Project Management Concepts

Chapter Concepts

• This chapter introduces core project management ideas.
• It covers project definitions, attributes, constraints, lifecycle, and more.
• It also includes project management definition, elements, stakeholder engagement, global implications, The Project Management Institute, and the benefits of project management.

Learning Outcomes

• Define what a project is and list its attributes.
• Explain project objectives and deliverables.
• Provide project examples.
• Identify and discuss project constraints and life cycle phases.
• Define and implement project management strategies.
• Discuss planning process steps.
• Identify the executing process elements.
• Create a stakeholder register and discuss stakeholder engagement.
• Discuss global project management and The Project Management Institute.
• List the benefits of project management techniques.

Project Integration Management

• Project Management Knowledge is according to PMBOK® Guide.

Project Attributes

• Projects have clear objectives, interdependent activities, and require various resources.
• They operate within a specific time frame and are unique, one-time endeavors typically with a sponsor or customer that have a degree of uncertainty.

Balancing Project Constraints

• Project success is constrained by factors like scope, quality, stakeholders, schedule, budget, resources, customer satisfaction, and risk.

Project Manager Actions

• Project managers should prevent, anticipate, and overcome challenges.
• Effective planning and clear communication are crucial.
• Responsibility is a key attribute of a project manager.

Project Life Cycle

• Project life cycle phases include initiating, planning, performing, and closing.

Initiating Phase

• This is the first phase of a project.
• Involves identifying a need, problem, or opportunity.
• It determines if a project should be selected
• A project charter is developed which should include the rationale, project objectives, expected benefits, general requirements and conditions.
• Deciding if a Request for Proposal (RFP) is needed.

Planning Phase

• This is the second phase, shows how the project scope can be accomplished.
• Project work and the project plan are outlined.
• A project baseline plan is developed.
• The baseline plan addresses what needs to be done (scope, deliverables), how it will be done (activities, sequence), who will do it (resources, responsibilities).
• Also addresses how long it will take (durations, schedule), how much it will cost (budget), and what the risks are.
• Crucially, the resources plan should be based on accessible resources.

Performing Phase

• This is the third phase and involves achieving project objectives.
• The project manager leads and the project team completes the project.
• Pace increases as more resources are added.
• Progress is monitored and controlled, and as needed, take necessary corrective action.
• Changes are managed and controlled with sponsor approval.
• Customer satisfaction is the goal.

Closing Phase

• The final phase of the project.
• Collect and finalize payments
• Staff is recognized and evaluated.
• A complete post project evaluation is conduct.
• Project lessons are documented and archive the projects document.
• And finally, the record of lessons learned.

Project Planning Process

• Establish project objectives.
• Define the project scope.
• Create a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS).
• Assign responsibilities.
• Define specific activities.
• Sequence all activities.
• Estimate the activity resources, activity durations, and activity costs.
• Develop the project schedule.

Create WBS and Assign Responsiblity

• Creates a Work Breakdown Structure and Assign Responsibility.

Sequence Activities

• Activities should be logically sequenced.

Develop The Project Schedule

• A project schedule should be developed and maintained.

Determine Budget

• Project budgets need to be determined and managed.

Execute the Project Plan

• Perform the work is necessary to execute all activities and phases
• Monitor and control project progress.
• And control any changes to the project

Stakeholder Engagement

• Key stakeholders include the customer/sponsor and the project team (including subcontractors and suppliers).
• Stakeholders can also be organizations or groups who may be supportive or adversarial.
• Stakeholders need to be kept can be kept informed because of potential impact.
• A stakeholder register should be created to identify all stakeholders and it should include:
  • Key contact information.
  • Roles or specific topics of interest.
  • Expectations.
  • Any known issues.
  • Areas of potential influence.
• Maintain an issue log

Global Project Management

• Globalization adds complexity to projects and changes project dynamics.
• It is essential to be aware of factors like cultural differences, currency, and codes/regulations.
• Awareness of a business organization, political relations, and workforce availability is crucial
• Helpful competencies include foreign language skills and knowledge of cultures, geography, world history, contemporary events, and international economics.
• Awareness of customs, etiquette, and the geopolitical environment is recommended.
• Technology adoption and translation software proficiency are very beneficial.

Project Management Associations

• The Project Management Institute (PMI) is a worldwide not-for-profit association.
• PMI has ~500,000 members in nearly 200 countries.
• And ~270 chapters in >80 countries.
• PMI offers >30 online communities for collaboration.
• PMI offers PMBOK® Guide, PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct, and Certifications.
• Find out more at www.pmi.org

Critical Success Factors

• Planning and communication are critical for project success, preventing and minimizing problems.
• Develop a well thought-out plan before project commencement is critical.
• Have a project with a clear and shared goal in agreement with your customer.
• Involve the sponsor, customer, and participants through active participation.
• Ongoing, clear, communication is key to success.
• Measure actual progress in accordance with your project deadlines.
• After completion of the project, review the overall performance.
• Understanding the cultures and customs of others shows respect, and builds trust.

Summary

• A project is an undertaking to achieve a specific goal by utilizing interrelated activities and resources effectively.
• Accomplishing the project objective successfully can be limited by scope, quality, schedule, budget, resources, risks, customer satisfaction, and stakeholder support.
• The project life cycle includes initiating, planning, performing, and closing.
• Project management involves planning, organizing, coordinating, leading, and controlling resources to meet objectives.
• The process involves establishing a plan and then executing it.
• Globalization introduces complexity due to cultural differences and multinational economic transactions.
• The Project Management Institute (PMI) serves as a worldwide association for project management professionals.
• The ultimate goal is a satisfied customer.
• Project Management includes being paid by them to perform a stated project.