“The closest thing to a complete project methodology"

Interview marking 10 years of Half Double

As Project Director at Sweco Denmark (formerly Grontmij), Steffen Moe joined the very first Half Double sessions. In this interview, he reflects on the early momentum, the power of peer sparring, and why he sees Half Double as the closest thing to a complete project methodology.
Project Director Steffen Moe

What was your role in the development of the Half Double methodology?

I joined from the beginning, initially participating in four morning sessions that later evolved into a longer process with workshops, inspiring speakers, and collaborative development of both the methodology and its growing network.

You were part of the Half Double journey from early on – what do you particularly remember from that time?

It was an exciting initiative where you met like-minded people from other industries – people passionate about project management and performing at a high, operational level in their daily work.

What made the idea of developing a new project model attractive and exciting to you?

Hearing about others’ experiences and perspectives on the real challenges faced by project managers on large, demanding projects – where the path forward isn’t always clear.

And also, being part of “Sparring Sessions,” where we took the pulse of each other’s projects in a trusted environment. These sessions helped identify areas where action was needed to create results.

What have you taken with you from Half Double that you still use today?

That project management has many facets. You need to constantly keep your finger on the pulse and take action not just where it’s needed – but early, and as foresightedly as possible.

Can you recall a moment when you thought: “This really works”?

I particularly remember that, early in the process, there was strong consensus around the 10 guiding stars – which later became the foundation for the three core elements of the Half Double methodology: Impact, Leadership, and Flow.

In your view, what has Half Double done differently – and better – than other methods? 

Unlike many of the well-known “big” project models, I see Half Double as the closest you get to a complete methodology with no missing links. It embraces the full universe that the guiding stars represent, with a clear focus on Impact, Leadership, and Flow.

I also find it deeply insightful that the model circle is surrounded by a “Local Translation” band, which shows real respect for how rules and norms actually work in practice – and makes space for the necessary adaptation to your specific project context.

If you could wish for anything in Half Double’s future, what would it be?

That it becomes much more widespread and respected – as a necessary layer on top of traditional project management tools. Because its foundation is in leading people, not just documenting a plan that in itself is no guarantee for success.