Project plans often include timelines, dependencies, budget considerations, and resource allocation. What’s less common, but just as essential, is a communication layer built into that plan from the start. Without it, projects move forward technically but lag in adoption, clarity, or cross-functional alignment.
Communication is usually treated as something that comes later, once decisions are made and the work is underway. But by then, key opportunities have already passed. When communication is baked into planning early, teams can identify who needs to be informed at each phase, where risks to understanding might emerge, and how messaging can evolve as the project takes shape.
This means pausing during planning to ask a few important questions: Who needs to be aware, involved, or equipped as this project progresses? What decisions will create confusion if not communicated well? Where will people look for updates, and how do we make that easy?
When this layer is accounted for early, teams move with fewer disruptions. Front line staff aren’t caught off guard by changes, support teams aren’t stuck answering questions they didn’t know were coming and senior leaders aren’t left piecing together a narrative after the fact. Communication can now be proactive, as it’s part of the structure.
A strong project plan will guide execution and with a well-defined communication layer, shared understanding is supported. It helps ensure that the people impacted by the work can follow what’s happening, prepare for what’s ahead, and stay aligned as the project moves forward. When both are in place, the organization gains clarity and momentum at the same time.