Being a project manager for a medical device start-up continues to be quite the roller coaster ride. A good, smooth project day seems to be followed by one with lots of ups and downs, twists and turns. If you have a heart condition, this ride is not for you! This past week was no exception.
In recent weeks, the project management duties have been less fire-fighting and more proactive. Part of the reason is that the development project is transitioning from a design phase to a developement phase. It seemed as though all the parts and pieces were starting to come together. The disposable component tooling is wrapping up and first articles are being reviewed. The electronics hardware is nearing the end of the testing phase. The software design is mostly done and also entering formal testing. The various components are being put together to form the system.
But then more fires. It turns out that some of the disposable parts are not quite right. Tooling changes have been made, new, first articles were inspected, and more modifications are needed. Other disposable parts have been hard to acquire in a timely manner. Hardware testing has hit more snags. Hardware components require possible substitution. Others have ridiculous lead times. Critical project resources are torn between testing, further development, and other demands.
On the positive side, units to support additional testing and clinical work is underway. Contingencies have been established to keep critical path items close to on track. The project team is definitely taxed but also up for the challenge. It’s safe to say that we all have put on our creative thinking caps to resolve bumps and roadblocks.
I’m sure next week will be just as fun!