Why is ‘fast-tracked’ a euphemism for heroic failure?

“Management’s fast-tracked the project,” the manager said with a shrug and a wry smile. As his body language implied, ‘fast-tracked’—despite sounding important—is really shorthand for not having time to plan effectively.

A better phrase is ‘tightly coupled’. The plan doesn’t allow enough slack to deal with issues. Why? Because the time to identify risks before the project begins is cut short. Coupling relates to complexity. Trying to finish quicker than normal adds complexity, which raises the overall challenge level.   

‘Fast-tracked projects’ have become a euphemism for ‘failing projects’ because the organization simply isn’t ready to undertake them. “Well, it’s fast-tracked, isn’t it?” the manager adds. “Of course, things are going to slip!” The expectation is built in.

Fast-tracked projects are a choice, though—whether to gain strategic advantage, exploit increased demand, or an expected price increase. They’re not inherently more risky, just more complex.

For more predictable success, the project team needs greater project risk maturity (PRIMA) than one undertaking the same scope with more time. This means boosting their ability to sense risks early, so they can adapt to surprises and resolve issues before recovery is needed.

For more predictable success, the project team needs greater project risk maturity (PRIMA) than one undertaking the same scope with more time. This means boosting their ability to sense risks early, so they can adapt to surprises and resolve issues before recovery is needed.