Information Technology Project Management by Jack T. Marchewka: 12 Minute Summary

Summary

Jack T. Marchewka's book on IT Project Management emphasizes delivering Measurable Organizational Value (MOV). It covers creating a solid business case, project charter, and scope definition. The book highlights managing human resources, effective communication, and employing various project management techniques like risk management and quality assurance. Successful IT projects require a blend of technical expertise, people skills, and ethical leadership.

Takeaways

• 📈 **Measurable Organizational Value (MOV)**: IT projects should aim to provide tangible benefits to the organization, ensuring that the value added is quantifiable.
• 🔍 **Project Charter**: A clear project charter is essential, outlining the MOV, required resources, and serving as a contract to prevent misunderstandings.
• 👥 **Human Resources as Assets**: Recognize the importance of human resources in IT projects, managing their impact, and addressing their needs.
• 🛠️ **Technical and People Skills**: IT project managers must balance technical expertise with the ability to manage and communicate effectively with team members and stakeholders.
• 📋 **Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)**: Utilize WBS to develop a comprehensive project plan by breaking down tasks into a logical hierarchy.
• 🔒 **Scope Management**: Clearly define the project scope to prevent scope creep, which can lead to increased costs and project delays.
• 📊 **Project Estimation Techniques**: Employ standard estimation techniques like the Delphi method and time-boxing to enhance the accuracy of project planning.
• 💡 **Risk Management**: Embrace business risks and plan for contingencies to turn potential threats into opportunities.
• 📚 **Knowledge Base**: Maintain a reliable and accessible project knowledge base that is regularly updated to support effective communication and project management.
• 🏆 **Quality Standards**: Develop a comprehensive quality plan with clear standards and verification processes to ensure successful project execution.
• 🌐 **Leadership Styles**: Adapt leadership styles to different situations, leveraging emotional intelligence to foster a supportive team culture and ethical behavior.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of Jack T. Marchewka's book on Information Technology Project Management?

The primary focus of Jack T. Marchewka's book is on providing Measurable Organizational Value (MOV) while navigating the complex landscape of IT projects.

What are the key themes highlighted in the summary of Marchewka's book?

The key themes highlighted include building a solid business case, understanding the project's charter and scope, managing human resources, and maintaining strong and effective communication with stakeholders.

Why is it important to justify the additional value an IT project will bring to an organization?

It is important to justify the additional value an IT project will bring to ensure that the project is aligned with the organization's goals and to secure the necessary support and resources.

What is the significance of a project charter in IT project management?

A project charter serves as a contractual agreement that clearly states the project's MOV and required resources, helping to prevent misunderstandings and providing an overview of the project plan.

How does managing human resources effectively contribute to the success of an IT project?

Effectively managing human resources involves understanding the impact of the project on individuals and the company, managing the team, understanding stakeholder needs, minimizing friction, training new users, and enlightening management on the project's benefits.

What is 'scope creep' and how can it be managed in IT projects?

'Scope creep' refers to the phenomenon of constant changes to a project that inflate its objectives without proper protocols. It can be managed by including a detailed explanation of how it can be handled, who is liable for extra costs, and how people affected by the changes will be managed.

What role does the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) play in project planning?

The Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) is a tool that enables the development of a comprehensive project plan by breaking it down into a logical hierarchy and compartmentalized tasks.

Why is it crucial to establish contingencies when managing risks in IT projects?

Establishing contingencies is crucial because it allows for the anticipation and management of potential risks, which can lead to increased profit opportunities and mitigate negative outcomes.

How does a knowledge base contribute to the success of a project?

A reliable and accessible knowledge base is key to a successful project as it allows for regular progress reports and effective communication among team members and stakeholders.

What are some of the leadership styles mentioned in the book that can influence a project's success?

The book mentions various leadership styles including compelling others, ruling, working together loosely, overseeing a democracy, setting a pace, or leading as a coach.

Why is it important to properly close an IT project, regardless of its success or failure?

Properly closing an IT project is important to fully document the new system, capture useful information, and deliver an honest, constructive close-out report that includes input from stakeholders and management, ensuring that the value delivered and business lessons learned are clearly demonstrated.