I focus on open communication and collaboration to strike a balance. I set clear expectations by outlining the impact of delays and emphasizing the importance of timely maintenance for system stability. For instance, I recently presented a timeline showing how postponing updates could increase downtime risks, which helped align priorities. I then prioritize critical tasks, ensuring essential maintenance is completed without compromising operational integrity. During one project, we deferred non-urgent updates to accommodate a developer's customization request. I also collaborate with developers to find solutions.

Start by communicating openly with developers to understand their needs and constraints. Prioritize tasks based on urgency and impact, proposing a realistic timeline that balances both maintenance and customization efforts. Highlight the benefits of adhering to the maintenance schedule, such as improved system stability and performance. Be flexible and willing to compromise, perhaps by adjusting non-critical maintenance tasks. Document agreements to ensure clarity and accountability. Regular check-ins can help monitor progress and address any emerging issues promptly. This collaborative approach fosters mutual respect and ensures smoother project execution.

it's essential to negotiate deadlines that balance development needs with maintenance requirements. Here are strategies to achieve this balance: Collaborative Planning: Involve both development and maintenance teams in the scheduling process. Clear Prioritization: Clearly define and prioritize tasks to manage competing demands effectively. Utilizing task management software can help identify dependencies and assign urgency levels, ensuring that critical tasks are addressed promptly. CLICKUP Flexible Scheduling: Be open to adjusting deadlines when necessary. If customizations are essential, consider rescheduling maintenance or negotiating feature scopes to accommodate both needs. and Transparent Communication

Collaborating with developers is the key to solve this issue. However , sometimes there is no other choice but act on PLAN B , which is in my opinion , substitution of problem-makers developers with new ones. A good manager should always be ready for rainy days , and have backup for the ones in project vital parts. No need to say that this aggressive act should be acted in the cases in which no compromise is assumed through the collaboration process.

In my experience, fostering open communication is key to successful negotiations. Devs understand the broader implications of their customizations on system stability and maintenance timelines. By involving them in planning, we collaboratively identify critical tasks and prioritize accordingly, often finding creative solutions that balance their goals with operational needs. Building trust and aligning on shared objectives have been instrumental in mitigating conflicts and meeting deadlines effectively.

Understand the Customizations Meet with developers to fully understand the scope and necessity of the customizations. Identify which changes are essential versus optional. Critical vs Non-Critical: Classify tasks into critical maintenance, essential customizations, and lower-priority items.Align Priorities: Work with stakeholders to align on what needs to be delivered first.Transparency: Clearly communicate the impact of customizations on timelines. Use data, such as time estimates, resource needs, and risks, to back up your points. Agreements on Priorities: Agree on which deliverables must meet the deadline and which can be delayed. Set Clear Expectations: Define what is expected from both sides (e.g., code freeze periods, testing support

To balance innovation and stability when developers' customizations disrupt maintenance schedules, it's important to set clear expectations, prioritize key features, and create buffer periods for unforeseen issues. Breaking tasks into phases and maintaining open communication between teams can help manage progress and prevent delays. Additionally, negotiating realistic deadlines and leveraging automation can mitigate the impact on maintenance while accommodating necessary customizations.