What Is Project Management? | Google Project Management Certificate

What is Project Management?

Definition and Importance

• Project management is defined as the application of knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques to meet project requirements and achieve desired outcomes.

• It ensures that projects deliver expected outcomes on time and within budget, making it valuable for businesses.

Real-Life Example

• A school district's partnership with a telehealth company illustrates project management: implementing technology for student health checkups has clear goals and timelines.

• The project involves multiple tasks that must be planned and tracked effectively to ensure successful completion.

Consequences of Poor Project Management

Financial Impact

• Poor project management can lead to significant financial losses, with trillions wasted annually across organizations globally.

• Statistics show 48% of projects miss delivery dates, 43% exceed budget targets, and 31% fail to meet organizational goals.

Role of Project Managers at Google

Responsibilities

• At Google, many project managers are referred to as program managers who oversee multiple projects related to specific products or teams.

• The speaker serves as a responsible innovation program manager ensuring alignment with Google's AI principles in technology development.

Value Addition through Project Management

Key Functions

• Project managers follow processes involving planning, organizing, managing tasks, budgeting, and controlling costs to ensure timely completion.

• Their role includes ensuring that the project's outcome adds value to the organization by creating or modifying services tailored to customer needs.

Daily Life of a Project Manager

Typical Responsibilities

• Daily tasks vary based on industry but generally include planning (e.g., gathering requirements), managing tasks (communicating milestones), and budgeting (controlling costs).

Understanding the Role of a Project Manager

Daily Responsibilities and Tools

• A project manager utilizes various tools, techniques, and methodologies on a daily basis, ensuring that each day presents new challenges and opportunities.

• The role is dynamic; there is "never a dull moment," highlighting the engaging nature of project management.

• One of the most rewarding aspects of being a project manager is witnessing the growth of a project from inception to completion.