This book is written for all managers, in any function, who are tasked with delivering projects at work. It is of particular interest to those managers who have to deal with small- to medium-sized projects in addition to their usual responsibilities. Straightforward and user friendly, this book takes the reader through a series of steps which results in the effective delivery of a project. Managing Projects at Work breaks down into two stages. By the end of stage one the reader will know how to build a ’Defensible Plan’ for successful project implementation. This process, which follows a step-by-step sequence, draws out in a unique way all the resources and support needed for an effective project delivery. The outcome is a confident project manager who can justify and secure what is needed for the stress-free implementation of the project. Stage two deals with implementing the ’Defensible Plan’ under proper control, through motivated and well-led people. Gordon Webster’s approach suits projects as diverse as introducing new systems or procedures, launching a new product, opening a new branch, factory or department; even organizing a conference or moving offices. Its practical methodology has been developed as a result of working over many years with managers whose projects had gone off track, usually for the same reasons. From these observations the unique and entirely effective ’Defensible Plan’ and its implementation were born. By adopting this approach readers can build in success from the beginning and see consistent project delivery, along with control of their working life.
Gordon Webster has been involved in project management as the Operations Director at Sound Diffusion Group plc, and as a lecturer and consultant with PA Sundridge Park Management Centre. He is now a partner with the Centre for Project Leadership, consulting and running training programmes on an international basis.
Contents: Introduction. Part I Building the Defensible Plan: The Defensible Plan; Defining your project; Scheduling the work; Estimating resources needed; Planning for project leadership; Managing risk; Delighting customers; Building a budget; Selling the Defensible Plan. Part II Implementing the Defensible Plan: Project implementation, an overview; Building and using project controls; Leading and motivating project team members; Building and leading a project team; Solving implementation problems; Glossary; Index.
