Project Management Methodology

How to Optimize Leadership Using Inexpensive PM Tools and Software

Jul 8, 2009

Having a balanced approach to project management includes having a scalable project management methodology.

Finding a scalable project management methodology and inexpensive project management software can be a challenge for managing a project, yet finding the right tools and method of managing projects is crucial to success.

There are affordable and even free project management software programs available that will help a project manager to cope with a project of any size effectively. It is just as important to have the right project management methodology in place.

The Project Management Balance

Over managing a project can bog down a project with too much paperwork and bureaucracy which means that the project manager and his team spend most of their time filling out forms and wasting time. This can be very frustrating, especially on a small project in which the only paperwork necessary might be taking down and sending out minutes of meetings.

Micro-managing a project is as bad as under managing a project. Project managers sometimes do both, the reason for this is that they don't have a scalable project management methodology to work from.

Under managing a project can be frustrating. Some project managers have been known to to have meetings to discuss important issues relating to the project, and not make a single note or keep any form of minutes. This approach will almost certainly signal the demise of the project and probably a swift end to the project manager's career since, when there is no documented communication among all players, delays and misunderstandings will occur.

Project management software tools are important as they will help a project manager to successfully plan the project. These project management software tools can be expensive but there are a number of Open Source tools available for those who are willing to dig around a bit on the Internet.

Project Management Software

There are many Project Management Software packages to choose from- some free, some not free. Microsoft's MS Project is probably the most well-known of the all project management software available.

The problem is that most of the well known project management software packages can be expensive, especially for a project manager who is just starting out. Big companies producing such software have the budget to advertise.

However, knowing where to look can unearth many good quality free project management packages as an alternative to MS Project. For example, a web search will help the 'cash strapped' Project Manager cut down on startup costs by finding free resources on the web or web based project management software which may be cheaper to buy online than purchasing books on the subject.

Many Linux Operating Systems come with a number of such project management tools. For example, SuSE 11 comes with a package called Planner which compares to, and even looks a bit like MS Project. Planner is free!

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