What tactics help keep your cross-functional teams engaged during a LONG lead up to a big launch?

I totally agree with you. Nobody wants another meeting! In fact, loading up with endless meetings is a recipe for disengagement. Here are some tactics I follow to keep stakeholders informed, aligned, and engaged throughout the entire process:

1. Phased communication: Start with monthly high-level check-ins, transition to bi-weekly meetings as the launch approaches, and implement daily stand-ups near the launch date.

2. Clear goal definition: Establish well-defined, measurable goals that align all team members, fostering a sense of ownership and shared purpose.

3. Regular updates: Send concise, action-oriented updates via email or collaboration tools, highlighting progress, milestones, and changes.

4. Cross-functional collaboration: Embrace multiple perspectives and involve key players in all project discussions and decisions.

5. Clear role definition: Ensure each team member understands their specific role and responsibilities within the project.

6. Assign DRIs: Designate one directly responsible individual from each team to ensure consistency and avoid duplication of effort. This point person will be part of your communication channel, participate in meetings, and communicate any necessary action items to their teammates. This way you can ensure consistency, avoid duplication of effort across teams, and effectively keep everyone engaged.

To keep everyone aligned and motivated, it’s essential to maintain open communication about your goals and challenges while creating opportunities for feedback and innovative ideas. Celebrate milestones with your stakeholders and use visual tools like Gantt charts and dashboards to track progress and recognize each individual’s contributions along the way!

To make what I shared above more tangible, I've created a clear RACI framework that clarifies stakeholder roles, ensures efficient project management, and streamlines the decision-making process. You can find it here.