project managers is best to have
Reply1
I agree with your assessment regarding which of the two types of project managers is best to have. The Warrior type of manager does much better with seeing the project through to its completion. The bookkeeps type is more of the type of manager who would be best to have in the initial planning stages, or, to asses the metrics after the project is finished. The warrior is best at managing the project creep and adjusting the needed details to ensure completion. The bookkeeper persona can get in the way of the projects completion by slowing it down, creating new steps…Etc. We need more warriors and less bookkeepers as project managers. The three types of skills you discussed are without a doubt needed for a project manager to possess. Communication is the most importants. I agree completely with your pick and its ranking. Without communication a manager can not make sure team members are completing their assigned tasks, Clients are not consulted or advised of progress. Sometimes even lack of progress has to be communicated correctly in order to receive the necessary backing when there are problems on the way (and there always are) Sometimes permits need to be purchased, structural changes have to be followed due to a building code, or other constrictions come to light that require a project manager to communicate well either by verbally speaking, or in writing. The second you discussed is organizational skills. Very good pick too. Without organization nothing can be accomplished in accordance with a schedule. You have to first be able to put the plan in writing, or at least map out how it will be achieved. You then have to plan the workers, delegate specific duties, and organize other resources that will help you to finish on time, within budget, and in-line with the entire scope of the project. The third skill you mentioned is inclusive of the other two skills mentioned. You listed management skills as your third pick. If you have to only pick one skill set, listing management skills would be the best broad term to use. I suggest that if budgeting seem to be the skill that you are having the most difficulty with; or seems like you would have the most difficulty accomplishing try to look at what other managers in the role of project manager at a particular business do – what steps do they follow? Sometimes watching how others conduct the process will help you by giving you a general guideline to follow. I have personally worked in the capacity of project manager and to be honest sometimes budgeting isn’t a factor that you need to consider. I have had projects where I had to adjust the purchase of computer products to fit the allocated budget, or schedule less labor to comply with a certain established figure; however, sometimes those who control the project (above the project manager) are the ones who will make budgeting adjustments – depends. I would also suggest paying attention to everything in this class. The information you learn will be invaluable to you once in the field planning your project. You will know where to start, what steps you can take if needed along the way, and other important areas of interest. Learning from class, and hands-on in the field will prepare you for all aspects of project management. Also when in the field working make sure to consult those who are experienced and have already encountered all the possible problems before you start. You can never have enough information. There are factors that are specific to each project, sector, and, exact business. Its difficult to follow an exact paradigm for everything. Knowing the basics and adjusting as factors change seems to work best from my previous experiences. Scott B. Wohl
Response
Thank you for exceptional additions on the characteristics of the two types of managers as well as on the project management skills. Firstly, I agree with you that we need more warriors and less bookkeepers as project managers. We need project managers can not only oversee the process of documentation of details of the project but also one who are able to pinpoint various issues when they crop up and work relentlessly to come up to provide solution and keep the project on track to successful completion.
On the aspect of budgeting, as a management skill, it is imperative to note that the budgeting is really practical aspect of planning but not theoretical. The manager needs to be cognizant of various aspects of the steps of projects, resources needed and their costs. Essentially , the manager may have to gather historical data and reach out to other experts besides keeping updating the budgets with time.
Reply2
I really liked how you explained the responsibilities of a project manager and the differences between the bookkeeper and warrior. Do you think that you currently have some or both of the skill sets of these types of project managers? I myself find that I am a great note taker (from all of the classes I have taken) but I am also very tasked oriented and know how to accomplish completing a project based on timing. With the different phases in project management cycle I think it is possible to have some traits from both managers. I agree with your three type of skills a project manager must possess, communication is very important along with organization and management. I have noticed that some managers that are very organized you can tell the difference in their management style. As opposed to the managers that are able to manage at the seat of their pants. Organization skills do not come easy for me and it is something that I would actively work on. I see that you mentioned management and budgetary skills are some key items you would like to work on. The cost aspect is a major part of any project and it needs to be managed with in the scope of work required. I believe most customers would like to accomplish a project under budget if possible but at times I am sure it is not always feasible. I enjoyed reading your post and look forward to communicating with you more throughout the semester. Tiffany Pickett
Responses
Thank you for the more highlights on how management and organizations skills are crucial for a project manager. I agree with you that budgeting, an aspect of management skills, is critical in assessing the project feasibility. A manager needs to communicate to the top management and stakeholders showing why such a project is justifiable. On the other hand, organization skills will be also crucial for ensuring timely and successful completion of the project. He or she needs to achieve the goals within the time frame. Organization skills prevents wastages and controls aspects that might become counterproductive. It is imperative to ensure the managers holds meetings regularly to update on project progress, status, and any risks that resurfaces. This incorporates organization skills, as he needs to keep time schedule besides documenting every step of the project. Additionally, I would aspire to be a ‘warrior’ project manager- that is being able to pinpoint risks, issues as they occur , and working relentlessly to over come them.
Reply3
Being fiscally responsible can be overwhelming and budgeting can be intimidating to many people. I think of that is where part of the bookkeeper comes into play. Keeping track of expenses as the project moves along will keep you on up to date on what has been spent – just like budgeting at home with all the utilities bills and such just usually a much larger amount. You can only spend what you have coming in and sometimes shopping “sales” is where you go to get the items. Like Scott stated, sometimes you have to purchase a different product to stay within the budget. As you gain experience and develop relationship with vendors, shopping around becomes much easier and some of the vendors will negotiate prices to help keep you within budget and maintain your business.
Response
Thank you for the addition on how critical budgeting is to project management. In need, I appreciate that possessing the budgeting skill is essential for ensuring a well-configured budget. A project manager would employ the budgeting skill to accurately come up with detailed estimates of costs corresponding to each need, and this helps save time and energy that would be devoted to making amendments or updates to initial budgets. Worth noting, budgets are fundamental in the planning phase of company’s projects as managers would be interested how much resources need to deployed from the project inception to completion while control and preventing unnecessary costs. As a matter of fact , without budgeting , there would be lack of control of finances and planning would be futile, hence project objectives would not be achieved.
