Before we even begin, let us understand what a project is.
A project is any task that has an end goal. Consider a project as a huge task that is divided into smaller steps (mini-tasks), carried out individually or collaboratively & can also involve research or design.
What is project management?
Project management refers to managing teams and projects with the help of tools, processes, & methodologies. But much more than anything else, the things that make the project management efficient are the skills, knowledge & capabilities of the project managers.
Project management is one such profession that is not restricted to a specific industry.
It has its applications in every industry, be it real estate, healthcare, I.T., or marketing.
Who are project managers?
Well, it is simple, professionals who take up the responsibility to complete a given project are known as project managers. They are responsible for planning, procurement, and execution of the project with a defined scope.
But is that it? Nah, not at all. It may sound simple, but the truth is they need to establish project objectives and figure out the steps to move further (no matter how many) to achieve the defined goals. Along with it, they have to keep their teams organized, keep an eye on quality, bring in control measures if the existing quality doesn’t meet the standards, and make sure things are coming along the way they should.
What do project managers do?
Project managers are the most crucial person in any project. They are the ones who create the roadmap to execute the project.
Project managers stand at the center of the project team as they are ultimately in charge of the project. They attend and conduct the most important meetings, monitor the KPIs, and make all the crucial decisions, and they also keep all the different stakeholders involved in the project happy.
To know more specifics about what project managers actually do, let us have a look at their day-to-day tasks.
When managing a project, these are the six most important aspects that a project manager should keep in mind at all times:
- Scope
- Schedule
- Cost
- Risk
- Quality
- Benefits
Precisely, these are the key areas where a project manager has to be mindful. Their core tasks of planning, executing and controlling revolve around these six aspects.
A project manager runs on a double-edged sword. If the project becomes a success, they get appreciation & credit. However, if a project fails, they are the ones to take the blame and ultimately find a solution.
Stages of project management
Any project is completed in different phases. These phases when out together are called the project management lifecycle.
The project management lifecycle (5 Stages):
- Conception & Initiation
- Definition & Planning
- Launch & Execution
- Performance & Control
- Project Conclusion
What skills should a project manager have?
Are you considering a career in project management? Well, if you are, then I can assure you that it’s undoubtedly a great decision.
According to the project management institute or PMI, these are top skills that project managers must-have.
- Management, leadership, communication & people skills- They should be able to give direction, coach, & mentor their team. They should also be good in issue & conflict resolution, sound decision making, negotiation, communication, and team building.
- Fundamental knowledge of project management tools & techniques as per P.M.B.O.K. guide.
- Experience with managing teams, organizing work processes, strategy building, and defining requirements & timetables.
- Great interpersonal skills along with traits like flexibility, confidence, commitment, creativity & common sense.
- A P.M.P. certificate would be an added advantage.
How to start a career in project management?
Project management is indeed an amazing career path. But to have that amazing career, you will also need to put in huge efforts in upskilling and gaining the required certifications.
The very first thing is to keep an eye on all the ongoing changes and developments in the field. Then only start your career and after a while, once you have PMP Certification eligibility, do apply for PMP certification. It will fast-track your growth.
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