Project management plays a crucial role in ensuring the successful execution of any endeavor. To achieve desired outcomes, it is essential to have the right project management resources at your disposal. Being a project manager is undoubtedly one of the most challenging occupations worldwide.
In this era of technological advancements, staying updated, managing your team, meeting deadlines, and keeping up with clients pose significant challenges. Fortunately, numerous project manager resources and tools are available to simplify your job.
In this article, we will explore a variety of resources that can assist you in effectively planning, organizing, and executing your projects.
Project Management Methodologies: A Comprehensive Guide to Success
Project management methodologies offer a structured approach to managing projects, providing guidelines, processes, and best practices. With numerous methodologies available, it is crucial to comprehend their strengths and weaknesses to select the most suitable one for your project.
Agile: Flexibility and Collaboration for Efficient Project Delivery
Agile is a widely embraced methodology that prioritizes flexibility and adaptability. By fostering collaboration among team members and emphasizing frequent iterations, Agile ensures the delivery of value in a timely manner.
Waterfall: Linear Approach for Projects with Well-Defined Requirements
Waterfall methodology follows a linear approach, completing each project phase before moving on to the next. It is best suited for projects with clearly defined requirements and limited room for changes.
Scrum: Iterative Approach for Enhanced Transparency and Continuous Improvement
Scrum, falling under the Agile umbrella, divides work into small time-boxed iterations known as sprints. It promotes transparency and continuous improvement through regular meetings and feedback sessions.
Lean: Eliminating Waste and Focusing on Value Delivery
Lean methodology aims to eliminate waste throughout the project by concentrating on delivering value while reducing unnecessary activities and processes.
Leveraging Online Collaboration Platforms for Seamless Project Execution
Online collaboration platforms are instrumental in facilitating efficient teamwork regardless of geographical barriers or time zones. These platforms offer features such as task tracking, document sharing, real-time communication tools, and progress monitoring dashboards.
By utilizing these platforms in conjunction with the appropriate project management methodology, you can optimize collaboration among team members and streamline project execution seamlessly.
Best Project Management Resources – Blogs, Training, Courses, eBook & Software
Welcome to this all-in-one guide on the resources for project management. Designed to empower both seasoned and aspiring project managers, this guide encompasses an array of tools including insightful blogs, diverse training programs, courses, valuable eBooks, and robust software.
From garnering wisdom through experts’ experiences to streamlining your projects with the right tools, this meticulously crafted guide is a treasure trove for those seeking to excel in project management.
Project Management Resources: Blogs
1. Onethread Blog
Onethread blog offers a daily dose of inspiration and valuable content for project managers and their teams. It covers a wide range of topics related to work-life management, team collaboration, effective leadership, and more. Onethread is a project management software that simplifies project and team management, and it also provides a mobile app for iOS and Android for on-the-go project management.
Switch to Onethread and simplify your project and team management.
2. PMI Knowledge Center
The PMI Knowledge Center is a valuable project management resource that provides access to thought leadership articles by industry experts from the Project Management Institute. It covers a diverse range of practical project management topics, including cost control, meeting deadlines, and risk management.
3. PMStudent
PMStudent offers project management courses and its blog serves as a resource for beginners, providing fundamental knowledge and experiences shared by professionals who started their journey in the industry. The articles offer a solid foundation for those new to project management.
4. ProjectManagement.com Techniques
ProjectManagement.com Techniques offers a collection of wiki pages filled with useful and practical information about project management. These pages explain various project management techniques, including information gathering, communication methods, and efficient execution. Users can contribute their own information and edits under their username.
5. ProjectManager.com
ProjectManager.com’s blog is a treasure trove of advice, tips, and strategies from experts in the field. Whether you’re looking to successfully manage projects, lead teams, or boost productivity, this blog offers a wealth of resources. Regardless of the project management app you use, the blog provides valuable insights to help you complete your project management tasks.
6. Glossary of Project Management Terms
This online resource offers a comprehensive glossary of project management terms arranged in alphabetical order, making it easy to search for specific terms. It provides clear explanations and definitions of terms commonly used in project management.
7. Project Times
Project Times stands out as an online magazine dedicated to the latest trends in the project management world. It goes beyond a traditional blog, providing valuable insights from project management experts and offering a wide range of resources. Whether you’re a project manager seeking ways to enhance your knowledge or looking for strategies to achieve success and stand out, Project Times has something thought-provoking to offer.
