The ability to effectively steer projects towards timely completion and successful outcomes is a critical skill in today’s dynamic and turbulent economic environment. Using interactive exercises and case-studies, this class covers the essential skills, concepts and tools for successful project management, such as the art and science of defining and framing projects for risk management, planning and scheduling projects to meet demanding deadlines and budgets, and using state of the art information technology to improve project efficiency and effectiveness. Focus: Learn key concepts—how to plan and schedule projects, mitigate technical and market uncertainty, and manage social aspects of project execution- for crisp project execution. Topics covered:

• Defining, Framing, and Achieving Project Success
• Developing a “Business Case” and Scope for a Project
• Project Planning and Scheduling Essentials: Critical Path and Schedule Risk Management
• Using Software for Planning and Schedule Development (Microsoft Project & Open-source Software)
• Project Execution: Assembling and Managing a Team
• Learning from Projects: Closure and Renewal
• Tailoring Project Management to Different Contexts & Industries, Including Non-Profits