July 28, 2021

Every month we introduce a new staff member from the Planeteria team. We sat down with Jessica to ask her a few questions about her role at Planeteria.

Jessica, please introduce yourself.
Hi, I am Jessica Kane.  I have an extensive background as a developer, and I love working as a technical project manager and applying my past expertise.  I particularly enjoy working directly with the client to help their dreams become a reality.  I’m a mom to two wonderful kiddos, and outside of work, they are my world!  I also am a seamstress, and generally, just enjoy creating things.

What is your role at Planeteria?
I am a project manager at Planeteria.  I work directly with our clients and coordinate with our various teams to make sure the project is executed effectively.

How long have you been in this role?
I have been working for Planteria since March 2020, now a little over a year.

Which is your preferred management style?
With my background in tech, I have always preferred a transformational management style.  Our world of technology is constantly shifting and changing, and I think we need to be flexible – more so than other fields.  As a manager, or an employee – I think it is important to explore innovative ideas, and constantly find ways to improve your process.

How do you manage multiple clients at once?
Very carefully! I put all of my energy into each and every project and enjoy the challenges and solutions that come with each different situation. 

What do you find most challenging about your job?
The most challenging part of managing projects is always the roadblocks that are bound to happen.  For me, this is a great chance to grow, and learn ways to improve our process for future projects. 

What makes a project successful from a management perspective?
Communication is always key in a project.  When you have open communication between the client and the team, problems seem small.

What are some of the biggest challenges you face during the duration of a project?
Communication breakdown, and slows on the project timeline due to external factors.  There can always be times where the project may be put on hold or the goals can change.  My task as a project manager is to ensure that we deliver a quality product that meets and exceeds the client’s needs.

What types of projects are your favorites to work on?
I love our diverse client base.  We take on clients at the large-scale government level, down to your local artisan looking to share their creations with the world.  To me, this is one of the best parts of my job, hearing all of the stories and history behind each client.

What would you like to see more of within municipal website design?
Something new and fresh, but functional and elegant.  Something that doesn’t just look like a boilerplate template with some nice images thrown on top.  Innovation; new ways for the community to connect with their municipalities.

How would you describe your day-to-day?
Each day I am looking at ways to push each project forward towards the finish line.  I check in on each project and make sure the wheels are turning.  I will give special attention to any projects currently experiencing roadblocks, and discover the best way forward.