A Project is generally defined as a programme of work to bring about a beneficial change and which has:

• A start and an end

• A Multi-disciplinary team specifically coordinated for the project

• Constraints on time, cost and quality

• A scope of work that is unique and involves uncertainty (a different working aim from usual day-to-day business)

2. How is a Project different to any other work?

A project has a specific aim, it is not continuous. Continuous processes are operated on a daily or frequent/regular basis, generally organised and dealt with by the same individual or department every time the need arises. Projects occur completely separate of regular day-to-day business and once finished are not repeated.

3. Should all Projects be the same?

No. All projects require a level of creativity to develop ideas and move towards solutions, but too much creativity in the wrong hands becomes chaotic, and will ultimately result in project failure. Project Managers have a vital role in effectively utilising creativity whilst adhering to a structured framework and planned schedule to successfully drive the project in the right direction.

4. What does a Project Manager do?

Typically a project manager will be nominated to lead a project and will be expected to be fully accountable for meeting its objectives. The project manager will be the leader of the project team and will be responsible for:

• Gaining approval for the project

• Selecting and leading the project team

• Ensuring the project is feasible

• Ensuring the project is planned in sufficient detail

• Allocating and Monitoring resources

• Team motivation

• Helping deal with project obstacles

• Achieving the project goals, through the team’s efforts

• Reviewing and closing down the project

5. Who deals with Projects?

Anyone can deal with projects in a certain capacity, depending on their role in a certain project environment. When projects are created people are drafted in from different areas of a firm to execute a project, due to their expertise or skills, or as a generic requirement for any project, such as a project manager and administrative staff who are always required, whereas in some cases a technical consultant may not be.

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