Introduction to project Management

What is a project ?

A project is a temporary endeavor undertaken to create a unique product, service or result. Project Characteristics Temporary- Every project has a definite beginning and definite end Unique products, services, or results Progressive Elaboration

Projects vs. Operational Work

Operations are on going and repetitive, while projects are temporary and unique. The purpose of a project is to attain its objective and then terminate. Conversely, the objective of an ongoing operation is to sustain the business. Project concludes when its specific objectives have been attained, while operations adopt a new set of objectives and work continues.

Examples of projects

Developing a new product or service Designing a new transportation vehicle Constructing a building Building a water system for a community Running a campaign for a political office Implementing a new business procedure or process Developing or acquiring a new or modified information system

Projects and Strategic Planning

Projects are a means of organizing activities that can not be addressed within the organization's normal operational limits. Projects are therefore, often utilized as a means of achieving an organizations strategic plan, whether the project team is employed by the organization or is a contracted service provider. Strategic considerations Market Demand ( e.g. a cement company authorizes a project to build new cement silos for cement storage in North & East) An organizational need ( e.g. A training company authorizes a project to create a new course to increase its revenue
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Projects and Strategic Planning (Contd)

Strategic considerations Market Demand ( e.g. a cement company authorizes a project to build new cement silos for cement storage in North & East) An organizational need ( e.g. A training company authorizes a project to create a new course to increase its revenue A customer request ( e.g. CEB authorizes a project to build new substation to serve a new industrial park) A technological advance (e.g. A logistics company authorizes an e commerce application project) A legal requirement (e.g. A paint manufacturer authorizes a project to establish guidelines for the handling of toxic materials)
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What is Project Management

Project management is the application of knowledge, skills, tools and techniques to project activities to meet project requirements. Project management is accomplished through the application and integration of the project management process of initiating, planning, executing, monitoring and controlling and closing. Project manager is the person responsible for accomplishing the project objectives.

What is Project Management

Managing projects includes Identifying requirements Establishing clear and achievable objectives Balancing the competing demands for quality, scope, time and cost Adapting the specifications, plans, and approach to the different concerns and expectations of the various stakeholders

Power Dimensions of the Project Manager

According to Dr. Kerzner, Project Managers are generally known for having a lot of delegated authority but very little formal power. They must, therefore, get jobs done through the use of interpersonal influences.

Team Leadership

Team barriers Project team selection Team structure Team building sessions Team commitment Trust and respect

Project objectives Planning Scope management Project staffing Problem avoidance

Team Leadership
Organization

Management commitment (for providing resources) Senior management support (to ensure visibility) Organizational environment Organizational development specialists
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