Chapter 1& 2 Ideas (June 12- June 18)

Sorry for the late. I just received the book I ordered this week.



Chapter 1&2 Ideas


1. It is said that project management is both an art and a science. There is no doubt that the best project manager is a great leader. I think besides the intangible leadership qualities, which vary from different person, the certain five common characters consistently found on successful projects indicated in the book are also very important. They are agreement upon, a plan, effective communication, a controlled scope and the management support.


2. A project has a beginning and an end, and should produce a unique product. In other words, a project is temporary and unique, so it requires very good management. And some important challenges that handled by the project managers are personnel, estimating, authority and controls.


3. Talking about the independence of the project, I agree with the book that project manager is not independent. Project managers are involved in the business management skills, including negotiating, finance, communication, and motivation. It will make a project go smoothly if the manager could combine the project management, business management and technical very well.


4. Another important point is the project life cycle. A standard project life cycle includes define, plan, execute, and close out. And the first two stages: define and plan cannot be overemphasized. According to the book, although these two phases only represent 1o percent or less of the total effort, they are essential in preparing the team for efficient performance during the execution phase.