I’m writing a proposal today, which always makes me think of this scene from Yes, Minister. (Season 1, Episode 6):
There are four words you have to work into a proposal if you want it to be accepted:
- Quick
- Simple
- Popular
- Cheap
And equally there are four words to be included in a proposal if you want it thrown out:
- Complicated
- Lengthy
- Expensive
- Controversial
And if you want to make really sure the proposal is not excepted you must say the decision is courageous. I also find the word brave works wonders to a nervous project manager.
I used to work with a guy who would always say to enthusiastic project managers…
“The result can be polished, on time, or cheap. Pick any two.”
Haha, that is very good, I like it. Although I find life is better if project managers are given little choice