The project manager is responsible for leading the projects from its initiation to closing phase. It includes planning, execution, monitoring, and controlling closure to ensure that project objectives are realized with efficiency but without careless consideration of stakeholders’ expectations.
A perfect example of a breakdown of detailed responsibility of a project manager with samples is as follows;
1. Project Planning
- Define the project scope, objectives, and deliverables.
- Build an ideal end-to-end project plan including timelines, milestones, and resource needs.
- Identify risks and create risk management strategies.
Example:
For example, a project manager working on a software system’s implementation collaborates with the stakeholders to define the desired functionalities. He develops a plan that details all crucial milestones, allocates resources, and treats risks such as data migration issues or integration challenges.
2. Tell the Team:
- Assemble a project team with the required skills and expertise.
- Assign work and responsibility to team members.
- Foster collaboration and communication among team members.
Example:
In a typical construction project, the project manager hires and manages the team of architects, engineers, and contractors. The project manager then allocates the tasks to those team members, facilitates communication and guides them through smooth sailing for an intensive operation throughout the project lifecycle.
3. Stakeholder Management
- Identifying stakeholders and understanding those expectations.
- Updating stakeholders on the progress of the programme and any issues as they arise.
- Serve to manage the relationship and deal with concern beforehand.
Example:
For a product development project, the project manager interacts with internal stakeholders like marketing and sales teams and end customers. They usually provide updates, receive feedback and address concerns to get the product align with market perspective.
4. Risk Management
- These include identifying and assessing any probable risks.
- Management strategies should then be formulated to reduce either the likelihood or effect of the risks.
- Monitor risks and develop plans with contingencies when necessary.
Example:
In the case of a project manager in a manufacturing project, he has different risks foreseen such as disrupted supply chains, quality issues, etc. To ensure that the entire project timeline isn’t affected during times when things happen suddenly, the project manager prepares backup suppliers and alternate manufacturing plans.
5. Implementation and monitoring of the project
- Execute it following the plan and the planned resources.
- Monitoring includes progress, milestone management, and change control.
- Make corrective action to the issues and thereby get the project back on the track.
Example:
The project manager will have control over all projects initiated through the marketing campaign and will track milestones while measuring performance against KPIs. Any deviations from the initial strategy and resources allocated will have to be accommodated within the new budget to achieve the stated goals of the campaign.
6. Budget and Cost Management
- Establish and manage the budget for the project, including cost estimates and tracking of costs.
- Track and manage the costs pertaining to different expenditure types.
- Resolve over-budget or cap-budget issues on time.
Example:
For instance, the project manager prepares a budget for an infrastructure project which covers the materials, labour, permits, and equipment required to accomplish that particular project. The manager constantly monitors expenses against the approved budget, thus taking requisite mitigating measures to avert budget overruns.
7. Communication and Reporting
- Now that communication channels have been established, they will facilitate the timely passage of information.
- Periodic reports will be prepared on the project status for the stakeholders and top management.
- Your services will be made available to facilitate meetings for collaboration and progress updating
Example:
In an IT project, a project manager regularly meets with his or her team and stakeholders in order to share updates. The project manager also writes comprehensive reports covering progress with regard to milestones, risks, and challenges, which he or she shares with all stakeholders for transparency and alignment.
8. Project Closure and Evaluation
The project is to be closed neatly in preparation for handover of deliverables and final documentation. Conduct a post-project evaluation capturing lessons learned. Celebrate the project successes and acknowledge the contributions of the team to its success.
Example:
After the new software system implementation, where user manuals and training materials were provided, the project manager undertakes a post-implementation review to evaluate success, gather feedback, and document lessons that will facilitate future projects.
