Planning Is Everything — Until It Isn’t

By Richard Plaskow Founder – Square Away Ltd

 

Not everything goes to plan. That’s not pessimism—it’s just reality.

The first thing I do when a project lands is simple: capture the data. Sales have handed over the baton, the objectives are clear, and now it’s on us to make it real. My approach? Work it backwards, and look at the details.

I rely on mind mapping—whether it’s a spreadsheet, CMS, or a big sheet of paper. I break the project into phases, circle anything that is missing, unclear, or risky. That visual breakdown helps quickly shape the timeline, highlight resource needs, and flag potential choke points.

Project Flow and Pressure

When business is good and the project pipeline is full, internal pressure builds fast. That’s where process matters. Our ISO systems, built over time, are working—and the SLT is stepping up.

  • Supply chain is performing.
  • Internal targets are being hit.
  • Communication is flowing.
  • And on paper—we’re in a good place.

But here’s the truth: project success lives or dies on risk management.

Why Risk Management Isn’t Optional

Risk costs time. Risk costs money. It can harm people, damage relationships, and dent client trust. So why wouldn’t we give it the attention it deserves?

At Square Away, everyone is empowered to raise risks, hazards, or opportunities to the SLT. That culture of communication is crucial. It’s our job as leaders to listen fast and act faster—minimising disruption before it becomes damage.

I keep a risk register close at all times. Even when a project looks similar to the last one, the environmental conditions and human dynamics are never identical. I’m constantly asking myself:

“What are the known risks—and what are the known unknowns?”

Why I Sleep at Night

Trusted supply chain and vendor relationships make all the difference. I keep a watchful eye, of course—but I rest easier knowing our partners approach risk the same way we do: openly, proactively, and with full transparency.

We’re moving fast—but not blindly.

More soon.

Richard