Managing WordPress projects (WP Round Table interview)

I was interviewed about managing WordPress projects for the WP Round Table podcast on March 16, 2015. We talked about scoping projects, qualifying prospects, managing a remote team, and more. I had met host Kyle Maurer at WordCamp Grand Rapids 2014, and I was honored to be a guest on the podcast.

Below are video and audio.

I had to laugh when Kyle said (at 37:54),

You've been described … as incredibly and even disturbingly reliable. It's a good compliment. You're a very disciplined person for sure, and someone that people can really count on.

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Questions answered

The hosts asked me these questions (paraphrased), in order:

  1. What's your background? How did you get to where you are, and the types of projects you're doing?
  2. What's your process for defining project scope?
  3. How did your scoping process evolve? What lessons have you learn about your onboarding process?
  4. What negative signals or red flags do you look for when qualifying prospects?
  5. What website mistakes to small businesses make? How do you point them out to clients?
  6. How do you help clients with their business workflow?
  7. How has your team changed over time? How is it structured now?
  8. What's the future of OptimWise?
  9. Do you have a physical office, or is the team remote?
  10. Do you think you'll create products in the future?
  11. How does someone work for OptimWise?
  12. Is chamber of commerce membership worthwhile?
  13. How are you so disciplined and reliable?
  14. What tools do you use to stay reliable?
  15. Tell us about the WordPress Grand Rapids meetup. What's the size? What topics do you cover?
  16. How long has WordCamp Grand Rapids been around? Is there another coming up?
  17. What's a favorite WordCamp memory?
  18. What's your process for training clients in WordPress? What documentation do you give clients?
  19. What's next for you and OptimWise?
  20. What events do you plan to attend in 2015?

Tools mentioned

  • Trello: project management
  • Google Apps
    • Google Drive
    • Google Calendar
    • Google Hangouts
    • Google Tasks

Conclusion

What did you find interesting or helpful about this episode? Leave a comment!

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2 comments on “Managing WordPress projects (WP Round Table interview)”

  1. It was great to have you on the show Chad! We just finished our 50th episode and I really think yours was one of the most valuable for WordPress entrepreneurs and freelancers. You shared some great advice. Thanks again!

    1. Thank you very much for inviting me on the show, Kyle. I'm glad to hear that the episode was valuable to your audience. Keep the informative episodes coming!

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