The Role of a Project Manager and Key Concepts
Chapter Four
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the role and responsibilities of a Project Manager.
- Learn the core competencies and skills required.
- Get familiar with the Project Management framework and key terminology.
- Explore leadership vs. management in project environments.
- Understand the importance of the triple constraint and stakeholder management.
Summary: What Is a Project Manager’s Primary Role?
The project manager’s core responsibility is integration management—bringing together all elements of the project into a cohesive whole. This includes aligning people, processes, goals, and organizational priorities.
Integration Involves:
- Coordinating team efforts and stakeholder contributions.
- Ensuring compliance with scope, schedule, cost, and quality baselines.
- Managing risks and adapting to uncertainty.
- Aligning the project with strategic goals of the organization.
During Execution:
- Team Members focus on delivering tasks and work packages.
- Project Sponsors provide support, protect resources, and advise the PM.
- Project Managers integrate efforts, communicate across teams, and manage constraints.
Essential Skills of a Project Manager:
- Technical project management knowledge
- Innovative and critical thinking
- Collaborative leadership
- Empathy and communication
- Business and organizational awareness