Managing Projects (HBR 20-Minute Manager Series)

Harvard Business School Press

Physical

In Circulation

You've been asked to manage a key project--or perhaps you've volunteered for an assignment that could advance your career. So how do you make sure the project succeeds? Managing Projects walks you quickly through the basics, including: Drawing up a realistic schedule and project plan Monitoring key tasks and benchmarks Communicating with stakeholders Bringing the project to a close Don't have much time?

Get up to speed fast on the most essential business skills with HBR's 20-Minute Manager series. Whether you need a crash course or a brief refresher, each book in the series is a concise, practical primer that will help you brush up on a key management topic. Advice you can quickly read and apply, for ambitious professionals and aspiring executives--from the most trusted source in business. Also available as an ebook.

What will you learn from this book

  1. lear Project Objectives: Define clear and achievable project objectives. Ensure everyone involved understands the project's purpose, scope, deliverables, and timelines.

  2. Detailed Planning: Develop a comprehensive project plan outlining tasks, timelines, resources required, dependencies, and milestones. Break the project into manageable phases for better control.

  3. Effective Communication: Establish clear communication channels among team members, stakeholders, and project sponsors. Regularly update and communicate project progress, issues, and changes.

  4. Risk Management: Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies. Regularly assess risks throughout the project lifecycle and be prepared to adapt plans if needed.

  5. Resource Allocation: Allocate resources effectively. Ensure that team members have the necessary skills and tools to fulfill their roles within the project.

  6. Stakeholder Engagement: Engage stakeholders throughout the project. Understand their expectations and concerns, and involve them in decision-making to maintain their support.

  7. Monitoring and Control: Monitor project progress against the plan regularly. Implement controls to track performance, identify variances, and take corrective actions promptly.

  8. Team Management: Foster a collaborative and supportive team environment. Encourage open communication, address conflicts, and recognize and reward team contributions.

  9. Flexibility and Adaptability: Be flexible and adaptable to changes. Projects often encounter unexpected challenges; the ability to pivot and adjust plans accordingly is crucial for success.

  10. Post-Project Evaluation: Conduct a thorough evaluation after project completion. Analyze successes, failures, and lessons learned. Documenting these insights helps improve future project management processes.

Language English
ISBN-10 9781625270832
ISBN-13 9781625270832
No of pages 144
Font Size Medium
Book Publisher Harvard Business Review Press
Published Date 11 Mar 2014

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