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Project Managers

Place for project managers to discuss how they manage their projects and their lives.

Network Leader: Christopher McSpiritt

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LY Gian Hi. I need some mentoring on effective project management. During project coordination, how do we ensure that the development of the project actually bring benefits and the continuous improvement process is actually in place?

55 weeks ago from Project Managers

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Dr. Paul D. Giammalvo: @Tony,
Interesting comments on your site. I think the most telling was the last comment- "Warning Sign! The sponsors fail to attend scheduled ...More@Tony,
Interesting comments on your site. I think the most telling was the last comment- "Warning Sign! The sponsors fail to attend scheduled project review meetings."

FWIW, I am supervising two MBA- Project Management students who are doing their master's thesis on creating behavioral profiles of SUCCESSFUL sponsors. You may find this research interesting- Behavioral Profiles of SUCCESSFUL project managers. http://www.maxwideman.com/guests/behavior_profiles/intro.htm

BR,
Dr. PDG, Jakarta, Indonesia
http://www.build-project-management-competency.com
54 weeks ago

LY Gian: Dr Paul, i do agree with you it is a big WARNING sign if the sponsor fail to attend the project review meeting. This is because after the project ...MoreDr Paul, i do agree with you it is a big WARNING sign if the sponsor fail to attend the project review meeting. This is because after the project rolled out, the sponsor must take ownership on the project deliverable.

2 weeks ago

Dr. Woody Resolving to be a Better Boss in 2012: Three Tips for Managers & Executives in the New Year! http://ow.ly/8ozyi

4 weeks ago from The Career Hot Seat!, Non-Profit Management, Project Managers, Human Resources and Productivity & Time-Management 3 more

Dana We are seeking a client-facing Project Manager with consulting/professional services experience; will ideally be located in Boston, Chicago, or San Francisco area. If you are interested, apply online: https://jobs-flexera.icims.com/jobs/8252/job Flexera Software is trusted by more than 80,000 customers that depend on our comprehensive solutions- from installation and licensing, entitlement and compliance management to application readiness and enterprise license optimization.

4 weeks ago from Project Managers

Dana recommended this

Melissa Looking for Program Manager for a hybrid position 50% tech skills (javascript, knowledge of SQL etc) and 50% interpersonal skills. 1 - 2 years local consulting would be good or a strong MBA recent grad for a full time job in Mount Laurel, NJ. Please send me your resume ASAP to melissa@ciginc.com

9 weeks ago from Project Managers

Dr. Woody Is Incivility at Work on the Rise??? Check out my column & take our quick poll on incivility at your workplace! I'll share the results next Monday! http://www.foxbusiness.com/personal-finance/2011/08/15/how-is-workplace-...

25 weeks ago from Human Resources, Recruiters Unite!, Non-Profit Management, Project Managers and Inspiring Leadership 3 more

Dr. Woody: Share your thoughts on Incivility at Work! Take the quick FoxBusiness Poll. No registration or sigh-in needed!
25 weeks ago

Angela Avery-Ahlijian I am seriously considering taking the PMP in order to increase employability. Has anyone here ever taken it before, and if so, what tips, advice, feedback would you give a person with little to no experience in the field of project management?

49 weeks ago from Project Managers

Robin Mills recommended this

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Dr. Paul D. Giammalvo: Angela,
As a follow up, IF you are serious about project management as a career path objective, you would probably be better served by earning any ...MoreAngela,
As a follow up, IF you are serious about project management as a career path objective, you would probably be better served by earning any of the COMPETENCY based credentials, such as those offered by IPMA http://www.ipma.ch/certification/Pages/default.aspx or AIPM www.aipm.com.au. If you are an American, I would recommend you consider the American Society for the Advancement of Project Management, asapm http://www.asapm.org/Cert/default.asp

BR,
Dr. PDG, Jakarta, Indonesia
http://www.build-project-management-competency.com

49 weeks ago

Robin Mills: @Angela - as someone who is in a similar situation and who has run projects or been involved in projects as a (significant) individual ...More@Angela - as someone who is in a similar situation and who has run projects or been involved in projects as a (significant) individual contributor, I would say that in the meantime, really try to get yourself involved in as many "project type" experiences as possible. In the three years I have been at my employer, I have taken problems that existed in my department, pitched a project plan to Sr. Management, and either have run the project or merged my project idea into another one that was similar and worked alongside others to make the project work. I also took project management-type projects as well as some on-line classes that would prep me for the PMP test (whether I decided to move in that direction or not) so I could get into the mind set of how to run a better project. It's been invaluable for me not only to have experience in order to take the PMP or the CAPM exam (the audit process for these exams are brutal....I haven't looked into the exams the Dr. has suggested), but to take with me to other employers when I post for a position. Also, think about what you have done in your personal life that may be project type experience....you probably have more experience than you think. PM me if you have any questions. :)
49 weeks ago

