Project managers face various dilemmas and one of the most significant ones is that they have too many tasks at hand and very little time to execute. The secret to managing projects and executing them effectively isn’t about doing everything rather to focus on the most important ones.

This is where the 80/20 rule comes in handy; it is also called the Pareto Principle. Its philosophy is that 80% of outcomes result from just 20% of efforts.

When it is applied to project management, this principle helps team members prioritize tasks, optimize resources, and maximize the impact.

Today, in this guide we will explore how you can leverage this 80/20 rule to streamline workflows, increase efficiency, and drive project success.

Understanding the 80/20 Rule in Project Management

Originally the Pareto principle was an economic concept, however, its application later extended far beyond. In project management, this rule suggests that:

• 80% of project delays come from 20% of bottlenecks.

• 80% of the results stem from 20% of project activities.

• 80% of project costs arise from 20% of the resources.

• 80% of team performance issues come from 20% of the team members.

By recognizing these patterns you empower project managers to focus their efforts where it matters most.

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