David Morey 
Project management is a structured approach to planning, organising, and guiding project processes from start to finish. It involves applying knowledge, skills, and techniques to meet project requirements effectively and efficiently. The primary challenge for a project manager is to achieve all of the project goals within the prescribed constraints, such as scope, time, and budget. The balancing act includes critical management of tasks, resources, and stakeholders to ensure successful project completion.
Throughout the project lifecycle from initiation to planning, executing, monitoring, controlling, and closure— a project manager utilises various methodologies and tools to deliver results. Effective project management results in a final deliverable that meets the set objectives and often results in significant benefits for the organisation. It is an endeavour that requires a blend of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and communication skills to lead a team towards a common goal.
Project management has broad applications across industries and encompasses several core skills, including leadership, risk management, communication, and problem-solving abilities. It’s not only about following a set process but also about being agile and adaptive when project dynamics change. Fostering teamwork, overseeing project timelines, and ensuring quality outputs are all within the domain of project management. For professionals and organisations seeking a strategic partnership in portfolio management, companies like Projectum offer specialised services that cater to the needs of a Project Management Office (PMO).
Core Aspects of Project Management
Effective project management hinges on methodical planning, meticulous execution, and the successful delivery of project deliverables that align with business goals and stakeholder expectations.
Planning and Organising Projects
The planning phase is crucial in setting a solid foundation for the project. It involves establishing the project scope and clearly defining objectives. A comprehensive project plan should include:
● Goals: Outlining what the project is set to achieve.
● Resources: Identifying what is needed in terms of time, money, personnel, and technology.
● Gantt Chart: Deploying tools such as a Gantt chart for visualising project schedule.
● Risk Management: Anticipating potential risks and planning mitigation strategies.
Project management software plays a pivotal role in organising all these aspects into a cohesive plan.
Executing and Controlling Projects
During execution, the focus shifts to inducing project progress by guiding the team to meet project requirements. Key activities include:
● Execution: Deploying resources effectively and ensuring that tasks are being carried out according to the plan.
● Monitoring: Continuously tracking the progress against the plan using tools and metrics.
● Stakeholders: Keeping all stakeholders informed and involved in necessary decisions.
Controlling involves adjusting plans and resources as needed to keep the project on track towards its objectives.
Closing and Delivering Value
Upon achieving project goals and finalising all activities, the closure phase involves:
● Evaluation: Assessing overall performance against initial objectives and learning from project deliverables.
● Benefits Realisation: Ensuring that the project’s outcomes contribute tangible benefits to the business.
● Stakeholder Satisfaction: Delivering value to stakeholders to reaffirm trust and support for future projects.
Closure also sets the stage for the organisation to leverage project results for continued improvement and success.