La Donna Lokey I'm working on a research project and need to identify companies that are similar to or competitors of Razorfish, in particular any companies that might have a presence in Texas, NY, or Florida. This would be companies that hire User Experience Devs/Designers, Web Devs, Project Mgrs, graphic artists, copy writers, HTML coders, etc. Can you name some of these companies, and also indicate which ones are the best or have the best reputation?

50 weeks ago from PR & New Media, Professional Writers and Editors, Project Managers and Copywriters 2 more

Rebecca Thorman recommended this

Dr. Woody Trouble with the boss??? Or, trouble being the boss??? Some tips on Resolving to Be a Better Boss in 2011! http://ow.ly/3BWdz

56 weeks ago from The Career Hot Seat!, Human Resources, Recruiters Unite!, Non-Profit Management and Project Managers 3 more

John C Does anyone know what the current market is for contract specialists, administrators and managers (government and commercial contracting)? I'm a current paralegal looking to expand my horizons a bit (but don't want to go to law school for various reasons) and have experience with contracting and contract management. Can anyone think of other positions, industries and careers that a paralegal might be a good fit for?

74 weeks ago from Project Managers

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Sara Gallagher: Absolutely! For department heads, we look for 5 to 15 years experience, but for an instructor 3 years is fine. We've already hired someone to ...MoreAbsolutely! For department heads, we look for 5 to 15 years experience, but for an instructor 3 years is fine. We've already hired someone to manage our program, but we might be adding an instructor in the next year. I'll keep your name in mind should an opportunity arise. In the meantime, start looking in your area.
74 weeks ago

Ken: The US Government hires a wide range of professionals. My agency processes benefit claims for veterans, and a solid understanding of law and the ...MoreThe US Government hires a wide range of professionals. My agency processes benefit claims for veterans, and a solid understanding of law and the ability to follow process and procedure that you learned as a paralegal would be a huge asset. The VA and most other agencies post jobs on USAJOBS.GOV.
67 weeks ago

Ken I've been directed to bring corporate data governance to my federal agency. I've done research on data governance and master data management but am not sure where to start. Must get something on paper soon--any suggestions?

67 weeks ago from Project Managers

Ryan Healy recommended this

Dr. Paul D. Giammalvo: Hi Ken,
My suggestion would be to start with the "soft" side of things- the ethics. I happen to like the work of the Society for Corporate ...MoreHi Ken,
My suggestion would be to start with the "soft" side of things- the ethics. I happen to like the work of the Society for Corporate Compliance and Ethics people. http://corporatecompliance.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Resources/Professi...

Another important aspect (especially in this day of taxpayer outrage and Tea Party initiatives) would be to incorporate the fiduciary responsibility of Federal employees to their taxpayer brethren in other sectors.

Hope this helps some?

BR,
Dr. PDG, Jakarta, Indonesia
http://www.build-project-management-competency.com
67 weeks ago

Bryon Ownby I am happy to say that I'm finally starting the direction tonight for the PMP as I begin the class for the 35 hour requriement. This has been in the making for two years now, happy that it's finally happening!

74 weeks ago from Project Managers

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Lauren Burns: Congrats! Have you developed a plan for studying for the PMP Exam yet? I took the class requirements last year, and am now getting ready to ...MoreCongrats! Have you developed a plan for studying for the PMP Exam yet? I took the class requirements last year, and am now getting ready to buckle down for the studying and exam itself.
73 weeks ago

Dr. Paul D. Giammalvo: @Lauren, are you asking me or Byron? We provide a 90 day long blended learning course, BUT.... It is NOT designed specifically to pass the PMP ...More@Lauren, are you asking me or Byron? We provide a 90 day long blended learning course, BUT.... It is NOT designed specifically to pass the PMP exam, but to teach the fundamentals of applied project management, which, oh by the way, will more than adequately prepare you to sit for the PMP exam and pass it.

We have a 17 year long, first attempt pass rate of 86% for English as Second Language (ESL) and 99.9% for native/near native speakers of English.....

Before you go crazy over getting your PMP, you may want to read over the research I have been doing comparing the various project and program management credentials...... http://www.pmforum.org/library/papers/2010/PDFs/feb/FP-Giammalvo-PMCerts...

