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A project manager is the person in charge of all aspects of the project. This person will not be responsible for all individual jobs within the project as it is not even likely that he or she is qualified to do each task. The project manager's main function is to be the final word in all decisions and take ownership for the project's success or failure, unless other obvious reasons exist for the outcome.
A successful project manager uses a variety of skills:
- He or she must be able to efficiently obtain information which is then used to make informed predictions and business decisions. The ability to thoroughly analyze, create and implement successful projects requires dedication and foresight. A very organized, self-disciplined individual with experience in presentations is well fitted to a managerial position. This kind of manager stands out as a team leader who inspires employees and at the same time effectively achieves positive communication with customers when needed.
- After the formalities of decision-making are over, the manager's hard work begins. Managers must envision the progress that should be made with an impartial eye. Adjustments may need to be made in the progress of goals and the effectiveness of actions.
- Team motivation and focus is essential and managers should be vigilant with these things as teamwork equals quality. Quality is pivotal in the overall progress of the project. If there are too many defects noted, the project manager should perform a fishbone analysis to find the root cause.
- Amidst all of this the manager has to keep an eye on time constrains and budgeting. A watchful eye for quality assurance will determine success or failure of any project. Effective planning eliminates actions not useful or damaging to the project.
- The project manager also must keep in mind project goals and to define a plan and manage change. Project goals, as well as plans for achieving them, must be developed. The processes must be managed without allowing the scope to range beyond project goals. Risks must be identified, and contingency plans must be available in case they are needed. Any changes in the scope of projects must be determined, costs estimated, and documented in writing with the client.
A successful project manager needs to have a lot of skills to manage his team. A realistic evaluation of the team's pluses and minuses is of great importance as this will help maximize results by utilizing the resources in the most efficient manner. Nobody likes an aggressive leader. A leader, in order to motivate his or her team, needs to be assertive with oodles of tact. A project manager has to be an effective communicator and also equally approachable. Harmony and clear lines of communication within the team are a measure of the project manager's success. The project schedule itself should be a team effort and not an authoritarian decision made by the project manager alone.
In 1969, the Project Management Institute, or PMI, came into existence. It was meant to ensure that project managers got the skills they needed for current success and future advancement. In 1981, PMI directors published a set of appropriate standards and guidelines. This frequently updated guide to project management is referred to as the PMBOK, and should be carefully reviewed by those who wish to be successful project managers.
Daiv Russell is a management and marketing consultant with Envision Consulting in Tampa, Florida. Consult these resources to learn more about Gantt Charting, Pert Charts and Project Management Software.
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