Keeping A Korean Project on Track

Don Southerton

 

Question?  Don, working with Korea, how can we ensure projects stay on track amid changes and forces from outside of our control.

Answer. Great question. I will answer in two parts, in this posting, Part 1.

First, the short answer is it’s critical to stay aware and sensitive to not only the scope of the project but the broader circumstances that could impact the work.  One needs a 360 vs. a very linear mindset. In many cases, my work is providing this insight—honed over decades—more art than science.

Next, have countermeasures as options already in place.

To elaborate on both points…
Pondering on the question, it made me reflect on within the Korean workplace that the most savvy, long term staff and executives are both highly intuitive, sensitive and vigilant to all that goes on around them. They read situations and adapt accordingly. Little gets by them. In particular, they even anticipate senior leadership’s next moves. More so, without such a skill set few ever get to an executive level.

As a best practice, they also plan accordingly with countermeasures in place for all projects. In Korean we call this  miri miri…(Pronounced me re me re). It can be translated as preparing ahead of time and in advance.  It is in contrast to doing things at the last minute and then having to go balli balli.

Bottom line, look beyond the surface to gain insights into what may impact projects, assume some road bumps head, develop countermeasures, and be ready to execute quickly.

In Part 2,  I will discuss how even the best-laid plans can get blindsided. As always, need support? Need context and a 360 viewpoint? I am open to new projects and engagements, too.

Call, text, or email and we can discuss.

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