Project Management

Objectives
Gain an overview of the many facets of project management and the tools and techniques used. Understand the importance of financial control and the need for effective communication with senior management.

Course Content
Introduction to Project Management:
definition of project management
objectives of project management
scope and range of projects
the project manager and the team
relationship to business management
financial implication of project control
costing - actual and forecast.

Getting Started:
project definition
data collection
finding possible options
determining the best option.

Planning the Project:
the need for, and benefits of, planning
introduction to Network Analysis
drawing 'logic' diagrams
analysing 'logic' diagrams
finding the critical path
production of float diagrams and bar charts.

Controlling Projects Using Network Analysis:
a practical exercise during which particpants will control a project using Network Analysis techniques.

Resourcing:
resource allocation
resource histograms
multi-project activity
urgent versus important tasks.

Examining Common Problems:
categorising each problem
exploring methods and techniques for efficient and smooth problem solving
special dangers of project control.

The Human Aspects of Project Management:
ensuring effective communication throughout the team
running successful meetings
building successful teams
motivating the team
team briefing.

Course Summary and Open Forum:
a review of the main points and an opportunity for specific issues to be dealt with by the tutor.

Action Plan:
participants plan and discuss what they will do on return to work.


Competence Objectives
What you will be able to do better:


· Define a business project and understand how it differs from everyday
management tasks

· Set objectives that are clear and understood by you and other members of the project team

· Plan and organise the various stages of bringing a business project to a
satisfactory conclusion

· Motivate and gain the commitment of the project team

· Use a variety of project control techniques

· Manage and use your resources effectively in order to gain the best result

· Handle common problems that often occur when managing a business project.