The Update Framework Every PM Needs

Let me be honest.
I treated project status updates like a formality for years.

A box to check.
A meeting to survive.
A deck no one wanted to read.

But here’s the truth: Status updates aren’t “just” updates.
They’re one of the most powerful leadership tools you have as a Project Manager.

Updates can:
→ Shift how executive leadership sees your project’s value
→ Build trust across teams
→ Influence key business decisions

The problem? Most PMs (including me, early on) make updates too long, too tactical, or too vague.

That’s why I started using a simple structure that cuts through the noise and positions you as a strategic partner.

Once I shifted how I approached updates, everything changed.

I stopped thinking of them as “status reports.”
I started treating them as a leadership tools.

I call it The Project COO™ 3×3 Update Framework.

The Project COO™ 3×3 Update Framework

1️⃣ Wins — What moved the needle?
- Highlight progress tied to business goals
- Call out cross-team contributions that built momentum
- Share early outcomes or data points that matter

2️⃣ Risks — What could slow us down?
- Name the risk before it escalates
- Explain the potential impact on goals, timeline, or budget
- Share the mitigation plan already in motion

3️⃣ Next Steps — What’s happening now?
- State the immediate priorities for the next sprint/week/month
- Note any key decisions needed from leadership
- Confirm ownership and deadlines for each action

This framework keeps leadership focused on impact, builds trust through transparency and foresight, and positions you as a strategic partner.

Try using this framework in your next project update. Notice how the conversation shifts from “what’s happening” to “how do we move forward.”

That’s the difference between managing projects and leading them strategically.

Until next shift,
Tanesha
Join me on LinkedIn