One of the biggest factors contributing to the success of a project is how effectively the project manager carries out the steps of implementing project. Managing a project is an orderly process that, if properly executed, will maximize project resources, enable effective communication among project personnel and the project's clients, and allow for the unexpected bumps along the way.
For the inexperienced project manager, it is essential that there be in place an implementation plan outlining the tasks needed to complete a project. The following is a brief guide to the basic steps of implementing a project. Project managers should keep in mind that all projects irregardless of industry and scope will follow the same basic structure.
Inexperienced Project Managers Should Seek Counsel
First-time project managers to should seek out someone who can help them through the process of completing the project. Ideally, this person should be someone within the company since such an individual may also benefit from the project and thus be more motivated to help. Where this is not possible, the manager should look for counsel from any individual who is experienced in project management in general. But this consultant should at least be familiar with the industry and/or type of project.
Inexperienced project managers can also try self-education and guidance by reading informative articles or attending a webinar.
New Project Managers Should Equip Themselves with Tools and Software
Project managers should try to build up a supporting project infrastructure. This includes: communications devices and software, computer hardware, and any software specific to project management, such as time management or project tracking tools.
A New Project Manager Must Clarify the Details of the Project
One of the first tasks a project manager must take care of is the creation of a project proposal. The project proposal should include the following information:
- A description of the project goals
- The project time frame
- The project budget
- A breakdown of the project team members and assigned tasks
- The methods used to complete the project
- How project uncertainties will be accounted and dealt with.
Project Managers Must Assign Job Responsibilities to Project Team Members
When a team of people is assigned to complete the project, then all members should be aware of their individual roles and duties. This job assignment plan is referred to as the work breakdown structure. Project managers should also establish a system of communication to ensure that project team members are updated regularly throughout the project schedule.
Monitoring Progress and Documenting Project Information
The project manager should have a system in place to measure the project's progress and efficiency. By doing so, the project manager will be able to determine whether additional information or resources are needed to complete the project, whether resource should be shifted around, and occasionally whether a new approach to the project should be taken. Project managers should focus on performance management and quality control, as well as how well the project personnel are sticking to the estimated time frame and monetary budget.
When it comes to documenting project information, producing clear and accurate documentation helps to ensure that all parties involved are aware of the project's goals, the time frame for project completion, the task agenda, and the budget throughout the duration of the project. The manager should also carefully record any project assessments, as well as any set-backs or changes that were initiated.
In short, by carrying out the steps of project implementation with a little planning and care, even inexperienced project managers can successfully bring a project to fruition.
Susan Brown - Susie Brown is a small business consultant and freelance writer specializing in business and personal finance.
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