Project Manager for an Engineering Firm: Job Description
As a project manager for an engineering firm, I am under no illusion whatsoever that my job will be an easy one. This is more so the case given the project intensive nature of engineering industries. In an attempt to enhance my understanding of my prospective job position, I come up with a detailed job description for the aforementioned position.
Job Description
oles and esponsibilities
Project managers for engineering firms are largely responsible for not only the development but also the supervision of various projects. They take the appropriate steps to ensure that the said projects observe a host of pre-determined conditions in relation to safety, quality as well as cost. A project manager's job description according to Lessard and Lessard (2007):
usually requires that the project manager define the scope of project, form a team, identify stakeholders, identify decision-makers, and establish escalation procedures should the project…...
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References
Kerzner, H. (2009). Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons.
Lessard, C. & Lessard, J. (2007). Project Management for Engineering Design. Colorado: Morgan & Claypool Publishers.
McKenna, E. (2000). Business Psychology and Organizational Behavior: A Student's Handbook (3rd ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Taylor & Francis.
Project manager scenario: How to 'fix' the project
It has come to our attention that a number of our employees have resigned from a recent project and have created their own company with the funding of a competitor. The first consideration we must discuss is a legal one, namely that company secrets might be used in their new effort. "A non-disclosure agreement is a written legal contract between an employer and employee. The non-disclosure agreement lays out binding terms and conditions that prohibit the employee from disclosing company confidential and proprietary information… [including but not limited to] proprietary knowledge, trade secrets, client or product information, strategic plans, and other information that is confidential and proprietary to the company with competitors" (Heathfield 2013). There are serious concerns that the employees may have violated their agreement, and the legal staff should be consulted to protect the interests of the firm.
In addition to the…...
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Bibliography
Heathfield, S. 2013. Non-disclosure agreement. Available:
There is a delicate balance there between natural leadership abilities and office politics, and the employee who crosses it often finds himself or herself ostracized from the group because of the idea that he or she tried to 'take over' the group. In truth, though, that take over had to come from somewhere if the project was to be completed on time and correctly.
A project can be completed without strong leadership, but with what kind of quality as the result? Projects without strong leaders are not as good. They do not have as much thought put into them, and people do not make enough of an effort to ensure that they are done correctly. They can make a break a department or a company if they are big projects that are undertaken or presented to others. They need good leaders who will stay around and see them through.
What is…...
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Bibliography
Gray, Clifford F. & Larson, Erik W. (2006). Project Management: The Managerial Process 3rd Edition, Mc-Graw Hill, Inc. ISBN: 0-07-297863-5
project manager, what is your opinion about risk-Taking?
It is impossible to characterize risks as 'good' or 'bad.' The question is if the risks of the project are outweighed by the potential gains the project may offer. "Taking big risks can be beneficial to a firm that is able to accept them because it enables opportunity. For this reason, risk must be defined as including the probability of both good and bad outcomes" (Kwak & LaPlace 2005: 691). Risk-taking is an essential component of business, given that the future is always unknown. Yet the project manager must do all he or she can plan for likely future scenarios to mitigate unnecessary risks and ensure that the risks that are undertaken are likely to benefit the organization, improve its fortunes, and cause minimal harms.
It is vital that risk-taking does not become a 'cover up' for sloppy planning. Allowing a project to…...
Project Managers Oversee Virtual Project Teams in the Manufacturing Industry with Consideration for Effective Communication
The researcher has taken this matter ' How Can Project Managers Oversee Virtual Project Teams in the Manufacturing Industry with Consideration for Effective Communication' since the researcher has felt there was a growing demand in project management to address this concern.
Thanks to a rising global competition, today's companies are no longer limited by geographic location. Globalization drives a lot of companies into developing markets and low income nations so that they can take advantage of their intellectual capital, and minimize the cost of operation. A recent study by the Garner Group, states that by the year 2008, 41 million corporate employees will work in a virtual workplace at least one day per week [Wikipedia, www.wikipedia.com, "Virtual Teams"]. In this literature review we will look at the challenges of the virtual team communication in the manufacturing…...
