Check the architecture
as you go along
uMake sure that the underlying system architecture is sound
uDon’t get so lost in endless routines that you lose sight of the big picture.
ØEvery 2 weeks “climb to the top of the tallest tree around” to see where you are
§Make sure that you are still going in the right direction.
§Look out for any obstacles between you and your goal.
§Climb back down the tree, have a group meeting, and have the project manager clearly point in the direction where everyone should be heading. 
uThe number of huge project failures that could have been prevented by using this strategy is surprisingly large.