This handbook is a practical reference for project managers, program managers, and team members. It explains core concepts, methodologies, and tools used to run projects from start to finish, including Waterfall, Agile, and Scrum. The book also covers budgeting, scheduling, risk management, and performance evaluation, ending with an alphabetical glossary of key terms.
This document is a project management handbook designed for professionals and students seeking a structured overview of the discipline. It introduces the fundamental principles of managing projects, from defining goals and deliverables to executing and closing work. The content is organized into five main chapters plus a comprehensive glossary, making it a complete reference for both beginners and experienced practitioners.
The first chapter lays the groundwork by explaining what project management is and the typical project life cycle. It covers the four core phases: initiation, planning, executing, and closing. It also introduces key roles like the project manager and program manager, and describes common organizational structures, including functional and matrix setups, as well as the influence of corporate governance and culture.
The second chapter focuses on project initiation and scope definition. It details how to create a project charter, conduct a cost-benefit analysis, and define success criteria. The text explains the triple constraint of scope, time, and cost, and introduces tools like the Power-Interest Grid and RACI chart for managing stakeholders and clarifying responsibilities.
The third chapter covers planning, budgeting, and scheduling in depth. It explains how to break down work using a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) and how to sequence tasks with dependencies. The critical path method, float, and buffer management are described, along with cost estimation techniques like bottom-up estimating and the use of contingency and management reserves.
The fourth chapter shifts to Agile frameworks, with a detailed look at Scrum. It describes the three pillars of Scrum, core roles like the Product Owner and Development Team, and key ceremonies such as Sprint Planning and Sprint Review. The chapter also covers user stories, the I.N.V.E.S.T. criteria, and visual management tools like Kanban boards and burndown charts.
The final chapter addresses quality governance and project closeout. It explains quality planning and control, and introduces earned value management with formulas for cost and schedule variance. The document concludes with a comprehensive glossary of project management terms, from 'Abandoned project' to 'Agile Manifesto', providing quick definitions for common terminology.