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Benefits and Draw Back of Virtual Team:
Throughout the last decade, words such as "virtual," "virtualization," "virtualized" have been very often advocated by scholars and practitioners in the discussion of social and economic issues Wakefield, R., Leidner, D., & Garrison, G. 2008) but the advantages and pitfalls of virtual team is concealed. The availability of a flexible and configurable base infrastructure is one of the main advantages of agile virtual teams. Anderson et al. (2007) suggest that the effective use of communication, especially during the early stages of the team's development, plays an equally important role in gaining and maintaining trust. Virtual R&D teams which members do not work at the same time or place (Stoker et al., 2001) often face tight schedules and a need to start quickly and perform instantly (Munkvold and Zigurs, 2007). Virtual team may allow people to collaborate more productivity at a distance, but the tripe to coffee corner or across the hallway to a trusted colleague is still the most reliable and effective way to review and revise a new idea (Gassmann and Von Zedtwitz, 2003a).
As a drawback, virtual teams are particularly vulnerable to mistrust, communication break downs, conflicts, and power struggles (Rosen et al., 2007). On the other hand, virtual teams reduce time-to-market (May and Carter, 2001). Lead time or time to market has been generally admitted to be
Following the discussion presented in the paragraphs here above, we may conclude that, as a risk factor, a decision made by the customer that would imply modifying the initial requirements of the projects would have direct implications in terms of time, resources and scope used on the project, mainly due to the need to relocate and rethink the original plan of the project, increasing time and human resource initially spent on it.
8. Two of the main issues that project management and project managers face in term of projects are related to falling behind schedule and to over budgeting. The Earned Value Analysis solution is an excellent way to deal with both at the same time. The EAV measures the way a project has evolved through its different phases and helps forecast the eventual cost at deadline, along with the variances that may occur along the way.
Project Management and Business Strategy
How and why project managers need to be able to contribute to business strategy?
Every complex organization engaged in commercial activity relies heavily on the support systems designed, implemented and supervised by project managers, because "the project manager ensures that the project, once defined, is executed efficiently by managing the day-to-day activites, reporting directly to the client on project related issues" (Pellegrinelli and Bowman, 1994, pp. 125-132). The overall strategic objectives outlined by members of an executive management structure require adept project management to ensure that deadlines are met in timely fashion, budgetary restrictions are adhered to, and deliverables conform to the specifications provided by clients. Within the specific field of information technology (IT) project management, the use of quality control and quality assurance (QC / QA) programs involves the precise application of numerous tools, techniques, principles and practices designed to ensure that IT projects prioritize quality…...
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References
Goel, V. And Pirolli, P. 1989. Motivating the notion of generic design within information-processing theory: The design problem space. AI magazine, 10 (1), p. 19. [Accessed: 14 Sep 2013].
Mintzberg, H. 1994. Rethinking strategic planning part I: Pitfalls and fallacies. Long-Range
Planning, 27 (3), pp. 12-21. [Accessed: 14 Sep 2013].
Pellegrinelli, S. And Bowman, C. 1994. Implementing strategy through projects. Long-Range
Project Manager vs. Product Owner
What are the differences in organizational structure?
TPM (Traditional Project Management practices) projects adhere to a very thorough plan which is formulated prior to doing any work on the venture. The basis of this plan is the notion that the solution or goal is explicitly defined at the outset. Aside from small deviations brought about by requests for change, the project goes along the plan, and the solution is attained. This approach's success is founded on accurate goal specification in the project definition phase and preliminary scoping activities.
APF (adaptive project framework) projects also keep to a comprehensive plan; however, this plan is not developed at the project's onset. ather, it is developed in steps, as each cycle defining the project's life cycle attains completion. Project timeframe and budget are laid down at the beginning. Following each cycle's completion, the client as well as project team review the…...
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References
Cagle, R. B. (2003). Blueprint for project recovery: a project management guide: the complete process for getting derailed projects back on track. AMACOM Div American Management Assn.
Vellani, K. (2006). Strategic security management: a risk assessment guide for decision makers. Butterworth-Heinemann.
Wysocki, R. K. (2014). Effective project management: Traditional, agile, extreme. Indianapolis, Ind: Wiley.
