5 Steps to Successful Project Management
Project Management is an area that many companies, consultants, and contractors and even corporations with internal projects can benefit from, not to mention even in your personal life.
Over the years networks and ERP Software have become more complex, with new integrations and functionalities within these ERP systems. Gone are the days when the ERP system was simple to install, implement and train users on the basic functionality of the system. For many years, there were limited choices and limited ways of expanding the ERP system. Today with Custom Office, Custom Programming, Enhancements and Third Party integrations, there are many more options. Most projects, even an upgrade, would not have a chance to be successful without a good plan. With more options, more complexities and more potential for what the system can do, project management skills are crucial to communicate project status, deadlines and deliverables. As ERP systems expand in complexity, so does the task of project management.
As I mentioned, everyone can benefit from a project plan. As I look at my own personal life, I realize how important Project Management is, because I am in the middle of a kitchen remodel. While I do have a trusted contractor, I have also had to call to order my own Project Management meetings to ensure that the project plan for my remodel was on track.
Below are my recommendations on how to implement Project Management within any project in the workplace or home:
- Define Objectives & Set Expectations
What are you planning to do? Each project must have a clearly defined objective. Before simply moving forward and completing a task, it’s better to set the expectations and goals of the project overall. - List the Tasks
What are we going to do to complete this objective? Break up the project into phases, so you can work within stages of a project. It is also very important to clearly define the roles and responsibilities of everyone involved. - Clearly State The Cost
The question always asked is, “how much is this going to cost me?” Make sure to set the budget before the project begins. I recommend determining how much each of the tasks is going to cost. - Define a Timeframe
When can I expect this all to be completed? I always make sure to set the timeframe of what I should expect and when. With my kitchen remodel, my home cooked dinners are relying on this answer. This step can be challenging to adhere to, because the scope or requirements of a project can change, but this is also one of the most important steps. In order to maintain on schedule, always keep your project plan up to date. - Always Continually Revisit the Project Plan
Make sure to have periodic reviews of your project. It is always important to make sure the project is on task for meeting the requirements and timeframe. Keeping the key stakeholders involved and in the loop on progress keeps the lines of communication open, which leads to a successful project.
These 5 steps are what all clients want to know, regardless of the task or project. Having good Project Management skills allows all parties involved in a project to understand the many tasks, timelines, requirements and expectations of that project. This really means someone with expertise has thought about the end game and had an in-depth understanding of the project, in order to lay out a plan. Communication and maintaining a project management plan are the keys to a successful project.
Written by Ron Peterson, General Manager at DSD Business Systems
