Introduction to Project Management
Project Management is about planning, executing, and overseeing projects to achieve specific goals within set limits, like time, cost, and scope. It involves defining what needs to be done, scheduling tasks, budgeting, managing resources, and ensuring quality. Key aspects include managing risks, communicating effectively, and engaging stakeholders to ensure the project meets its objectives.
Projects typically go through five stages: initiation, planning, execution, monitoring and controlling, and closure. During initiation, the project is broadly defined. In planning, detailed schedules and budgets are created. Execution is when the plan is put into action. Monitoring and controlling ensure the project stays on track, and closure wraps up all activities and finalizes deliverables.
Various methods and tools help manage projects, such as Waterfall, Agile, and Lean. Tools like Gantt charts, Critical Path Method (CPM), and Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) assist in planning and tracking progress. A project manager, who leads the team and oversees the project, needs strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. By using these methods and tools, project goals can be achieved efficiently and effectively.