Project Management Fundamentals Study Guide

What are the primary ways a project manager can add value by focusing on the customer?

A project manager adds value by building relationships with customers and understanding the 'why' behind the project, ensuring it meets customer standards and desired outcomes.

Distinguish between internal and external customers as defined in project management.

Internal customers are stakeholders within the project manager's organization, while external customers are individuals or organizations outside of it, such as clients and suppliers.

Why is it essential for a project manager to ensure their team has the right skill sets?

It's essential because a team cannot successfully complete a project without the necessary expertise; for instance, a project needing medical knowledge will fail without skilled medical professionals.

Explain the concept of 'breaking down barriers' and how a project manager accomplishes this.

'Breaking down barriers' means challenging the status quo and empowering the team to innovate. A project manager can do this by supporting new approaches and removing obstacles.

List the four key competencies of an effective project manager.

The four key competencies are enabling decision-making, communicating and escalating, strong organizational skills, and flexibility.

How does enabling collaborative decision-making benefit a project and its team?

It empowers team members, fosters accountability, and encourages creative solutions, allowing the project manager to focus on broader management tasks.

Describe 'flexible planning' and identify one strategy a project manager can use to implement it.

Flexible planning is the ability to adapt to changes; one strategy is to account for external constraints like holidays by leaving extra time in the schedule.

What is a cross-functional team, and why are its members sometimes referred to as 'T-shaped professionals'?

A cross-functional team includes members with varied expertise working towards a common goal; they are called 'T-shaped professionals' for their ability to collaborate across functions while specialized in one.

What are the four essential actions for effectively managing a cross-functional team?

The four actions are clarifying goals, assembling team members with the right skills, measuring progress, and recognizing team efforts.

Why is it important to measure and communicate a project's progress to the team?

It keeps the team motivated by showcasing achievements, ensuring everyone is informed about the project's status, and recognizes their contributions.