the willingness to roll up your sleeves and tackle the job goes a long way.

7. Does your work as a participant – not just project manager - fit into the scope and size of the project?

For larger projects, there simply is not the opportunity to do this, and the shear volume of tasks must be compartmentalized and executed accordingly.  For smaller projects, there is more opportunity.Delegation is a great and necessary skill for project managers.  Do not be afraid to make a decision, either way, based on your own best judgment at the time, and learn from it.
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John Reiling, PMP
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