Thursday, 17 June 2004
A Recipe for Disaster
1 Difficult client
1 Mind, never made up
1 Fixed deadline, fast approaching
Handful of contractors, going insane
Mix input and deadline. Underscore early in the process that it is expected that the contractors be flexible. Next, change definition often and refuse to adhere to any sort of agreement, written or not.
Question ability of contractors to do anything if they don't precisely follow client's "suggestions." Do not recognize requirements defined earlier, except when advantageous to your position or unrealistic - preferably both.
Indicate unhappiness with rate of advancement; bring contractors to a slow boil. Whenever a goal is almost reached, change your definition of fulfillment. Let contractors stew in juices.
As deadline approaches, add ill-defined discontent at will but do not give any required information for advancement. Increase pressure until almost explosive.
When done, ignore results.