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Model / Deliver a Project / Set the Direction / Start with the end in mind
Rule 4 of 13

Start with the end in mind.

Agree the goal first, then work backwards to the big things that must be in place to achieve it.

A compass resting on a map to establish direction.

Questions to reflect on

There are no right answers here. You do not need to complete everything. Use what helps. When you are ready, ask: Is there a shared understanding of what the big things are that need to be in place in order to achieve the goal?

What must be in place to achieve the goal?

Start with the outcome you want. Work backwards until the big changes, outputs, and resources needed to achieve it are clear.

  • What must change or exist for the goal to be achieved?
  • Which people, skills, or resources will be needed?
  • What needs to be agreed before we plan the detailed work?

What are the big things we need to do?

Name the few important changes or outputs that will move the work towards its goal. Work backwards from the result instead of filling the plan with activities first.

  • What will people need to do differently?
  • What needs to be produced or changed?
  • Who should help check that this picture makes sense?

Review readiness

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Apply this rule

Plays are tools and guides to help you apply this rule.

What you can do next

Once the goal and the big things are clear, move into detailed planning and decide how to organise the work.

Confluity Project Model sitemap

Model overview

What are Jobs?

The model is organised into three Jobs:

Job 1: Set the Direction - shape the purpose into options and a preferred way forward.

Job 2: Prove It Works - test assumptions and reduce risk before going big.

Job 3: Make It Happen - deliver at scale and make sure people actually use what you build.

What are Simple Rules?

The model contains simple rules. These are short principles drawn from experience that help you make better decisions. Jobs, tasks, and plays help you put those rules into practice.

What is a Play?

A Play is a method or tool that helps you apply a rule or complete a task. Use the recommended Plays first for simpler projects before exploring others.

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