Recently, a colleague and I were lamenting about how our to-do lists only seem to grow and even the simplest of tasks takes much longer than expected to complete. Alas, this is an inherent certitude of our line of work, so as the saying goes, "If you can't beat 'em, join 'em."
Project Timeline Calculation (South Africa)
Project Timeline Calculation (South Africa)
- Estimate reasonable project duration
3 months (~91 days)
- Multiply by "Africa time" factor (2.5)
91 days x 2.5 = 227.5 days (7.6 months)
- Multiply month total by average number of public holidays per month (1.2)
7.6 months x 1.2 = 9.1 days
- Add this number to total days
227.5 days + 9.1 days = 236.6 days (7.8 months)
- Multiply total days by "X" factor (inclement weather, power outages, flat tires, tokoloshes, etc.), 1.5
236.6 days x 1.5 = 354.9 days
- Add an additional 2 weeks for good measure
354.9 days + 14 days = 368.9 days (MIN)
- Multiply MIN by ∞
368.9 days x ∞ = ∞ (MAX)
According to this calculation, an estimated 3-month project will take a minimum of 1 year, 1 week and 2 days and a maximum of infinity.
Conclusions: Focus on one task at a time, rejoice in little victories, and have fun – enjoy the ride.
*Note, the above calculation is based on personal experience and input from colleagues. "Africa time" and "X" factors are subject to change and may be dependent on the result of today's election.
Conclusions: Focus on one task at a time, rejoice in little victories, and have fun – enjoy the ride.
*Note, the above calculation is based on personal experience and input from colleagues. "Africa time" and "X" factors are subject to change and may be dependent on the result of today's election.
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