What are the challenges while handling UK and US Clients?

Hi,

 

With respect to working long term with US client(s) form US and from India locations I am attempting this,

 

American clients are really good to work with, probably that's why we have seen so much success in Indian IT.

 

#Communication: Easy to communicate but sometimes US accent if you are not used to could be a little challenge.

 

If you know the culture this helps. For example William is often referred as bill in discussions. Local holidays, summer/winter time and daylight savings etc.

 

So that you can manage meetings, project demo's accordingly.

 

#Requirements: Changing requirements or vague requirements could be more challenging.

Though in agile era you expect it; but you have to do additional work on clarify and itemise requirements.

 

Even though with agile-scrum client would not agree significant variance in delivery and schedule; so very helpful when you itemise to minimal level for tasks.

 

It is very important ot have good BA or your team to clarify the requiremetns and get agreement with client or get sign off.

 

Sometimes as PM you have to use "scrummer-fall". :)

 

# Project Status updates:

Give them precise and timely updates.

They are cool as long as project meets timelines with good deliverables.

Mostly they don't do micro management but need to be wel linformed.

Everyone will be happy if you save 10 minutes of 30 mins meeting.

 

#Risks and schedule variance:

Timelines are important, missing them due to any reason is a challenge.

So, identify and update on project risks proactively.

Maintain detail catalogue of project tasks, estimations, keep updated and handy.

 

#Problems with Solutions:

If any surprise issues encountered in project execution, propose alternative solutions, re-prioritize things to keep it moving and propose it.

Now days clients expect you to be tarnsparent.

 

I have limited experience with UK clients, with respect to my experience -

 

They are meticulous, follow time strictly, have to be more punctual along with points mentioned above.

 

Thanks for reading.