At Neo Consulting, we’re always looking for innovative ways to improve our project delivery processes and enhance our dynamic team environment. Throughout the first half of 2024 we’ve been testing and implementing what we refer to as the Diamond Approach. To-date, feedback from our team has been overwhelmingly positive. This approach has now become ingrained and we’re excited to share our journey with you.
What is the Diamond Approach?
Previously, projects and resources were shared as required throughout the entire team on an ad-hoc style basis. The reporting lines to the GM Consulting were many, from Principal level through to Engineer level. While this approach did allow significant flexibility, as we have grown we found that reporting became difficult and resourcing conflicts and frustrations were increasing.
The Diamond Approach involved creating multiple project delivery teams within Neo. Each ‘diamond’ typically includes four people, these are:
1. A team leader (TL)- 2.A second in command (2IC)
- 3. Engineer (intermediate or senior)
- 4. Graduate
Benefits of the Diamond Approach
- – Reduced reporting lines to the GM Consulting. This has reduced from 12 to 5 allowing more focused support.
- – Our TLs have become empowered, giving them direct control and management over their resources. This empowerment has allowed them to better plan and deliver workload. This has led to efficiencies as their attention can be focused on their team.
- – With the 2ICs shadowing and supporting the TLs, we have seen significant personal growth through closer shared knowledge and an increase in responsibility. This not only provides continuity for clients on projects, but also provides great real-world training for the 2ICs to develop their project management skills. Taking this one step further, it allows future opportunity for them to spawn off their own diamond and continue Neo’s growth.
- – Not all engineers aspire to be a TL, instead they are satisfied pursuing the technical excellence path. The Diamond Approach caters for this by allowing the Engineer position to be a Senior or Engineer level resource.
- – The training and support provided to the graduates has become enriched by being in a smaller intimate team.
Team Feedback on the Diamond Approach
Here’s what some of our team members have to say about their experience with the Diamond Approach so far this year:
- – “As one of the team leaders, I find that it makes planning projects much easier as I know what resources I will have available. It allows me to provide opportunities to provide longer-term training plans, especially for graduates.”
- – “I enjoy that it’s helped with our resourcing, we now have a team of engineers in our diamond we can plan work for, rather than relying on help from people outside of our control.”
- – “It’s added a little bit of competitiveness (healthy) between the teams on work being delivered.”
- – “Gives the intermediate engineers the ability to manage graduates (and in turn gives the graduate a little break from their senior).”
- – “For me, the most valuable aspect is the flexibility to manage your own resources. The Diamond Approach eliminates the inevitable conflict between project managers around shared resources.”
- – “Having the opportunity to shadow my team leader and learn the project management/financial aspects of projects. As a junior engineer, this knowledge will be beneficial in the future.”
- – “While the structure allows for efficient allocation of tasks based on experience and availability, it’s more the diverse array of knowledge that I’m often surprised by. The effectiveness of a Diamond Team approach lies in its ability to leverage diverse perspectives and skills to achieve our project objectives in a timely manner.”
Looking Ahead
As we continue to embrace the Diamond Approach, we’re excited about the potential for further innovation and success. This methodology aligns with our commitment to excellence and continuous improvement, ensuring that we deliver outstanding results for our clients while fostering a positive and dynamic team culture.
