Here's everything you need to know to set up a project management group in your organization. I have included links to several free tools-spreadsheet, sample business case document, and PowerPoint slides-to help you.
Nice article Victoria. They make setting up a PMO sound so easy! Could very well be the case in a smaller organization. Taking on something like this in a larger organization can be a challenge. Thanks for the post!
Interesting discussion about how Agile and traditional ID roles can be integrated. Thanks for sharing. I often wonder about how ID work can be done at a faster more "agile" pace.
"Anger can move people to improve and surmount challenges or it can destroy an organization from the inside out." Tips for the emotionally intelligent project manager.
Project managing e-learning. More is worse! This blog outlines some of the pitfalls that developing E-learning shares with traditional project management as well as some challenges unique to these types of projects. Some solutions are also suggested, mostly dealing with keeping your project plan agile and iterative.
Thanks for posting this article, Brook. Because it talks about elearning being software (tech) development and content development at the same time, it applies to my case study...and because it talks about training struggles, it is reflective of my own work environment too.
This article brings up some valid points that I wish I had read a year or so ago. Originally I thought eLearning was simple converting F2F material for an online environment. At its basic concept it is, but the complexity of this process is much more complicated and resource intensive than I imagined. Those considering the jump from F2F should seriously consider the points of this article and the affect on their organization resources. Thanks for the info.
This article is relatively old (2002). Nonetheless, it contains timeless tips to ensure eLearning success, particularly with regard to managing stakeholder expectations. -Duncan McBogg
Abstract:
Leading a major e-learning or blended learning initiative is a relatively new, complex and high-stakes challenge. Success depends on a variety of factors, not the least of which is the project leader's ability to manage threats in the form of miscommunication among key constituents, excessive rework, missed milestones, cost overruns, poor quality deliverables, etc. To help ensure the success of your organization's learning initiatives, consider how you might apply these proven tips:
No matter how great we are at creating learning solutions, we will not even get off the ground without the right content and context. Sometimes, working with SMEs can be one of the most difficult parts of the process. This article provides four great suggestions for how to effectively work with your SME.
The "Help them take a step back" bullet is an excellent point. A lot of times, SMEs try to put EVERYTHING about a topic in a training and if you tell them everything, they remember nothing. I use Action Mapping to keep SME's (and me) focused on what content should be taught. Great article!
Jenna, these guidelines are simple but powerful. What of the greatest challenges I had on a recent project was to get the SME to back off and take care of the content, not the learning materials. I never really succeeded but it might have helped if I had the #4 guideline instilled in our heads early in the project.
Managing scope creep in project management is a challenging job that needs clearly defined, documented and controlled specifications. Scope creep can sneak up, morph and destroy a project.
The very cool IDEO methodology Kenny mentioned in a discussion during our course:
It is a mindset Design Thinking is the confidence that everyone can be part of creating a more desirable future, and a process to take action when faced with a difficult challenge. That kind of optimism is well needed in education.
I am reading the book written by the founder of this group. It is an enjoyable read and this company also runs a helpful blog. I think it is great for people and organizations that feel challenged by having those difficult conversations.
The Five Dysfunctions of a Team has become the world's most definitive source on practical information for building teams. The book's impact extends beyond business schools, churches, non-profit organizations, professional sports teams and the military. * When you work with a team it is important to understand the dynamics. When you understand what can hinder the team then it is easier to understand ways to help rebuild/strengthen the team - Vail*