Project Management and Information Systems
Project managers can assist in the organization of information systems, which in turn can aid businesses in integrating security and infrastructural needs to facilitate business objectives. Indeed, a business user can be directly involved in the core activities of building an information system. Software development methodologies (such as agile development) are just one example of the type of means by which project managers can apply themselves to the task of organizing IS in order to benefit both IS development and the business's own infrastructure. Thus, project/IT managers can ensure that IS development projects are aligned with business strategies and goals by providing oversight, leadership, direction and integrative formulas for success. This paper will examine each of these points to show that project management, information systems development, and business organization are overlapping issues that are central to every firm's overall progress.
As Mir and Pinnington (2014) show, the…...
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References
Collier, K. (2011). Agile Analytics: A Value-Driven Approach to Business Intelligence
and Data Warehousing. NY: Pearson.
Haes, S., Grembergen, W. (2009). Exploratory study in IT governance implementations and its impact on business/IT alignment. Information Systems Management, 26: 123-137.
Heagney, J. (2012). Fundamentals of Project Management. NY: Amacom.
Teams should also work together to negotiate key issues so everyone will interact in a smooth manner working in a "linear fashion" toward the project goals and objectives (Hansen, 103).
How Threats Create A Cohesive Team
Significant threats, including those imposed by war or natural disaster, often bring team members together into a cohesive unit, more so than at other times. Teams come together when faced with significant threats such as this because they are uniting under a common cause and condition; typically the threat puts each member equally at risk, and team members recognize the importance of pulling together as a unit to overcome a natural disaster (Green & Knippen, 1999). The source of cohesiveness is often recognition of a common threat and common goals and objectives, namely to overcome the particular threat.
Once a threat has passed team members may either remain cohesive or fall back into dysfunctional patterns. Much…...
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References:
Achampong, F. (1999). Workplace sexual harassment law: Principles, landmark developments, and framework for effective risk management. Westport: Quorum Books.
Decarlo, D., Lewis, J.P. & Wysocki, R.K. (2001). The world-class project manager: A
professional development guide. Cambridge: Perseus Publishing.
Green, T.B. & Knippen, J.T. (1999). Breaking the barrier to upward communication:
Due in part to globalization, businesses around the world now require a large degree of project management and innovation. Project management enables companies to maintain their competitive position relative to peers in the industry. To maintain this position management must ensure that time and costs are controlled throughout the duration of the project. This is a critical element as it helps to determine the overall financial performance of a department or business segment within an organization. Strong financial performance ultimately allows the company to continue to innovate as it plows profits into new and better projects. The process of controlling costs and time on specific projects is know as earned value management and is critical to overall organizational success. Through this process management can better detect early warning signs related to projects and proceed to enact mitigation efforts in order to alleviate concerns.Identify and discuss your projects greatest challenges (at…...
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References
1. Altshuller, G. 1996. And Suddenly the Inventor Appeared: TRIZ, the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving. 2nd edition. Technical Innovation Center, Inc
2. Altshuller, G. and D. W. Clarke. 2005. 40 Principles: TRIZ Keys to Innovation. Extended Edition. Technical Innovation Center, Inc.
IT Project Manager
Information Technology is a very wide area that needs technical expertise and up-to-date knowledge on the latest innovations and developments. Technology is very dynamic and the technology developers are unveiling more user friendly systems on a daily basis making Information Technology Industry very competitive. Through the use of Technology, information sharing has become an easy task as news on the latest technological advancements is shared with the rest of the world in real time.
Consumers of technology products have become wary and more sophisticated in their consumption which dictates the pace at which the advancements and new inventions take place. The sophisticated lifestyles of human beings have created the need and the demand for state of the art technologies which have evolved from the traditional use of the desktop devices and other massive devices to pocket hand held devices which process equally more and faster information on the move…...
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Different firms have different needs which therefore require an informed and competent IT project manager to guide in designing project specific solutions which are tailored to satisfy the needs of those particular projects both in short and in the long-term. Technology developers have been able to develop IT solutions to match user specifications in terms of speed, efficiency, maintenance and room for improvement. As a result the role of an IT project manager cannot be overlooked and is charged with various responsibilities. It is the Project Manager who has the overall authority to successfully initiate the plan, design, monitor and control the project to ensure it ends successfully.
Some of the major skills associated with the role include Planning and Defining Scope, Activity Planning and Sequencing, Resource Planning, Developing schedules, Time Estimating, Cost Estimating, Developing a Budget, Documentation, Risk Analysis, Managing Risks and Issues, Monitoring and Reporting Progress, Team leadership, Strategic influencing, Business partnering, Controlling Quality and Benefits Realization (Duncan Haughey, 2012).