8. Bob Sutton
Bob Sutton, a Stanford professor and bestselling author, shares his extensive experience as a project manager through his blog. He covers topics such as project management, work performance, and leadership, providing valuable insights and expertise.
9. Project Place
Project Place blog focuses on project collaboration tools, trends, and insights, along with case studies and statistics in project management. By following this blog, you can learn about industry operations, discover methods to improve projects, and overcome common challenges in project management.
10. A Girl’s Guide to Project Management
A Girl’s Guide to Project Management offers a unique perspective on project management from a female point of view. The blog provides a collection of articles tailored for women in the industry, serving as a hub of guides and advice while fostering knowledge sharing among women in project management.
Training for Certifications – Best Resources For Project Management
1. Learning Tree
Online training and certification courses in project management are provided by Learning Tree International. These courses serve as a platform for individuals to expand their knowledge and elevate their skill set in effectively overseeing diverse project responsibilities.
2. Essentials of Project Management Series – PMI
The Essentials of Project Management Series, presented by PMI, serves as a comprehensive and foundational resource for individuals seeking to master the core principles and practices of effective project management.
This series offers a structured curriculum that covers key project management concepts, empowering participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in various project-driven environments.
3. Fundamentals of Successful Project Management
Skillpath’s Fundamentals of Successful Project Management is a dynamic program designed to equip participants with the essential tools and techniques needed to navigate the complexities of project management.
Through practical insights and hands-on learning, this course lays a strong foundation for individuals aiming to drive successful project outcomes and achieve their professional goals.
4. Project Management Training
Global Knowledge’s Project Management Training offers a comprehensive learning experience that empowers individuals with the skills and strategies necessary to excel in project management roles.
With a focus on real-world application and industry best practices, this training equips participants to effectively lead projects from inception to successful completion.
5. Project Management Fundamentals
ed2go’s Project Management Fundamentals course provides a solid foundation for individuals seeking to understand the core principles and practices of project management. Through interactive lessons and practical exercises, participants gain valuable insights into planning, executing, and managing projects successfully in six weeks.
6. Passionate Project Manager
PassionPM’s “Passionate Project Manager” program sparks project management passion through a distinctive blend of practical techniques and genuine enthusiasm for success. This approach fosters a dynamic skill set uniting expertise with authentic dedication to project excellence.
As a PMI-registered education provider, Passionate Project Manager (PPM) delivers diverse learning modules, including on-site training, classes, professional development units (PDUs), and live online certification preparation courses.
7. RMC Project Management
rmcls’ RMC Project Management delivers all-encompassing training, equipping individuals with practical skills for successful project execution. Emphasizing real-world application, it prepares participants for excellence in diverse project management roles.
As a learning solutions provider, RMC offers live remote classes on project management, utilizing interactive tools like live chat, virtual whiteboards, and file sharing to foster collaborative online learning.
8. Udemy Project Management Training
Udemy’s Project Management Training provides a versatile platform for mastering project management skills, offering a diverse array of expert-led courses. With a global reach, Udemy offers on-demand classes spanning project planning, integration, and exam preparation like PMP/CAPM.
Schools & Courses – Paid and Free Project Management Resources
1. Ashford University – Online BA in Project Management
Founded in 1918 in Clinton, Iowa, Ashford University offers an online Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Project Management. This program focuses on teaching students the technical aspects of project management, providing them with the necessary skills for a successful career as a project manager.
Coursework covers a wide range of topics, including project control, quality assurance, business policy, cost management, risk analysis, team development, and leadership.
2. Bellevue University – Online BS in Project Management
Established in 1966 by the Bellevue, Nebraska Chamber of Commerce, Bellevue University offers an online Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Project Management. This program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and abilities required to effectively manage and lead project teams in diverse business environments.
The curriculum combines business and leadership principles with the strategies and skills necessary for a career in project management.
3. Capella University – Online MBA in Project Management
Capella University provides an online Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree program with a specialization in Project Management. This program focuses on developing leadership and team-building skills, as well as mastering project procurement, solicitation, planning, management, and control.
The specialization is accredited by the PMI Global Accreditation Center for Project Management (GAC), ensuring high-quality education.
