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Project Management Software
Effective Project Management: Solving Problems as They Arise
The
effective project manager knows how to be a problem solver. Almost no
project goes perfectly, without any hang-ups or problems. The project
manager needs to be prepared for things to go awry at some point during
the process. If she or he is properly prepared, the manager can more
effectively overcome setbacks and keep the project on track. Project
management software can be a helpful tool in assessing risk and helping
train project managers to effectively handle problems that arise over
the course of a project. A successful project is not one that had no
bumps; it is one where the bumps were smoothed over and worked out.
One
of the most effective ways to solve problems as they arise to practice
continuous risk assessment and management. It is important to take into
account possible problems during the initiating and planning phases of
the project, but good project management requires that risk assessment
be ongoing. Rather than simply mitigate the problems foreseeable at the
beginning and then assume nothing else will come up, the project
manager should be aware of the current state of things. He or she
should analyze where the project is at, and honestly evaluate where it
appears to be headed. This way, when a new risk appears, it is caught
early. Managing risk before it becomes a huge problem is one if the
most effective project management techniques available.
Another
important thing to remember is to attack all problems head on. Do not
try to run from them or sweep them under the rug. Small, unaddressed
issues can turn into big unavoidable problems if left alone. By taking
care of problems as soon as you are aware of them is a good way to take
care of them before they become glaring, and possibly noticed by your
own supervisors. While you may be not feel that a project is going
smoothly, your boss may not have any idea that you are running into
problems. If you address issues and problems before they get out of
hand, your supervisor will only know that things are running on time,
and that objectives are being met. And this is what sets a great
manager apart from one that is merely competent or good.
Cultivate
an environment where team project members feel comfortable approaching
you with potential problems. Listen to concerns and then solicit advice
from the team member regarding a possible solution. If it is something
that the team member can handle, the project manager should delegate
the solution to that team member, or offer to work with the member to
solve the problem. A good manager knows when her or his people can
handle the problem, and the members respect a manager who appreciates
their abilities.
It is possible to use
project management software to help assess risk, and this can be a very
helpful tool. However, it is important to note that while project
management software can provide hints and helps, it is ultimately up to
the project manager to be able to come up with a viable and appropriate
solution.
Article by Remedysoft, Inc.
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