More importantly, we are seeing a definite move by the early adopters to move away from knowledge based credentials towards competency based credentialing......

Assuming you are American, check out asapm...... http://www.asapm.org/Cert/WhatCert.asp

Hope this helps you in making the best career path decision....

BR,
Dr. PDG, Jakarta, Indonesia
http://www.build-project-management-competency.com
73 weeks ago

Rebecca Thorman Are you an asker or a guesser? Askers will ask for anything—a favor, a pay rise—fully realizing the answer may be no. Guessers avoid asking unless they're sure the answer will be yes & put out feelers instead. Neither's "wrong", but when an Asker meets a Guesser, unpleasantness results. Your boss, asking for a project to be finished early, may be overdemanding—or just an Asker, who's assuming you might decline. If you're a Guesser, you'll hear it as an expectation. Which are you?

91 weeks ago from Future Leaders, Inspiring Leadership, Networking Tips and Project Managers 2 more

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Bryon Ownby: Just saw this post online, interesting perspective as I never thought about it this way!
74 weeks ago

Danielle Albright: I'd totally lean toward more of a guesser. I find it easier just to do the task rather than have to make sure someone else does it right. ...MoreI'd totally lean toward more of a guesser. I find it easier just to do the task rather than have to make sure someone else does it right. Actually, I need to get better about that!
74 weeks ago

74 weeks ago from Project Managers

Dr. Paul D. Giammalvo: Hi Ben,
Contract Managers is a job title and there most certainly is or should be a demand for that skill set.

At least for construction, I would ...MoreHi Ben,
Contract Managers is a job title and there most certainly is or should be a demand for that skill set.

At least for construction, I would look to the Construction Specifications Institute, (CSI) and obtain their Certified Contract Manager credential and you should be good to go in any one of a number of private sector or governmental positions,

Good luck!!

Dr, PDG, Jakarta, Indonesia
http://www,build-project-management-competency.com
74 weeks ago

Ellen Nordahl What resources have you found to be valuable in time management? At Epic, all employees receive a copy of "Getting Things Done" by David Allen, and everyone has a professional development fund to put toward materials that are beneficial to their career development. I'm putting some of mine toward "Rework" by Jason Fried, but I would love to hear any recommendations for productivity-focused books.

85 weeks ago from Epic, Project Managers and Productivity & Time-Management 1 more

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Ellen Nordahl: Great advice! I've noticed a lot of articles about the pitfalls of multitasking lately - the Harvard Business Review blog has offered several ...MoreGreat advice! I've noticed a lot of articles about the pitfalls of multitasking lately - the Harvard Business Review blog has offered several thought-provoking posts on the subject.

How (and why) to Stop Multitasking: http://blogs.hbr.org/bregman/2010/05/how-and-why-to-stop-multitaski.html

In Defense of Multitasking: http://blogs.hbr.org/silverman/2010/06/in-defense-of-multitasking.html

I'll definitely look in to the Lifehacker book (I read the site daily), and I'm intrigued to learn that there's a follow-up to Allen's first book. Your Brain at Work also sounds like an interesting read. Keep up the awesome suggestions! (And Eric - I agree - it is great to feel like your company is truly devoted to providing the resources you need to stay sharp and on top of your game).
85 weeks ago

John Heartlein: Autofocus has worked for me.
MoreAutofocus has worked for me.
http://blog.alecsatin.com/autofocus4/
85 weeks ago

Sara Gallagher I just got back from an open source software conference, and it got me thinking about the philosophy behind the open source movement and how the principles of transparency, information sharing, and collaboration apply to the workplace. How do you think employee rivalries will change as teamwork and info sharing figure more prominently at work? Wrote my thoughts in a post called "Are You an Open Source Employee?" http://gearsandshifts.com/2010/06/are-you-an-open-source-employee/

87 weeks ago from Career Rocketeer and Project Managers

Rebecca Thorman recommended this

Rebecca Thorman: I definitely think collaborative work is great in theory - I've written a lot about it, in fact. But I don't think I learned it's true value and ...MoreI definitely think collaborative work is great in theory - I've written a lot about it, in fact. But I don't think I learned it's true value and implementation before working at my current position at a start-up. It doesn't matter who is doing the work or who has the idea as long as you move forward and we're hitting our goals. It's so much fun working with a group that is as ambitious and driven and excited as I am. The problems with collaborative work and teamwork come up when you're matched with a group that doesn't share your desire to execute. It will be up to companies and hiring managers to build the right culture with the right people then.
87 weeks ago

Ben Donahower: Without cultural screening during the hiring process and indoctrination throughout an employee's career there will always be competition.

