Independent consultant Berkum begins this readable how-to guide to project management with a brief history of the subject, and an explanation of why the subject is important. The book is then divided into three sections, with the headings of plans, skills, and management. The section on planning discusses schedules, figuring out what to do, ideas, and what to do with ideas. The next section addresses skills such as writing specifications, making good decisions, communication, how not to annoy people, and what to do when things go wrong. The final section on management looks at issues of trust, how to make things happen, strategies, and power and politics. Includes an annotated bibliography.
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The Art of Project Management covers it all--from practical methods for making sure work gets done right and on time, to the mindset that can make you a great leader motivating your team to do their best. Reading this was like reading the blueprint for how the best projects are managed at Microsoft... I wish we always put these lessons into action --Joe Belfiore, General Manager, E-home Division, Microsoft Corporation Berkun has written a fast paced, jargon-free and witty guide to what he wisely refers to as the 'art' of project management. It's a great introduction to the discipline. Seasoned and new managers will benefit from Berkun's perspectives. --Joe Mirza, Director, CNET Networks (Cnet.com) Most books with the words 'project management' in the title are dry tomes. If that's what you are expecting to hear from Berkun's book, you will be pleasantly surprised. Sure, it's about project management. But it's also about creativity, situational problem-solving, and leadership. If you're a team member, project manager, or even a non-technical stakeholder, Scott offers dozens of practical tools and techniques you can use, and questions you can ask, to ensure your projects succeed. --Bill Bliss, Senior VP of product and customer experience, expedia.com In The Art of Project Management, you'll learn from a veteran manager of software and web development how to plan, manage, and lead projects. This personal account of hard lessons learned over a decade of work in the industry distills complex concepts and challenges into practical nuggets of useful advice. Inspiring, funny, honest, and compelling, this is the book you and your team need to have within arms reach. It will serve youwell with your current work, and on future projects to come. Topics include: How to make things happen Making good decisions Specifications and requirements Ideas and what to do with them How not to annoy people Leadership and trust The truth about making dates What to do when things go wrong