Communication is at the core of every project. In fact, some would go as far as to say that project management is nothing more than skilled communication. Having great communication between team members will enable you to get more done in a shorter period of time and tackle challenges that just wouldn’t be possible without great teamwork.

Here are a few tips for project management communication.

==> Communicate the Vision

The first and most important thing to communicate in a project is the vision. In other words, what needs to be done and why.

Just assigning people to do things won’t inspire them to give it their all. On the other hand, if people know why they’re doing certain thing and how it’ll impact the organization, customers or the world at large, they’ll be much more inspired to give their all.

==> Closing the Loop

Get in the habit of closing the loop. That’s the habit of “closing” any open request with an email or conversation.

For example, say someone asks you to go and buy some folders for the office. You buy the folders. Most people would consider this task done. However, the loop hasn’t been closed. The last step of closing this loop would be to email the person who made the request letting them know the folders are in the office.

If loops aren’t closed, even if things are getting done, people will feel like there are a lot of incomplete tasks floating around. Closing the loop creates a sense of progress and a sense that things are getting done.

==> Practice Transparency & Honesty

Be transparent with the numbers and be honest with mistakes. Numerous studies have shown that honesty is a far greater motivator than money in the workplace.

Admit your mistakes when you make mistakes. This is the first step to creating a culture where other people on your team are willing to also admit mistakes. Never blame others for mistakes; instead look at them as opportunities for learning.

Be transparent with profits. Some companies try to hide how much money they’re making or losing for fear of jealousy or judgment. That’s a terrible way to build a team.

==> Practice Documentation

Processes should be documented, as should goals, tasks, team member roles and anything else that’s integral to the project’s success.

There’s a big difference between an organization that has well documented processes for running a project and an organization that just runs projects in an ad hoc manner.

Building a strong team that has healthy lines of communication is essential to getting projects done on time. Communicate the vision, close loops, cultivate transparency and practice documentation to create a well oiled getting-things-done corporate culture.