“If we’re going to do this project, it’s got to be right!” “There’s a lot riding on this. If it does not come out exactly right, on time, and on budget, then we’re (you’re) in trouble.”

Have you come across expressions like this before? I have, particularly on energy projects. While for other projects, it seems to be OK if it is a little less than perfect in execution or a little late or maybe even a little overbudget. But when it comes to an energy or sustainability project, that all goes out the window. Managers expect major cost savings and they be achieved quickly without any disruptions.

This is a managerial mind-set I have experienced myself with some clients, an obsession with perfection. The demand that a project go perfectly or else we won’t do it is wrong-headed for success and for motivating employees.

Energy and sustainability, like most projects, rely on innovation and adjustment to be successful. There is never a guarantee that a return on investment will hit the mark that was calculated in theory on a spreadsheet. Energy, like most projects, needs flexibility, including an openness for minor failures, and improvement from learning from errors.

I have also come across clients who wonder why we perform analyses of likely success and potential financial gain. Why not just “go to Walmart and buy a few hundred of the darn technology and just install it.” No, that’s not the way a successful project works. Yes, one can overdo pre-project analysis. But every building and company is different and it’s important to plan out the energy upgrade or sustainability study, see how it will likely affect the company’s operation and bottom line, and then design it for the best results, taking data to see if adjustments must be made along the way.

This is the best way to approach an energy or sustainability project and will most likely lead to success for your company. Slow, sure, collect data along the way, and learn from mistakes. With that in mind, it is crucial to communicate the progress of your project, so the managers will know what’s going on, why things may be deviating from original plans, but with the understanding of why this is ultimately beneficial.

“If you are going to achieve excellence in big things, you develop the habit in little matters. Excellence is not an exception, it is a prevailing attitude.”
– Gen. Colin Powell

CCES can help your company organize, design, and develop your sustainability, green, or energy program to maximize financial benefits for your individual operations and buildings. We can help you learn from others and communicate progress effectively. Contact us today at 914-584-6720 or at karell@CCESworld.com.