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Project management: Qualifying laps or navigating unknown roads? (1/2)

Do you manage projects like professionals driving Formula cars in qualifying laps? Everything runs smoothly in races with precise timing, and tasks are handled efficiently and effectively in the pit lane by the team. Or does project management feel like constantly drifting onto bumpy side roads where problems require continuous fixing? With a finely tuned vehicle in project management, races are won, and the checkered flag waves as projects reach the finish line. Victory is determined by the right tools, innovative solutions, and automation. Maintaining peak performance, projects are managed centrally and professionally from start to finish.

The formula races of project management

Project management is the management of a defined entity towards a set goal, where each team member has a predefined task to take care of. There are several phases in project management that help organize and plan the project efficiently. These phases form a comprehensive process of planning, execution, and monitoring, which can vary depending on the size and nature of the project. Typically, the main phases of project management are:

1. Planning and Definition

2. Initiation

3. Execution and Testing

4. Monitoring and Control

5. Completion

In the planning phase, there are predefined pit stops and tasks for team members, objectives, and a schedule for completing the tasks. The first tasks are started according to the plan, and the project team together ensures the functionality of the plan as the project progresses. During the execution phase, it is crucial to communicate with other team members and inform them about changes and decisions related to the project. The entire project team monitors and ensures that everything in the project proceeds as planned. Potential risks should be identified already in the planning phase, and a contingency plan should be made for the project and its advancement. As the final lap begins and the finish line approaches, it is checked that everything has been done according to the plan and that the end result meets the expectations. After the race, performances are evaluated and the winner is declared. In the post-race analysis, the project’s progress can be reviewed, and improvements can be identified for the next time.

Route planning and preparations

Project management is like a planned journey where each team member plays a significant role. It guides doing the right things at the right time and ensures that everyone knows what to do when facing challenges. Therefore, centralized project management makes the execution of larger tasks systematic and smart, helping to achieve goals as planned.

In the planning phase, goals and tasks are defined, a schedule is created, and resources are planned. The goals to be achieved by the project and the tasks required to accomplish them are listed. A schedule is created that outlines when each task will be performed, and the necessary people, budget, and other resources are allocated. The necessary people for the project are selected, and their roles are defined. Each team member’s responsibilities and tasks must be precisely defined so that the team can move efficiently from the pit stops.

The starting signal and the beginning of the journey

When initiating a project, all team members are introduced to the project and informed about its goals, tasks, and expectations. Once the project has received the starting signal, it begins to progress based on the created plan. At each pit stop, every team member performs their tasks as planned and on schedule, allowing the work to continue smoothly. Each project member ensures that their own tasks can be completed on time, enabling other team members to advance their tasks according to the schedule.

Competition and pit stops

During the execution phase of the project, it’s crucial for everyone to stay tuned and informed via radio communication about progress and any deviations. The project sets interim goals and schedules, aiming for critical tasks to be completed by specific milestones. These milestones must be achieved for the project to stay on track. If a critical task is delayed, the entire project will be delayed unless another critical task can be completed ahead of schedule.

If a black flag is raised as a pit stop signal, corrective actions are necessary. As the project progresses, it’s essential to manage risks and identify those that could impact the project’s success and its ability to reach the finish line on time. Risk management aims to anticipate and prepare for potential obstacles during the project. If changes occur during the project execution, it’s important to ensure that they do not adversely affect the project’s objectives and its progress.

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