Making MAP Succeed
What Makes a Good MAP Proposal?
- It addresses a real challenge or opportunity that has no existing or obvious solution.
- It has strong support from senior level management.
- It requires a multidisciplinary approach.
- It can successfully be completed in seven weeks.
- It demands a set of actionable recommendations.
Sponsor Responsibilities
- Provide two dedicated and engaged project liaisons
- Provide relevant data, which may be proprietary, to the MAP team
- Arrange for the MAP team to interview key personnel in your organization
- Provide workspace and appropriate business and communications equipment
- Reimburse project-related expenses, including travel, for the MAP team
Project Planning
- Begin early
- Educate management about MAP
- Get senior management buy-in
- Appoint a company liaison and alternate liaison
- Communicate project goals early
- Identify information sources (internal and external)
- Budget for project costs
Get the Team off to a Fast Start
- Week I - Before students arrive
- Conference calls-discuss topic, answer questions
- Provide pre-reading
- Set up meetings for team to meet many people early in the process (including HR, decision makers, & senior management)
On-site Orientation Session
- Provide understanding of business
- Meet senior management and key contacts
- Organize and schedule internal presentations
- Discuss statement of work
- Treat MAP Team as partners/consultants, not students
- Let Team be creative – balance control vs. hands-off
- Have Fun – arrange a team dinner
Logistics/Housekeeping Session
- Prepare written travel policy
- Clearly explain spending/reimbursement policy
- Be aware that students are on limited incomes
- Arrange access to corporate resources
- Provide conference call numbers
- Provide office space/access
- Treat them like “new hires”
Ongoing Project Management
- Provide weekly contact or meeting (plan on 5-10 hours/week)
- Schedule mid-term project review
- Be available and be responsive
- Manage responsiveness within your corporation
- Contact faculty advisor if issues arise
- Keep team focused. Expect some modifications to the Statement of Work
Project Final Presentation
- On-site presentation allows more participation by management
- Attendees provide valuable feedback on next steps
During and After MAP
- Put students in touch with recruiting personnel for full time opportunities
- Hire one or more team members as a summer intern
- Continue to provide feedback after project is completed
Next: Project Proposal
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