As we ...MoreWithout cultural screening during the hiring process and indoctrination throughout an employee's career there will always be competition.

As we become more focused on teams and teamwork, the rivalries may transition from individual competition to rivalries between teams.
87 weeks ago

Leandro Arias I'm currently searching for an IT Manager for an environmental liabilities company outside of Philadelphia, PA. A successful candidate will direct the technical management of environmental data management projects. Needs 10+ yrs of experience. BS in an environment discipline, Computer Science, or GIS. EQuIS software knowledge required, Oracle, MS SQL Server, ESRI products, Hyperion, MS Access. If interested, or know someone that would be, please email me @ leandro.arias@accountingprincipals.com

88 weeks ago from Green and Environmental industries, Philadelphia Lovers, Tech Gurus, Project Managers and We're Hiring 3 more

Ryan Healy recommended this

Sara Gallagher Inspired by the Lost Finale and Michael Emerson's insightful commentary on his character Benjamin Linus: 5 Real Workplace Villains http://gearsandshifts.com/blog/2010/05/5-real-workplace-villains-2/

89 weeks ago from Sales Professionals, Career Rocketeer and Project Managers 1 more

Robin Mills: Loved this! I am dealing with three of these villains as we speak. Do you have any suggestions (with or without experience) to deal with these ...MoreLoved this! I am dealing with three of these villains as we speak. Do you have any suggestions (with or without experience) to deal with these energy suckers? :)
89 weeks ago

Sara Gallagher: Hey Robin,

I've been thinking all day about your question. I tend to think that once you become aware of how the Fake Friend, Sometimes Credit ...MoreHey Robin,

I've been thinking all day about your question. I tend to think that once you become aware of how the Fake Friend, Sometimes Credit Hog, Saboteur Disguised As your Mentor, and Occasional Gossip operate, it's a little easier to avoid being burned by them.

With the Fake Friend, Saboteur Disguised as Your Mentor and Occasional Gossip, placing a little (or a lot) of emotional distance and withdrawing your trust works well to get you out of the line of fire.

The Sometimes Credit Hog is more difficult, because truly getting out from underneath their shadow may require exposing their game. The key is that you can't be the one to expose them, because you risk being perceived as a Credit Hog yourself. Better to do what Linus does: take a beating for awhile until you figure out how they operate and what ideas seem to be important to them. Then find a way to manipulate circumstances so that objective bystanders see what's going on.

Once they get a reputation among disinterested parties for being a Credit Hog, they're toast...and you didn't really have to lift a finger (or complain to HR).
89 weeks ago

Mark Dykeman Hello everyone. Just thought that you might find this post, full of problem solving resources, to be useful: http://thoughtwrestling.com/blog/problem-solving-resources/

95 weeks ago from Project Managers

Saba Sheikh Headstrong(www.headstrong.com) is looking for Project Managers with healthcare experience for our healthcare client in Rockville,MD

95 weeks ago from Health Care, Project Managers and Health Care and Medical Professionals, Practitioners and Recruiters 1 more

Christopher McSpiritt Introducing Scrum to your team - http://www.scrumbasics.com/introducing-scrum-team/

98 weeks ago from Project Managers

Amanda Christianson New to the group, and an architectural project manager. Anyone else in the building industry here?

102 weeks ago from Project Managers

Jacob Revold How do you manage your cross-cultural teams: http://www.revold.no/2010/02/cross-cultural-awareness/

103 weeks ago from Project Managers

Christopher McSpiritt How to keep track of action items: http://www.tripleconstraints.com/track-action-items/

104 weeks ago from Project Managers

Elizabeth Raley Any suggestions on how to track resource allocation? My challenge is that developers and PMs are constantly get moved from one project to the next (not efficient, I know). But I want to track it so we can ultimately fix it!

104 weeks ago from Project Managers

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Jamie Nacht Farrell: MS Project has a function for that if you keep track at the beginning of each project
94 weeks ago

Joseph Arruda: That depends on what infrastructure you have already, and the scale you are working at. I had to work on setting up custom fields in the system ...MoreThat depends on what infrastructure you have already, and the scale you are working at. I had to work on setting up custom fields in the system we use internally (Redmine) after rollout to accommodate the kinds of resource control you are looking for, but it can be done in a multitude of ways depending on -largely- the number of moving parts you are dealing with, and the frequency of the changes.
94 weeks ago

Jacob Revold How to raise performance: http://www.revold.no/2010/02/how-to-raise-performance-in-your-teams/

104 weeks ago from Project Managers