COMPGZ09 Project Management Definitions Lecture 1 Graham Collins, UCL graham.collins@ucl.ac.uk

Purpose of the course Help plan projects Understand how the process selected is important and is often the basis for project management How the selection of project management methods is an asset not an overhead Create ‘buy-in’ from your team, supervisor and potential employers and research funding bodies.

What is a project? Typically a unique set of activities. Although many of the activities may not be new it is however the combination of activities makes this unique. Projects are instigated to achieve beneficial change Limited by time, cost and performance (the term specification is sometimes used) Typically delivered by team with a project manager. Although projects are delivered by individuals as well this course concentrates on small team dynamics.

Project Management, a Definition ‘Planning, monitoring and control of all aspects of a project and the motivation of all those involved in it to achieve the project objectives on time and to the specified cost, quality and performance.’ British Standard 6079 -1: 2000

Project management is regarded as the most efficient way to introduce beneficial change Defining what has to be accomplished, generally in terms of time cost and various technical and quality parameters. Developing a plan and working through this ensuring progress is maintained. Using appropriate project management techniques and tools to plan, monitor and maintain progress. Employing skilled project management staff, including a project manager who are given responsibility for introducing the change and are accountable for the successful implementation. Based on Project Management pathways edited by Stevens, M. APM, 2002

Roles and Responsibilities - Project Sponsor Appoint project manager Ensuring the project is and continues to be a viable proposition Signing off / accepting the outputs of the project Resolving issues outside the mandate of the project manager Chairing the Project Board or Steering Committee.

Roles and Responsibilities - Project Manager Benefit focused Build in quality Manage risks and issues Exploiting enablers and removing blockers Exploiting resources available Key responsibilities: Provide single point of responsibility Define and plan the project Create the temporary organisation Manage stakeholders Monitor and control all aspects including risk, opportunities, issues, scope change, benefits etc. Ensure project objectives are delivered on time, to specified cost and quality Manage the hand-over and close down the project

Fundamental steps in Project Management Define the project Design the project Develop / build the solution Test the solution Implement the solution Review the project Close the project