4. George Washington University – Masters of Science in Project Management
Since 1998, the School of Business at George Washington University has been at the forefront of distance learning. The Master of Science in Project Management (MSPM) program it offers features an innovative curriculum that extends beyond the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK).
This program not only introduces students to global methodologies but also delves into decision sciences and advanced applications in project management.
5. Boston University – Masters of Science in Project Management
Ranked 8th in the nation for online business programs by US News & World Report in 2014, Boston University (BU) offers a Master of Science in Project Management (MSPM) program accredited by the Project Management Institute (PMI).
This program prepares graduates to manage complex projects, facilitate effective communication between project teams and clients, and successfully balance competing demands in terms of scope, time, cost, and quality.
Guides and eBooks – Project Management Resources Free
1. A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge issued by PMI
The PMBOK Guide, 5th edition, is a comprehensive resource covering all aspects of general project management. It is a collaborative effort of experienced project managers and serves as an essential reference for project managers.
It also serves as a study guide for individuals pursuing PMP and CAPM project management certifications. While it may be considered dry reading, it is highly regarded and even used as a basis for ISO project management standards.
2. Project Management Absolute Beginner’s Guide by Gregory Horine
Written by Gregory Horine, a PMP and IT project management professional, this book caters to new project managers seeking quick guidance.
With over two decades of experience, the author provides practical insights and pointers for mastering various project management tasks, including budgeting, scheduling, project execution, team management, project closure, and learning from experience.
3. Principles of Project Management by Paul Newton and Helen Bristoll
Part of a series of project management books by Paul Newton and Helen Bristoll, this book aims to familiarize managers with project management roles, terminology, and processes.
It covers fundamental concepts and is accompanied by other titles in the series, such as Managing a Project Team, Managing the Project Scope, Managing the Project Schedule, and Managing the Project Budget.
4. Introduction to Agile Methods by Sondra Ashmore Ph.D.
Focused on software development, this book introduces readers to agile methodologies such as Scrum, Kanban, XP, FDD, Lean, and Crystal. Written by Sondra Ashmore, Ph.D., it guides readers in establishing agile processes and highlights the importance of collaboration among various roles involved in project management.
5. Peopleware: Productive Projects and Teams by Tom DeMarco & Timothy Lister
Tom DeMarco and Timothy Lister explore the social aspects of software development in this book, emphasizing that many challenges in the field are sociological rather than purely technical.
Supported by research, statistics, and anecdotes, the authors delve into topics such as workspace theory, corporate entropy, group chemistry, work environment, and more.
6. Creativity Inc by Amy Wallace & Edwin Catmull
Written by Amy Wallace and Edwin Catmull, the co-founder of Pixar Animation Studios, this book offers insights into managing creative teams, delivering projects, and fostering innovation.
Drawing from Catmull’s experiences working with luminaries like Steve Jobs and George Lucas, it provides real-world examples and practical advice for nurturing an innovative culture.
7. The Toyota Way: 14 Management Principles from the World’s Greatest Manufacturer by Jeffrey K. Liker
Jeffrey K. Liker explores the management principles that propelled Toyota to become a global leader in manufacturing. Although primarily focused on the manufacturing industry, this book offers valuable concepts applicable to project management, such as Kanban, JIT, 4P, 5S, quality management, visual control, and continuous improvement.
8. The Essential Drucker by Peter F. Drucker
Considered the father of modern management, Peter F. Drucker’s compilation of writings spans 60 years and analyzes the impact of management principles and practices on individuals, organizations, and society.
This timeless classic provides invaluable insights into management and will remain relevant for years to come.
Platforms & Software
1. Onethread
OneThread provides a flexible project management solution. With its reporting and real-time collaboration features, this enterprise-level software supports efficient project management and promotes effective team collaboration.
2. Wrike
Wrike is a highly regarded cloud-based project management and collaboration software. It offers comprehensive visibility into team projects, simplifies planning processes, and streamlines workflows, ensuring efficient project management.
3. Monday
Formerly known as daPulse, Monday is an intuitive collaboration and communication app. It allows team members to work efficiently in sync from a single platform, promoting seamless collaboration and effective project coordination.
4. Freshservice
Freshservice is an IT Service Desk platform that includes a comprehensive project management toolkit. With this tool, teams can enhance collaboration, align IT operations with business goals, and manage projects effectively within a unified platform.
