This week I hit a few snags as the main SME for the research module was out on PTO (Personal Time Off). This pushed the project time-line back one week. I was still able to complete the creation of the module, I just needed to have the SME sign off so I can start the formative evaluations and send the finalized project to our Compliance Department for review. As an instructional designer, I understand that there will always be some type of event that may delay the project. The important part is to make sure everything is documented in the project plan, and that you are communicating with the stakeholders. The business is set on having the training available quickly since it affects so many Researchers and the bottom line. We are hoping to see a significant decrease in incorrect allocation of penalty and interest once the training has been delivered. The SME for the research module should be returning on Monday, and I plan to have her review the module and sign off. Any changes that need to be made will be done during our meeting because we are behind schedule due to the unplanned PTO. I've blocked out a 4hour meeting with her to accomplish the review, changes and sign off. This has been a very intensive project. I have had to work on weekends and after hours to accomplish what the business is expecting.
Challenges
The lack of SME resources to complete the Research module slowed the progress of the project significantly. The business did not respond to the issue as I was not provided with a back-up. I could not move forward with the review and approval of the SME.
How I overcame the challenges
To keep the project moving forward, I focused on other areas that could be completed. For example, I prepared the completed modules for risk review. I also moved forward within the formative evaluation process for this module, even without the SME sign-off. After all, I obtained the information from documents the SME provided at the beginning of the process. I felt like any changes would be minimal because the information she provided was very detailed. This way, the SME can review the product and sign off upon return without impeding the progress of the project.
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