Project management is the application of knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques to plan, execute, and oversee a project from start to finish. Its purpose is to achieve specific objectives within defined constraints such as scope, time, cost, and quality.

The five key phases of project management are:

1. Initiation – Defining the project’s purpose and feasibility.
2. Planning – Setting objectives, timelines, and resource allocation.
3. Execution – Implementing the plan and completing deliverables.
4. Monitoring and Controlling – Tracking progress and making adjustments.
5. Closure – Finalizing the project and reviewing its success.

A project manager is responsible for leading the project team, defining goals, managing resources, monitoring progress, communicating with stakeholders, and ensuring the project is delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.

Project scope defines the boundaries of the project, including its goals, deliverables, tasks, and deadlines. It is essential to prevent scope creep (uncontrolled changes or growth in a project’s scope) and to ensure all stakeholders have a clear understanding of what the project entails.

A successful project manager needs skills such as:

Leadership and team management
Effective communication
Risk management
Time and resource management
Problem-solving and critical thinking
Proficiency with project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Jira, or Trello).

Popular methodologies include:

Waterfall – Sequential and linear approach.
Agile – Flexible and iterative process.
Scrum – Agile framework for team collaboration.
Kanban – Visual task management.
Lean – Focuses on efficiency and reducing waste.
PRINCE2 – Structured, process-based methodology.

A project risk is an uncertain event or condition that can impact project objectives. Risks are managed through:

Identification
Assessment (likelihood and impact)
Mitigation planning
Monitoring throughout the project lifecycle

Project success is typically measured by:

Delivering on time and within budget
Meeting project objectives and stakeholder expectations
Achieving quality standards
Realizing intended benefits or outcomes

Common tools include:

Planning Tools: Microsoft Project, Smartsheet
Collaboration Tools: Asana, Trello, Monday.com
Communication Tools: Slack, Microsoft Teams
Risk Management: Risk Matrix, RACI charts
Agile Tools: Jira, ClickUp

Typical challenges include:

Poorly defined goals or scope
Inadequate resources or budgeting
Communication breakdowns
Risk management failures
Unrealistic deadlines