Project Management: Journey to Project Success

The Pyramid of Giza, Taj Mahal, The Great Wall of China, Taj, those are examples of successful projects in history, and proof that Project management practised ever since humans inhabited the earth. Unfortunately, there is very little documentation done on the skills and techniques to run such complex projects. In 1950s, project management was modernized, and project management tools, such as Gantt Charts and keeping of proper records for project activities, were systematically applied to projects carried out. Today, most people are involved in projects, direct or indirectly, during daily work and life. Many project managers have a wrong perception that any project completed on time and within budget is a successful project. This is NOT TRUE! A project completed on time and within budget, but if it DID NOT meet scope and stakeholder’s expectations, it is still a failed project.

Once a project initiated, proper planning with clearly defined objectives and scope is critical. A project without an objective is like driving without a destination, and you will be lost. There are five stages of Projects which have been introduced by Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBoK).

Excellent planning is essential for a successful project, but a plan without strategic and careful execution will remain as a grand plan forever. Project execution is the action or activities executed to achieve the project scope. It includes acquiring project teams, understanding and managing stakeholder’s expectations,  implementing risk responses, conducting procurement, etc.

Monitoring & Controlling are on-going activities throughout the project. The deviation between the plan and execution must be closely monitored during this stage. Systematic tools and technique need to be applied to control the changes or additional risks which occur during the execution. Projects can be closed, regardless if all activities had been completed, successfully or not, or cancelled as long as sponsors and all stakeholders agree with it. All data and knowledge of the project need to be properly documented and stored as a vital tool for traceability and input to the next project or activities.

Project management isn’t necessarily cool and easy, but with the right techniques and skills, it could be fun and enjoyable as well as meeting all scopes.  Humanology could be your virtual assistant to help and share secret strategies to enhance the success of projects. Please contact us to know more about our Project management course; lets make our project successful together!

By,
Ooi Wee Kheong, PMP