1.1. Chapter Introduction
Learning Objectives
By the end of this chapter, you should be able to:
- Define the characteristics of a project.
- Compare the difference between traditional and Agile project management.
- Describe how program management differs from project management.
- Explain the three broad categories of projects.
- Explain the four phases of project management.
- Describe the documentation produced during the project initiation.
- Identify the importance and the purpose of project planning.
There is no greater example of the art and science of project management (PM) than those demonstrated in building the Pyramids of Egypt. Since then, builders and engineers have applied specific processes systematically, and these have evolved into PM. Today, in every field of work, PM is an essential practice to achieve project success. The objective, in general, is to establish and deliver the customer objectives in an organized and detailed manner. Whether the business is in production, construction, or service delivery, planning and carrying out a project requires clearly defined processes.
While the general management function may include many tasks, PM is specifically oriented toward processes and requires a specific set of tools and skills. When PM is performed correctly, organizations gain greatly. PM can reduce risk and improve the likelihood of success. It approaches tasks in an organized, detailed, and accountable way. Even when organizations have limited resources and a small chance of success, PM experts can help lead through recessions and economic uncertainty and ensure future strategic goals are met. Therefore, performing PM requires dedicated individuals with good discipline who understand the processes and are able to follow through to completion. Good project managers keep the project on track and ensure the alignment of project objectives within the strategic objectives of the organization.
The starting point in discussing how projects should be properly managed is first to understand what a project is and, just as importantly, what it is not.
“1.1. Chapter Introduction” & “3.1. Chapter Introduction” from Essentials of Project Management by Adam Farag is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted. Modifications: removed some learning objectives.-
