Firend Alan Rasch

Methodologies in Project Management Firend Alan Rasch

There are numerous definitions of methodology in project management. However, there is a shared fundamental principle across all definitions. That is, methodology in project management helps project managers direct the project, and keep it in track. Methodology help organizations to achieve outcomes that aligned with strategic objectives. This is especially true when considering that projects are expensive, changing and time consuming in nature. All projects have three main components that a Project Manager (PM) constantly struggle with; cost, time, and quality. Various approaches to project methodology are the means of organizing and directing projects. These components are limitations that shape projects in the form of outcomes, deadlines and resources. As such, choosing the right methodology help achieve desired objectives and set outcomes in a most efficient and effective manner. There are six common types of project management methodologies. Each part will be discussed with explanation of its sub-parts. This body of work is written while working in California's Silicon Valley as project manager, and teaching project management to MBA students. The intent of this work is to clarify the various methodologies applied in project management and simply these concepts to those learning project management, and to those studying it. A study on critical success factors has been included at the end of this book to illustrate the importance of culture and the role cultural values play in defining project successes and failures for the benefit of the reader.