Project of the Month


"From idea to project maturity""

Before the Project comes the Pre-Project — The most underestimated beginning

Not every project starts with a structured plan. Many begin as a simple idea, evolving step by step, with detours, setbacks, and new insights along the way. Yet it is precisely these early phases that determine the long-term success of any project.

TYPICAL STAGES ON THE ROAD TO PROJECT MATURITY

In most initiatives, we repeatedly observe a familiar pattern of development:


  1. “We’ve got an idea — let’s do it!”
    It all starts with a spark. Initial decisions are often made quickly, guided by experience or past data.
    But soon it becomes clear: the devil is in the details.

  2. Refining the assumptions — working out the first details
    Early answers tend to raise new questions.
    At this stage, teams often confront the key realization:
    “Is this really the right path?”

  3. Leaving the comfort zone — back to the beginning
    This is when the real pre-project work begins.
    Old assumptions give way to well-grounded concepts — ideas that can stand the test of time.


  • Only now is the project truly ready  to begin.

COMMON PITFALLS

  • The first two phases often take longer than expected.
  • Access to modern tools — from software to AI — can create the illusion of quick, “ready-made” solutions.
  • Human reflection and decision-making, however, can’t always keep pace.
    The result: the cart starts overtaking the horse.    

APPROACH

A project doesn’t truly start with the idea, vision, or initiative.
It starts by questioning the project itself.


1. Brainstorming — uncovering real solutions

  • Explore unconsidered alternatives
  • Challenge the status quo — nothing is off limits
  • Encourage “out-of-the-box” thinking

2. Reflection Phase

  • Exchange perspectives with outsiders, stakeholders, and decision-makers
  • Step back — let the concept mature naturally

3. Validation & Adjustment

  • Revisit and validate assumptions after the reflection period
  • Define clear goals
  • Draft a concise project profile

Once these steps are complete, the project will be truly ready for launch.


RESULT

Early stages are rarely linear, but those who dare to question, rethink, and restart create the foundation for lasting success.

 

At Lignum Consulting, we support you right from the exploration phase, offering fresh perspectives, new impulses, and the confidence to leave your comfort zone.

 

Real project success begins long before the project itself.