Schaap, Maddy - Project Management

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[edit] Job title (Maddy Schaap)

Project Manager

[edit] General overview

Project managers are self-motivated, task-oriented individuals that use their knowledge and expertise to complete projects successfully, on time, and within budget. They are responsible for planning, designing, managing, and closing projects[1]. Project managers are found in many different industries, such as construction, architecture, engineering, public, and health services. They typically work in group environments, are comfortable with change, and are good team leaders.

[edit] Job duties and responsibilities

There are many duties and responsibilities that a project manager is expected to complete. One responsibility involves planning and organizing project assignments. In this case, project managers must design a work plan, budget the time and costs that will go into the project, as well as clarify the project scope and requirements that need to be met. Project managers must work well with other team members, demonstrate leadership, and motivate others. They are responsible for making decisions that benefit the project, and allowing all team members to express their ideas and concerns[1]. Clear and open communication is necessary in order to avoid any risks and uncertainty. Project managers are responsible for recognizing risks, removing obstacles, and managing unexpected issues or difficulties effectively. They are responsible for creating schedules, and documenting project progression[1]. When reviewing the project, project managers must make sure the project is completed on time, within the budget, and that it meets or exceeds expectations. Project success depends on the project manager and their abilities to monitor, manage, and complete project tasks effectively and on time.

[edit] Typical workday

Project managers typically work Monday to Friday and between the hours of 9:00am-5:00pm. Depending on the circumstances, they may work overtime or on weekends to meet project demands or deadlines. Project managers tend to work in office environments but may be required to work at a client’s office [2]. It is not uncommon that project managers hold and attend meetings with other team members to assess project development. Meetings may include discussing short term and long term goals, any changes that may have occurred, and/or barriers to overcome. Project managers typically follow a schedule and are aware of what needs to be completed for the upcoming month in order to keep tasks moving forward. Project managers are constantly communicating with other people, and making sure that tasks will be completed on time [3].

[edit] Educational requirements and other qualifications

In order to become a qualified project manager, one can complete the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. The PMP is globally the most recognized certification and demonstrates the individual’s education and experience in managing projects. In order to apply for the PMP, one must either have a high school diploma with at least five years (approximately 7,500 hours) of experience in leading projects, OR a four year bachelor’s degree with about three years (approximately 4,500 hours) of experience in leading projects. If these requirements are met, one can apply for the PMP and take the exam. For more information on preparing for the PMP exam visit: http://www.pmi.org/Certification/Project-Management-Professional-PMP.aspx For university graduates, Sheridan College and Humber College offer a one year Project Management program that provides students with the necessary skills of a project manager, and prepares students for the PMP exam. These programs require the completion of a Bachelor’s degree, and a degree in Psychology or Business can be seen as useful when considering Project Management. For more information on the courses provided visit:

Sheridan College: https://www.sheridancollege.ca/academics/programs-and-courses/project-management.aspx (Co-op Available)

Humber College: https://www.humber.ca/program/project-management

[edit] Related skills, interests, and abilities

  • Problem solving skills: Issues can arise in any project and project managers must be able to recognize and solve problems fast and efficiently. They must also remain calm under pressure and stressful events.
  • Leadership skills: Project management typically requires working with other individuals. They must assign roles to all members in the groups, and maintain the team’s confidence in their abilities to reach their goals.
  • Good communication skills: Communication is required between the project manager and team of employees. All individuals must clearly understand the goal and their roles in order to reach the goal. Maintaining an open relationship with other employees enables trustworthiness, and confidence that can increase productiveness in the group.

[edit] Relevance of psychology undergraduate degree

Given the fact that Project Managers are constantly working with people in team oriented environments, psychology could be seen as a relevant program. Social psychology is useful for understanding how human’s work together, and how projects are being managed under group settings. Each person that plays a role in managing a project is also unique, therefore personality psychology could be useful for understanding individual characteristics and assigning roles to persons in a group. Furthermore, Positive psychology could be helpful because it can improve work environments simply by being positive. For example, optimism may assist Project Managers because they may undergo a lot of change that can be stressful at times and holding a positive outlook may help look past any obstacles. Knowledge on stress and coping methods is also useful in project management and can be taught in Health Psychology. Project management can be stressful at times of getting projects done on time, or on budget. It is important that these individuals cope with stress in positive ways in order to maintain good health.

[edit] Salary potential

According to PayScale, 2015, the average salary for a certified project manager with less than one year of experience is $59,997, whereas one with 20 years of experience or more makes $112, 495 on average [4]. The salary for a Project Manager can also vary depending on the industry one is working in, the company size, and the city. For instance, a big city like Toronto may require many project managers, and therefore may offer a higher salary because of its high demand.

[edit] Job outlook

Project Management is gradually becoming more recognized and in demand all over the world. According to PMI, 2015, it is projected that an average of 1.2 million positions will need to be filled globally for the next decade.

[edit] To know more

http://www.pmi.org/

http://www.pmac-agpc.ca/certification

[edit] Notes and References

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 Haughey, D. (2015). The Role of the Project Manager. ProjectSmart. Retrieved February 11, 2015, from http://www.projectsmart.co.uk/the-role-of-the-project-manager.php
  2. Project Management Professional (PMP). (2015). Project Management Institute. Retrieved February 11, 2015, from http://www.pmi.org/Certification/Project-ManagementProfessional-PMP.aspx
  3. Beard, M. (2011). A Day in the Life of a Project Manager. Project Management Times. Retrieved, February 12, 2015, from http://www.projecttimes.com/articles/a-day-in-the-life-of-a-program-manager.html
  4. Hourly Rate for Certification: Project Management Professional (PMP). (2015). PayScale. Retrieved February 12, 2015, from http://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Certification=Project_Management_Professional(PMP/Hourly_Rate#by_Job
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