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<\/p>\n\n\n\nProject management isn\u2019t exclusive to business organizations\u2014we actually practice project management every day in our lives! We run daily errands, balance work and play, repair household appliances when they break, arrange meetups with friends, and so much more. All these are also a form of project management.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In a business setting, project management can have multiple aspects depending on the organisation and its industry. Ultimately, it always aids a team in achieving a goal, or solving an issue by a specific deadline. Management skills are the basis of every project!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Regardless of whether you\u2019re working on a large corporate project with multiple departments, or a small university project with teammates, a thorough understanding of the project management life cycle is incredibly important. To keep your project structured and on track from start to finish, let\u2019s go through the four phases of the project management life cycle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most individuals go through the same four phases of project management, whether you\u2019re building a website, designing graphics or publishing advertisements – planning, build-up, implementation, and closeout. While each of these phases has its own distinct qualities, they tend to overlap quite frequently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here’s a rundown of each phase and the activities that usually go along with it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Initiation<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The first step involves identifying a business need, problem, or opportunity, then moving onto generating ideas and concepts to meet those needs, solve that problem, or capitalize on that opportunity. Again, this can be done as an individual or with team members that share the same organizational goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This step is all about project planning\u2014determining a project\u2019s goal and determining if it\u2019s viable. The primary deliverables of the project should be identified in this phase, along with the scope and resources needed to achieve these deliverables. Clarify what stakeholders are expecting out of this potential project, and run through the possible risks that could impact the project and its outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This is a critical stage in the project’s development. Without a clear understanding of what has to be accomplished and why, the project faces the danger of failing to achieve its ultimate goals and stakeholders’ expectations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Preparation<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Now we move onto the \u2018how\u2019 of the project, the planning phase\u2014these are the measures you\u2019ll take to achieve the project goals. You enter this phase once the project has been cleared to proceed forward based on your business proposal, Gantt chart, or project initiation agreement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In this phase, you will need to break down the project into smaller tasks, and if needed, assemble your project team to help out. Create a suitable timeline for completing these tasks, and set smaller objectives within the overall project. It is important to ensure that these objectives are feasible within the projected time frame; don\u2019t overlook the importance of time management in project management!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Calculating and projecting risk, putting in place change processes, and laying out communication protocols are all part of this step. Here are some handy steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Execution<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The project has gotten full approval at this phase-the strategy has been laid out, the team has been assembled, and the budgets are a go. It\u2019s time to get down to business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In this phase, the plan is put into full swing. Your job as a project manager here is to keep tasks on track, ensure the team members are working efficiently, monitor important timelines, and move the project forward towards success as planned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While this phase is generally the most rewarding because work is being visually completed, it may also serve as the most frustrating one as the managing process can be tedious. You have to tackle situations such as potential technical risks in project management, and be prepared to explore alternative solutions if necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The execution phase may involve the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Executing the project will be a lot easier if you already have a well-documented methodology in place. Always keep track of things in the project management software of your choice!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Closure<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Evidently, both short-term and long-term projects all come to an end. You offer final deliverables, release project resources, and assess the project’s success. The project manager’s job isn’t done just because the major project work is finished; there are still vital things to accomplish, such as reviewing what worked and what didn’t with the project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As a project manager, how do you ensure that each project closes successfully?<\/p>\n\n\n\n Compare your progress to the scope that was agreed upon at the start. This will show you how well the project has gone\u2014and whether or not there is still work to be done. If the project has gone according to plan, it\u2019s time to celebrate!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Whatever the conclusion, make sure you have time set up for a post-evaluation\u2014a time to debrief and document the process so that the entire value of the lessons learned can be shared. Even if there are some bumps along the road, it’s still crucial to acknowledge the team’s efforts and accomplishments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Woman](\"https:\/\/lh5.googleusercontent.com\/VCXNsbKVxM1Z82Oc1R-hZpJEUv805xvVIvWCMyMPfTNzHmy-M_gaN9lWyRxmii0JvPCl1P178DBSTDX5tEQn0HzjwQeZTMC80yo8_7HFywQxFHMIE9a8D97Hft2iVFYxqSn8MhiIs76CJhTjYQ\")
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