Project Management and FIRST?

[technoL]

We tried to implement Gantt charts last year, but eventually it was impossible to stay on track. Everything was planned out before the season started, and then the chart was adjusted and customized once we had a robot design (which ended up being a problem because the design was changed several times). It was rather effective up to week 3.

I have been thinking of ways to revise last year's organizational system to make sure that it will actually be effective. Some of my priorities are:
1. Cover all tasks according to level of significance
2. Assign people to specific tasks
3. Demonstrating progress/ show completed or unfinished tasks and percentage done
4. Make sure that the system is regularly updated and the team actually refers back to it

I think project management can work in FIRST and is worth the effort if it can be used effectively because it'll definitely make things run smoother. It requires dedication from the entire team, as it is too easy just to give it up and revert back to old methods. Evaluate your biggest challenge with organization during the season, and create a system that works for you from there.