I was running a big project in Sri Lanka when the project hit a roadblock, in a telecommunications operation with subscribers already in service. I started first, by assessing the root cause of the issue by gathering input from all relevant stakeholders, including technical teams and the vendors. Once identified, I worked with the team to break down the problem into manageable parts, prioritize the critical path, and explore alternative solutions with open mind, to finally expedite the project. Clear, consistent communication with the team and country leadership was crucial to maintain momentum and trust. Also very important, we stayed agile, focusing on collaboration, and revisiting project goals, to move project back toward success.

When I hit a major roadblock in a telecom project, the first thing I do is evaluate its full impact. It’s important to dig into how this setback affects not just the timeline, but also the budget and service quality. I look at how the issue might disrupt network performance or customer satisfaction and consider any knock-on effects. This deep dive allows me to prioritize what needs immediate attention and decide if we need to reallocate resources or tweak the scope to stay on track. Understanding the full picture upfront helps me make smarter decisions moving forward.

It is important to fully understand what is preventing progress. This may involve technical, financial, time or resource issues. See if there is an alternative technology or approach that can work around the problem. In telecommunications, this may involve changing a protocol, reconfiguring networks or using different software.

Start by evaluating the roadblock’s overall impact on your telecommunication project. Determine if it affects the project timeline, budget, or scope. Understanding the extent of the disruption will help you prioritize actions and decide how urgently resources need to be allocated to resolve the issue.

Identify the root cause of the problem. Is it due to technical challenges, vendor delays, or resource limitations? A thorough analysis ensures you're addressing the actual issue, not just symptoms. By targeting the underlying cause, you can create a more effective and sustainable solution.

Once the cause is clear, adjust your strategy. This might involve reallocating resources, adjusting the project timeline, or adopting alternative technologies. Be flexible and open to change to overcome the obstacle without compromising the overall project goals. A revised strategy helps keep the project on track.

Involve your team in problem-solving. Encourage brainstorming and collaboration to find solutions, as they may offer fresh perspectives or technical insights. Team engagement fosters a sense of ownership and accountability, ensuring everyone is aligned toward overcoming the roadblock together.

Ensure all stakeholders are informed about the situation. Provide transparent updates on the roadblock, your proposed solution, and any changes to the project timeline. Clear communication maintains trust and allows for quick decision-making, especially if further support or resources are needed.

After implementing the solution, closely monitor progress to ensure the issue is fully resolved. Regularly check milestones and KPIs to detect any lingering problems early. Consistent monitoring allows you to make real-time adjustments and prevents future setbacks from derailing the project again.