subject: It Project Management Tips For Success [print this page] The IT field is currently in the middle of a serious growth spurt. Efficient IT project management is the key to the success of any and every IT firm. However, not all IT projects are successful and this can more than often be a result of poor management of the various aspects of an IT project. Successful fruition of an IT project will involve planning, securing, organizing and managing of resources. If the project is not handled correctly, risks increase in areas such as meeting the client's requirements, time frame, etc., and may lead to total collapse of a project. IT project management services can provide you with the necessary tools and assistance for the successful completion of an IT project.
IT Project Management Tips from the Experts
Here are some tips from experts of successful IT project management.
* Understand the project's purpose: Understanding the IT project's purpose and how its outcome fits into the organization's overall strategic plan is one of the key aspects for the successful completion of a project. When the IT project management team understands how the success of the project is tied to the organization's strategic plans, they can easily garner the support at the senior levels that is needed for a successful project completion. Consistent senior level support will also provide the project with adequate resources essential to the success of the project.
* Be realistic: Often organizations take on major IT projects that are larger than any previous projects, getting the stakeholders excited and creating buzz for the organization. The excitement of a major IT project can cloud proper judgment as to the realities of a project's scope. This will have a direct effect on the project's budget, scope and schedule and can lead to unrealistic expectations with nearly insurmountable goals and failure as a result.
* Clearly define roles in the team: The responsibilities and roles of the members of an IT project management team need to be clearly defined for effective project management. The project manager will be responsible for creating project plans, measuring the project performance, taking corrective action, reporting project status and other such responsibilities. Similarly, the project sponsor's role will include initiating and overseeing the project as well as advising the project manager when required. Clear definition of roles will enable team members to know their duties and responsibilities without question or confusion.
* Work Breakdown Structure (WBS): For an easier process to unfold, when you break down the whole project do it in a hierarchical manner, detailing all the deliverables in a chronological order. This will also act as an efficient tool in helping to estimate project costs as well as in the budgeting process. As the project has been broken down into smaller sections, more accurate cost estimation is achieved.
