De-scope vs push back timeline vs overtime? When it becomes apparent that your project is running behind, what considerations should be made when deciding to cut scope, push back the timeline, or ask for overtime? Or is it purely up to the customer?

One of the best decisions I've seen when it comes to this situation is to **cut scope wherever possible.** Sometimes, this is possible, and this is the best approach.

Why the best?

* Overtime is demotivating for team members (especially in the long-term) and burns them out
* Pushing back may not be possible if the company made promises to a customer



Asking the customer is good (if they say yes and are understanding); if they say no, you're in trouble.

The best thing is to communicate status early, and not get into a last-minute situation where you're "suddenly" three months late. Projects don't _suddenly_ fall behind schedule; they fall behind one hour at a time.