5. FunctionFox
FunctionFox is a project management and time-tracking software designed to enhance project tracking accuracy. It facilitates end-to-end project management, from concept to completion, while reducing administrative time and boosting overall productivity.
6. Zoho Projects
Zoho Projects offers a range of features to help users plan project activities, assign tasks, manage resources, and foster effective team collaboration. This software enables teams to work together efficiently and achieve project milestones on time.
Podcasts & Video Channels
1. Project Management Institute Podcasts
Launched in October 2017, the Projectified Podcast by the Project Management Institute (PMI) offers valuable insights, perspectives, and real-world experiences for project managers facing today’s challenges. While PMI doesn’t have a regular podcast show, this program serves as a valuable resource.
2. The 5 Minutes Project Management Podcast
Since 2007, Ricardo Vargas has been hosting the 5 Minutes Project Management Podcast, which features over 400 episodes. This podcast covers a wide range of topics related to project management and provides practical strategies for handling projects, portfolio management, and risk management.
3. The PM Podcast
Hosted by Cornelius Fichtner, The PM Podcast is one of the most prolific programs in the project management podcast landscape, boasting over 400 episodes to date. Fichtner engages in conversations with notable project managers and partners with The PM PrepCast to assist individuals in preparing for the PMP exam and earning Professional Development Units (PDUs) required for maintaining PMI-certified credentials.
4. Project Management Paradise
Presented by Cora Systems, a leading provider of project management software, Project Management Paradise offers valuable insights from experts around the world. The podcast covers various topics, including project management methodologies, product management, PM software, and organizational leadership.
5. PM for the Masses Podcast
With over 116 episodes as of July 2018, PM for the Masses Podcast, hosted by Cesar Abeid, provides expert tips to enhance project management expertise. Abeid also shares personal experiences, discussing both successes and failures in project management.
6. People and Projects Podcast
Hosted by Andy Kaufman, the People and Projects Podcast features interviews with project management gurus, authors, and personalities. The show explores the relationship between leadership and project management, offering insights on successful project delivery and team leadership.
7. The Sensible Project Manager Podcast
Mark Phillipy, host of The Sensible Project Manager Podcast, draws from his 15 years of experience as a project manager, providing insider perspectives on project management. He conducts interviews with esteemed project managers and business leaders to gain further insights.
8. Project Management War Stories
Wayne Thompson hosts the Project Management War Stories podcast, where he shares lessons learned from both successful and failed projects. Thompson invites seasoned and recognized project management practitioners to offer solutions to industry-specific business problems.
These podcast programs offer project management professionals a wealth of knowledge and expertise, making them valuable resources for staying updated and enhancing their skills in the field.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Key Elements Of A Successful Project Management Methodology?
The key elements of a successful project management methodology include clear goals, effective communication, proper planning and scheduling, risk assessment and management, team collaboration, and continuous evaluation and improvement.
How Do Online Collaboration Platforms Improve Team Communication And Efficiency In Project Management?
Online collaboration platforms improve team communication and efficiency in project management by providing a centralized space for real-time communication, document sharing, task tracking, and scheduling. They enable seamless collaboration among team members regardless of their location or time zone.
What Are The Important Features To Consider When Selecting Project Management Software For A Team?
When selecting project management software for your team, important features to consider include task tracking, collaboration tools, customizable dashboards, document sharing, and integration with other tools.
How Can Project Planning And Scheduling Techniques Help In Achieving Project Goals?
Project planning and scheduling techniques are essential for achieving project goals. They help you create a roadmap, allocate resources effectively, set realistic timelines, identify potential risks, and ensure smooth coordination among team members.
What Are Some Common Challenges Faced In Risk Management And How Can They Be Mitigated Effectively?
Some common challenges faced in risk management include poor identification of risks, lack of expertise, and inadequate communication. These can be mitigated effectively by conducting thorough risk assessments, seeking expert advice, and maintaining open lines of communication within the project team.
Conclusion
In conclusion, project management resources are essential for the successful completion of any project. By implementing effective methodologies, utilizing online collaboration platforms, and utilizing project management software, teams can streamline their processes and ensure efficient communication and collaboration.
Project planning and scheduling, risk management, resource allocation and management are also crucial aspects that need to be carefully considered.
