How to Implement the 8 Knowledge Areas in Project Management for Success

Project management is an essential component of every major business industry. As a project manager, the responsibility of delivering a successful project lies within your hands. To this end, you need to implement the eight knowledge areas in project management properly and efficiently. These eight knowledge areas are essential for the success of any project, regardless of the industry.

In this article, we will discuss how to implement the eight knowledge areas of project management, including planning, executing, monitoring and controlling, and closing. These knowledge areas are the essential pillars of project management that project managers must understand to ensure that the project is completed successfully.

Planning

The planning stage is the beginning of every project. During this stage, the project manager must identify the project’s objectives, constraints, and goals. The project manager must also identify the stakeholders and their roles and ensure that all necessary resources are available.

Creating a project plan involves the creation of a work breakdown structure (WBS), which breaks the project into smaller, more manageable components. The project manager must also establish a project schedule and budget. A comprehensive project plan creates a roadmap that guides the project from start to finish.

Executing

In the executing phase, the project team brings the project plan to life. The project manager must ensure that all team members understand their roles and responsibilities and that everyone is aware of the project’s objectives and goals.

Here, the project manager must coordinate and motivate the team to deliver the project’s milestones and tasks according to the project’s schedule. Communication is vital during this phase, and the project manager should ensure that all team members have the necessary information to complete their tasks effectively.

Monitoring and Controlling

During this phase, the project manager must ensure that the project stays on track. The project manager must monitor the project’s progress, identify any deviations from the project plan, and implement corrective action if necessary.

The monitoring and controlling phase requires the project manager to review project performance regularly, identify areas that require improvement, and take necessary corrective actions. One of the essential tools that project managers can use during this phase is the earned value management (EVM) system.

Closing

The closing phase represents the end of the project. During this phase, the project manager must ensure that all project objectives are met, all stakeholders’ requirements are satisfied, and that the completed work meets the acceptable quality standards.

Project managers must conduct a final review of the project and create a final report, which must be submitted to the stakeholders. The project manager must also ensure that all necessary documents, reports, and financial records are complete and filed appropriately.

Conclusion

In conclusion, implementing the eight knowledge areas of project management is critical to delivering a successful project. The project manager must understand the planning, executing, monitoring and controlling, and closing phases to ensure the project stays on track.

Project managers must also create and follow a project plan that breaks down the project into smaller, more manageable components. Regular communication with the project team and stakeholders is necessary. Finally, using tools such as the EVM system will help project managers to stay on track and make informed decisions when required.

By using a structured framework to implement the eight knowledge areas of project management, project managers can ensure that their projects are completed successfully and meet all stakeholders’ requirements.