Surprise Finding: Big Project & Transformation Messiness is Up 11%

We often think of successful projects as well-oiled machines—smooth, structured, and predictable. Yet, our latest research tells a different story: big projects and transformation initiatives are 11% messier than they were last year. And here’s the twist—messiness isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It’s how leaders engage with complexity that determines success.

Let’s explore the top factors behind the rise in messiness:

Changing Business Needs & Priorities.

At a time of accelerating change, it can be difficult to keep the organization focused on the initiative. Sometimes the focus needs to change, but plans are too rigid to adjust.

Lots of Projects Competing for Scarce Resources.

Ensuring your project can access the resources and get the attention it needs can be a challenge.

The Alignment of Internal Stakeholders.

People are pulling in different directions, especially when it comes to cross-functional collaboration. The pull of silos & solo-runs is always present.

Balancing Short-Term Performance with Longer-Term Transformation.

This is an ongoing challenge. So too is linking big initiatives to business impact & results.

Conversations Not Being Had.

People are avoiding difficult or strategic conversations around business impact, resources, risks, etc. There may be a bias for good news only.

Are any of the messiness drivers affecting your big project or strategic initiative? Here is a quick recap of the messy list:

• Changing Business Needs & Priorities
• Lots of Projects Competing for Scarce Resources
• Alignment of Internal Stakeholders
• Balancing Short-Term with Longer-Term
• Conversations Not Being Had (CNBH)

It is not all bad news! There is a positive side to messiness. Indeed, there is money in the mess!

Super projects aren’t ‘super’ because they don’t face obstacles and frustrations, but rather because they do. It is how they engage with messiness and complexity that makes them stronger and underpins their success.

Want to find the money and the momentum in the mess? Why not talk to us.