Project management theory

Project management theory
See also
Management of complexity Agile portfolio management Management by projects Performance models Strategic project management Successful project management Software development process Project management office Project delivery method

Project management theory is the application of knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques to project activities in order to meet the project requirements. It is a set of principles, processes and practices used to manage projects from conception to completion. It involves the planning, scheduling, monitoring and controlling of all aspects of a project in order to meet its objectives. Project management theory also encompasses the coordination and integration of different elements of the project such as resources, tasks, timelines, and cost. It also involves effective communication and collaboration with stakeholders and other individuals involved in the project.

Example of project management theory

• The Triple Constraint Theory: The triple constraint theory is the most widely accepted and applied project management theory. It states that any project is constrained by three main factors, which are time, cost, and scope. This means that any changes to one of these will have an effect on the other two. For example, if the scope of the project increases, then the time and cost required to complete the project will increase as well.
• The Agile Project Management Framework: The Agile project management framework is based on the idea that projects should be completed in an iterative and incremental manner. This means that each iteration of the project should be broken down into small chunks and delivered in short cycles. This allows for the project team to test and refine the project as it is being developed, thus making it more efficient and effective.
• The Critical Path Method: The critical path method is a project management technique used to determine the most efficient way to complete a project. It involves creating a network diagram of the project tasks and then calculating the longest path from the start of the project to the end. This is the critical path and it will determine the minimum amount of time required to complete the project.
• Waterfall Project Management: This is a sequential approach with a linear progression of activities. It is characterized by rigid requirements, strict change control, and clear milestones.
• Earned Value Management (EVM): This method is used to measure project performance by combining scope, cost, and schedule information. It is used to generate reports and analyze trends.
• Lean Project Management: This approach focuses on eliminating waste and increasing efficiency. It is based on the principles of continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.
• Six Sigma: This is a data-driven approach used to reduce defects and improve process efficiency. It utilizes statistical tools and techniques to identify and reduce process variability.

Advantages of project management theory

Project management theory has many advantages, including:

• Improved efficiency and effectiveness: Project management theory provides a framework for managing projects more efficiently and effectively, enabling teams to make better use of their resources and reach their goals in a timely manner.
• Improved communication: Project management theory ensures that teams have clear communication protocols and channels, which can lead to improved collaboration and decision making.
• Reduced costs: By streamlining processes and better utilizing resources, project management theory can help to reduce costs and improve the bottom line.
• Improved project success: By providing teams with the tools they need to better manage their projects, project management theory can increase the likelihood of successful project outcomes.
• Improved customer satisfaction: Improved project management can lead to better customer satisfaction, as projects are completed in a timely and efficient manner.

Limitations of project management theory

Project management theory has its limitations, including:

• Limited ability to address the complexity of projects: Project management theory is a structured framework for managing projects, but it does not take into account the complex and unpredictable nature of projects. This can lead to issues such as incomplete or inadequate plans, poor execution, and difficulty responding to unexpected changes.
• Limited ability to address human factors: Project management theory is focused on project tasks, but it is not designed to deal with the human aspects of projects. It does not take into account the different personalities, motivations, and skills of team members, and how these can affect the success or failure of a project.
• Limited ability to account for risk: Project management theory does not take into account the potential risks that may arise during a project. It does not provide strategies to identify, assess, and mitigate risks.
• Limited ability to account for external factors: Project management theory ignores external factors such as changes in the external environment or changes in customer or supplier needs. These factors can have a significant impact on a project, but project management theory does not provide strategies to address them.

Suggested literature

• Richardson, G. L., & Jackson, B. M. (2018). Project management theory and practice. Auerbach Publications.
• Cicmil, S., & Hodgson, D. (2006). New possibilities for project management theory: A critical engagement. Project management journal, 37(3), 111-122.
• Ernø-Kjølhede, E. (2000). Project management theory and the management of research projects.