The principles of successful project management: It takes careful planning, skilful leadership … and a little bit of luck

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this article is to describe how to manage a project successfully.

Design/methodology/approach

The article presents the advice of Ron Rosenhead, chief executive of Project Agency, a north London‐based project‐management training and development firm, who has years of experience as a project manager, trainer and commentator on the subject.

Findings

The key steps to successful projects are explained: identify the business case; define the project; close the project; and learn the lessons.

Practical implications

The article emphasizes the importance of: defining the project; clarifying project roles and having a clear project‐management structure; identifying and reducing risks; taking the people along with you; developing a robust project plan; delivering what you say you will deliver; dealing with project changes; and stopping project “dribble”. It explains how to avoid the social costs of loss of precious time and money through project “stray”.

Originality/value

The article provides a strategic, standard framework for project managers that allows them to: define, plan and control projects; recognize the role(s) they play and define other people's contributions to the project‐management process; recognize and reduce risks in all types of project work; and use a range of tools related to project management.

Citation

Little, B. (2011), "The principles of successful project management: It takes careful planning, skilful leadership … and a little bit of luck", Human Resource Management International Digest, Vol. 19 No. 7, pp. 36-39. https://doi.org/10.1108/09670731111175597