Project Management
Project management is the application of processes, methods, knowledge, skills and experience to achieve a defined objective or objectives.
A project is a unique, time bound endeavour, undertaken to achieve planned objectives, which could be defined in terms of outputs, outcomes or benefits. A project is usually deemed to be a success if it achieves the objectives according to their acceptance criteria, within an agreed timescale and budget.
A key factor that distinguishes project management from just 'management' is that it has this final deliverable and a finite timespan, unlike management which is an ongoing process. Because of this a project manager needs a wide range of skills; often technical skills, and certainly people management skills and good business awareness.
The core activities of project management are:
Defining the reason why a project is necessary;
• Capturing project requirements, specifying quality of the deliverables, estimating resources and timescales;
• Preparing a business case to justify the investment;
• Securing senior level agreement and funding;
• Developing and implementing a management plan for the project;
• Leading and motivating the project delivery team;
• Managing the risks, issues and changes on the project;
• Monitoring progress against plan;
• Maintaining communications with stakeholders and the project organisation;
• Closing the project in a controlled fashion when appropriate.
• Learning lessons from the delivery of the project.
These activities are often defined in process which may be based on a methodology such as AGILE or PRINCE2. This site provides guidance on a general project management lifecycle irrespective of methodology. It also provides some tools and templates that can be used in applying the lifecycle. The site also provides guidance on developing yourself as a project manager. Please click on the links below for further information.
If you have any questions or feedback regarding this site, please email: UoM-sco@manchester.ac.uk
Project Framework
Read about the Project Framework
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Project Manager Development
View the skills needed and resources available to develop as a project manager.
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Project Governance and Roles
Read more about roles and governance of project management.
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Project management courses
We offer two self‑directed project management courses to support colleagues development:
- Project Management: Fundamentals (4 hrs)
This course introduces the essential skills and concepts needed to manage projects effectively. You’ll learn how to plan, execute, and deliver projects on time and within budget, no matter the industry. Perfect for beginners or those looking to sharpen their skills.
Learn what it takes to succeed as a project management professional. Discover how to manage projects effectively, from simple to complex, with expert guidance on scheduling, budgeting, communication, and more. Explore project management tools included in the Microsoft 365 suite.
This learning path is eligible for a Professional Certificate provided by Microsoft.