In order to successfully manage a project by an IT project Manager, it is of great importance to fully understand the key areas using the knowledge framework for the information system. Two most important areas include; the Foundation concepts and the Management challenges. The foundation concept helps the manager to understand many areas and concepts of the information system; it involves the technology aspect which defines the components including hardware and software technologies in data processing. Also included in the foundation concept is the application, which equips the manager with the knowledge on issues of electronic commerce and how businesses are interconnected through the use of information systems. It also includes the development concept which enables the manager to embrace and make use of the information technology to design various commands and basic concepts of information systems. The last concept in the foundation concept is management, this aspect enables the manager to fully take charge of the system and address quality issues
skills that project managers need to be successful. Briefly describe the project management skill that you believe is most important. Explain why you believe it is most important and whether and how it can be learned.
One of the most important skills for a project manager to possess is time management skills. Time management skills affect the project in a multitude of different ways. All projects are limited by time by definition and the project schedule is one of the three greatest restraining factors in project management. Therefore in this aspect, time management is central to the success of the overall project. Software development projects are often complex associations of various activities and therefore managing in such an environment takes advanced time management skills.
However, there is another facet to time management that affects the productivity of a project manager and that is their personal time management skills. Although this skill…...
construct a team, excluding project manager, 5 memebers, basic skilled. extensive outsourcing. Overtime allowed a 1 meeting .
Project Management
Delphi Printers and Peripherals is a leading firm activating the field of telecommunications and information technology, within the specific niche of printers and peripheral products. The organization has consolidated its position through the high quality of its products, as well as the creation and enforcement of a strong company image.
Today, Delphi Printers and Peripherals is developing a new printer, that would operate at quality standards superior to those of any of the previous products. Still, this endeavor is overshadowed by the fact that one of Delphi's primary competitors is currently creating a similar product, which would soon be launched within the market.
In this context, it is the desire of Delphi Printers and Peripherals to speed up the production process, in order to ensure that they come to launch their printer before…...
The interview commenced with an exploration of the candidate's professional background and skillset. The candidate highlighted their extensive experience in project management, particularly in the healthcare industry. They elaborated on their expertise in coordinating complex projects, managing budgets, and overseeing teams.
Moving forward, the discussion delved into the candidate's understanding of the healthcare industry. They demonstrated a comprehensive grasp of industry dynamics, regulations, and best practices. They emphasized their familiarity with healthcare information systems and their ability to leverage technology to enhance patient care.
The interview progressed to a deeper examination of the candidate's leadership and interpersonal skills. The....
CONCLUSION
Project resilience is a crucial concept in modern project management that emphasizes the ability of projects to adapt, recover, and thrive in the face of disruptions and challenges. This paper has explored the definitions, theoretical perspectives, and empirical evidence related to project resilience, highlighting the importance of absorptive and adaptive capacities, as well as the integration of sustainability principles.
By synthesizing existing literature and proposing a novel conceptual framework for project resilience, this paper has set the foundation for future research in this area. The theoretical implications emphasize the need for further development and operationalization of project resilience capabilities, while policy....
## Academic Preparation and Response to Challenging Situations
One's academic preparation plays a critical role in their ability to respond effectively to challenging situations. The knowledge, skills, and experiences gained through education equip individuals with the tools and mindset necessary to navigate adversity and find solutions.
Cognitive Skills:
Analytical Thinking: Academic training develops critical thinking skills, enabling individuals to examine problems from multiple perspectives, identify patterns, and draw logical conclusions. This is essential for understanding the root causes of challenges and developing effective strategies. Problem-Solving: Education fosters problem-solving abilities, teaching individuals to break down complex problems into smaller steps, identify potential solutions,....
The S-curve envelope can assist project managers in monitoring project progress effectively by providing a visual representation of the planned expenditure and the actual expenditure over time. This allows for easy comparison between the planned budget and the actual spending, helping project managers identify any deviations from the plan and take corrective actions as needed. Additionally, the S-curve envelope can also help project managers track the progress of work activities and milestones over time. By plotting the planned schedule against the actual progress, project managers can quickly identify any delays or bottlenecks in the project timeline and allocate resources accordingly....
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