This introductory course provides practical insight into the core methods and strategies behind modern project management. You will learn the five phases of the project lifecycle: Initiation, Planning, Execution, Monitoring, and Closing, with a deeper focus on Initiation and Planning. During these early stages, you will practice selecting projects, creating a project charter, defining scope, interpreting diagrams and charts, and applying technical concepts such as float and resource management.
The course also examines the role of an effective Project Manager, including essential skills, delegation approaches, and methods for managing change. It concludes with an overview of key project management tools, professional associations, and certifications, along with a slide deck featuring hands-on exercises. This course is ideal for those seeking a clear introduction or a practical refresher on project management concepts, methodologies, and best practices.
What You Will Learn
- Learn the five phases of project management with an emphasis on Initiation and Planning
- Understand essential foundational concepts and common project management terminology
- Explore how projects are selected, defined, planned, scheduled, and resourced
- Become familiar with the key responsibilities, skills, and qualities of a Project Manager
Course Outline
Project Fundamentals
What is a Project?
Characteristics of Projects
The Project Triangle
The Project Lifecycle
What is a Gantt Chart?
Project Management Methodologies
Brief Overview of Methodologies (Waterfall, Agile, etc.)
The Initiating Phase
Project Identification
Project Selection
Project Charter
Project Scope
The Planning Phase
Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)
Task Responsibility
Defining Activities
Sequencing Activities
Network Diagram
Estimating Activity Resources
Resource Management In the Planning Phase
Activity Resources
Resource-Constrained Planning
Resource Requirement Plan
Resource Utilization Plan
Start/Finish Times, Critical Path, and Slack
Establishing Project Start & Completion Times
Critical Path
Total Slack
Free Slack
The Project Manager
Project Manager Responsibilities
Project Manager Skills
Delegation
Managing Change
