Do You Need Project Management Skills?

I would suggest that your answer be “Yes, I need project management skills!”

Project management is hot! We are surrounded by projects!

Over the last several months I have been reading articles and advertisements about various programs, courses, bootcamps, and workshops to help develop skills in new leaders, managers, entrepreneurs, students, and staff at all levels of the organization. Many of these programs promote working with a team and include the presentation of the teams’ project as the final deliverable.

Ironically, I have not found any curricula, syllabi, or course outlines that include a module on project management skills. Are these organizations assuming that everyone knows how to effectively lead a project and participate on a project team? How unfortunate.

Providing an overview of the foundational skills associated with successful projects would be incredibly meaningful, and valuable, for individuals in all fields of work and in all types of roles. I have said repeatedly that “everyone benefits from learning project management skills. Everyone.”

I’m sure you have also read the articles about award ceremonies taking place in middle schools, high schools and colleges that focus on sharing the results of a project. Are these teams learning about project management throughout the school year in their standard curriculum? Or is there an assumption that the students will know what to do with a project?

Project management skills are life skills. You learn the foundational skills that can elevate the level of success with your projects and continue to apply what you have learned through various experiences throughout your life. These skills are valuable at school, at work, in the community, at home, and with your volunteer positions. Keep in mind that the definition of project management refers to the activities required to plan, organize, and manage tasks and people to achieve the goals of the project. Sounds like an essential skill set to me! Especially considering that we’re all working on projects – somewhere.

 If you have not done so already, it’s time to consider learning the fundamental concepts of project management principles. These skills will set you up for success, if you are leading a project, or are contributing to the project as a team member.

You with me?