Why project management is important

Whenever we decide we want to do something, go somewhere, build something, achieve something, we need to know the answer to some questions. What are we trying to do? When will we start? What do we need? Can we do it alone, or do we need help? How long will it take? How much will it cost? These are typical questions asked at the start of any project and the answers are the building blocks of project management - defining what we want to do and working out the best way we can do it.

Structured project management means managing the project in a logical, organised way, following defined steps. A structured project management method is the written description of this logical, organised approach. PRINCE2® is a structured project management method.

We have briefly covered what structured project management, and hence PRINCE2®, are all about. Now for some more details about the PRINCE2® method.

Using the PRINCE2 method the following key features can be built into your projects:

Focus on outcomes

• A clearly defined Business Case
• Clearly identified objectives and roles.

Plans

• Documentation of plans, procedures, project requirements and important learning
• Defined project management parameters
• Flexible decision points
• Proper and clear start, middle and end of project.

Governance

• Involvement of management and stakeholders at the right time and place during the project
• Automatic management control of any deviations from the project plan.

Controls

• A controlled project environment with realistic estimations and defined tolerances
• Timely identification and management of risks
• Standardisation with your organisation, between your customers and with your suppliers.

Quality

• Good communication through shared vocabulary
• Achievement of desired quality in produced work.