Delegation can often be a tricky technique to master, from understanding where to start, to knowing what can be delegated and who you can delegate to. If you ever hear yourself or someone else say “there’s too many things on my plate”, there’s a good chance it could be time to find a bigger plate, or time to consider delegating - especially if you can no longer see your plate.
CPORT is a handy acronym to help you navigate the conversation of delegating a task or project to a fellow team member or peer, and is utilised by asking relevant questions in a checklist like state for each letter of the acronym:
C | Context
- Why is this task or project important?
- What background information needs to be shared?
- What is this task or project for?
- What are the limitations?
P | Purpose
- Why is this task or project worth doing?
- What do you want to get out of completing this task or project?
- What else will be unlocked if this task or project is complete?
O | Outcomes
- What needs to be done?
- What is the standard you are hoping to achieve?
- How will you know once this task is complete?
R | Resources
- What external tools will be required to complete this task or project?
- What training will be required to complete this task or project?
- Who else will need to be involved?
- What else currently exists that will support the delivery of this task or project?
T | Time
- When does this task or project need to be completed?
- What milestones or key dates are important to work towards?
- How will you know if this task or project is on track?
- Where does the priority of this project fit in with other scheduled workloads?
Although delegating effectively can be both daunting and challenging, the CPORT technique provides a structured approach to make the process smoother. By following this method (even if it’s just a word you write down on a sticky note for now), you’ll help to keep it front of mind and ensure a more thoughtful and efficient delegation process when the next opportunity presents itself.
