Making It Happen: A Non-Technical Guide to Project Management

Chapter 21. A New Assignment

"Frankly, I'm a little surprised, "Ralph said. "When we lost Al Burton, I thought this project might flounder." I glanced quickly at Stu, but resisted the urge to smirk openly. "Anyway, Marketing now tells us that they believe Ms. Starblanket's prediction regarding our early entry into the market to be correct. So despite getting caught totally offguard by California Water Trends, things are definitely looking up."

"Now, I didn't call you in here just to compliment you on your success so far. I have what you would call a scope change. Or maybe even a whole new assignment." My heart sank. More work, just like Martha said.

Ralph said, "Don't look so glum, Will. This isn't punishment, it's a reward."

Resigned, I asked, "Just what is the 'this' you're talking about, Ralph?"

"Marketing wants to rollout the WindSailor to the dealers in a grand way, something they've never tried before. Instead of the usual 'take it to the dealers' approach, they want to organize a kind of boat show and regatta on Hyler Lake for the weekend of June 6 and 7, and bring all of the major dealers on the West Coast in for a look. The dealers can see how the product is manufactured, and have a sail with it themselves."

"This all sounds great, but what do you need me for?" I asked. Ralph smiled and said, "I want you to organize it."

"Why me? It's Marketing's show!"

"The people in Marketing have a lot on their plate. You'll have the time available, and you've demonstrated that you ...