When I first started managing IT projects in Nepal, I honestly thought it was all about timelines, tools, and meetings. Make a plan, follow the plan, deliver on time—simple, right?
Well… not really.
After working on multiple web development and software projects in Kathmandu and across Nepal, I realized something important: most IT projects fail, not because the team is bad, but because of small human mistakes, miscommunication, and unrealistic expectations.
If you’re managing projects in Nepal, these are the main reasons you need to watch out for.
1. Miscommunication Is the Biggest Killer
In Nepal, clients often say:
“Yes, bujhe.”
And developers nod along, thinking everything is clear. But later, you find out everyone imagined something completely different.
This is especially true for small IT teams where everyone is multitasking. Politeness culture in Nepal sometimes stops people from asking clarifying questions, and that’s how small gaps turn into big project problems.
Tip: Repeat important points and confirm decisions in writing. A simple WhatsApp or email recap can save weeks of rework.
2. Scope Creep Happens All the Time
Every Nepali project manager knows this line:
“Yo ta sano change ho.”
Clients often ask for small changes, thinking it won’t affect anything. But these “small” changes pile up—deadlines slip, teams get stressed, and suddenly the project looks impossible to finish.
Tip: Discuss each request’s impact on time and cost. Clients usually understand when you explain calmly. Silence is what truly kills projects, not disagreement.
3. Unrealistic Deadlines Are Common
Tight deadlines are a reality in Nepal’s IT projects. Sometimes clients impose them, sometimes management does. Teams are often small, juggling multiple tasks, and one delay can affect everything.
The problem isn’t effort—it’s that the timeline never reflected reality.
Tip: Add buffer time, be honest about risks, and manage client expectations from the start. A realistic plan prevents most headaches.
4. Lack of Technical Understanding
Many project managers in Nepal don’t fully understand the technical side of projects. Without that knowledge, you end up guessing estimates, accepting overcommitments, or promising features that are impossible to deliver.
Even basic understanding of development, web design, or IT systems makes a huge difference. It builds trust with your team and helps clients feel confident in your management.
5. Teams Are Human, Not Machines
Projects fail when managers forget this simple fact. Nepali IT teams are usually small, multitasking, and overworked. Burnout and miscommunication happen more often than people admit.
I’ve learned that listening and understanding your team goes a long way. Support them, but also set clear expectations. Respect earns results faster than fear.
6. Poor Documentation Causes Chaos
In Nepal, most decisions happen verbally—phone calls, informal chats, or WhatsApp messages. Later, when disagreements happen, no one remembers what was said.
Tip: Keep small written notes. Even a short email recap or shared Google Doc is enough to prevent confusion. Documentation doesn’t mean mistrust—it means clarity.
Final Thoughts
IT projects in Nepal fail mostly because of miscommunication, small misunderstandings, unrealistic expectations, and lack of planning—not because the teams aren’t skilled.
If you’re a project manager in Nepal, remember:
- Communicate clearly, don’t assume anyone understands automatically.
- Discuss every new request and its impact.
- Set realistic timelines and manage expectations early.
- Respect your team and build trust.
- Document important decisions.
Projects will always be challenging in Nepal, but managing these small human things right can prevent most failures.
