Why So Many Projects Go Off Track—and How to Prevent It
Project Management with Purpose: A Pathway to Shared Ownership and Real Results
In impact-driven organizations, teams can get stretched thin, juggling bold visions with limited time and capacity. And while the commitment is there, it’s common for projects to stall—not because people aren’t working hard, but because the scope isn’t clear, the timeline keeps shifting, and accountability gets lost in the shuffle.
At Building For Mission, we’ve seen this challenge across organizations of all sizes and sectors. That’s why we developed our Project Pathway Tool—a practical resource that outlines the steps to define scope and schedule at the beginning of projects.
The Challenge
Too often, the “why” and “when” are discussed at the leadership level but get lost in translation when it’s time to implement. Teams are left unsure of what’s most important, how long it should take, or who owns what. The result? Missed deadlines, duplicate efforts, and work that doesn’t align with where the organization is trying to go.
The Approach
In our project management workshops (like the one we delivered for Centering Healthcare Institute), we work directly with teams to:
- Break down complex goals into clear milestones and realistic timelines
- Clarify scope and ownership to reduce ambiguity and foster shared accountability
- Develop tailored workplans that align individual efforts with organizational priorities
We don’t just hand over a template—we guide teams through using it in real time, helping them build the skills and habits they need to lead projects from within.
Why It Matters
When every team member knows how to define success, scope their work, and plan effectively, it boosts overall performance and equity. You reduce the hidden labor of navigating unclear expectations and give all staff—regardless of title or tenure—the tools they need to contribute meaningfully.
Building for Mission (BFM ) Freebie — Schedule and Scope Project Management Tips