So I learned this cool acronym for the roles of a project manager:
DIRECT
The project manager directs the project (similar to a director who is the project manager of a movie).
Here is how the project manager DIRECTs the project:
Define – Identify the opportunity or issue that the project will address including, the vision, scope, resources, and measures of success. (i.e. the “Charter”).
Investigate – Explore options and pros/cons for each (i.e. an “Analysis of Alternatives”).
Resolve – Solve and resolve (i.e. commit to) the course of action that will be pursued (i.e. “Project Plan”).
Execute -Do the project and track/manage cost, schedule, scope, quality, risks, and actions items (i.e. “Scorecard”).
Change – Identify process and technology techniology changes, test these, fix outstanding items, and make the cutover (i.e. “User Acceptance Testing,” “Punch List,” and “Go Live Plan”).
Transition – Migrate people to the new solution, communicate the changes, overcome resistance, and conclude the project (i.e. “Communications Plan” and “Lessons Learned”).
(Source Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
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