Strategic Project Management

Project management is the practice of applying knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques to complete tasks and deliver value while achieving a desired outcome.

In this course, we will break down the fundamental concepts of project management – whether it be software development, building construction, disaster relief, or sales expansion – we will explore the key aspects of project management, including the distinct phases each project goes through from initiation to closure, and the critical role of project managers in ensuring success by motivating teams and meeting project needs.

As project management has evolved into a distinct profession driving the modern “Project Economy,” this course will highlight how it serves as a strategic organizational competence essential for driving change and achieving successful outcomes in both internal change initiatives and external contract projects.

Projects go through predictable cycles including 5 phases. Navigating these phases and knowing what to consider at every step is key to a project succeeding.

Still… according to KPMG, 30% of projects FAIL!

But why do Projects usually fail?

1. Lack of Experience by Project Managers
2. Lack of Proper Planning
3. Unclear Goals and Objectives
4. Improper Scope Definition
5. Lack of Follow-up & Monitoring
6. No Risk Management / Analysis
7. Unsupported Project Culture
8. Unrealistic Expectations

Participants will gain insights into various strategic tools and methodologies, including the RACI Matrix for clarifying roles and responsibilities, SWOT vs. SOAR for strategic planning, and Lean Six Sigma and Agile for process improvement. The course also covers the Kubler Ross Transitional Curve for managing change, Debono’s 6 Thinking Hats for creative problem-solving, and the Lewis Model for understanding cultural differences. Through practical applications of Eisenhower’s Matrix for prioritizing tasks and Appreciative Inquiry for fostering a positive organizational culture, participants will be equipped to lead their projects to success.

In this comprehensive course, participants will delve into the core aspects of project management, exploring the reasons projects often fail and how to mitigate these risks. They will learn about the Triple Constraint Theory, which balances scope, time, and cost, and the crucial role of the Project Manager in steering projects towards success. The course will emphasize the importance of Emotional Intelligence in project management, introducing Daniel Goleman’s 4 Quadrants of Emotional Intelligence and the 8 Behaviours of Emotionally Intelligent Leaders, which are critical for effective stakeholder management and team collaboration.

In this course Delegates will:

Learn The 8 Steps to Successful Strategic Project Management

• Practice The 5 Phases of Project Management – Initiation, Planning, Execution, Control/Monitoring and Closure / Sign Off
• Practice how to Define Project Scope, Agree Project Objectives and Metrics for Success – how to AVOID ‘Project Creep’
• Define the Role and Responsibilities of: The Project Sponsor, The Project Manager, Key Stakeholders, The Roles of individuals within the Project initiation Team
• Learn how to create an Emotionally Intelligent, High Performing SUPER, and Highly Functional, Team – equipped to deliver Project Success, “on time, in full – every time”
• Consider the dynamics and impacts of “People and Processes” within the Project
• Learn the fundamentals of Successful Change Management Principles
• Consider the impact of the Kubler Ross Transitional Change Curve on employees affected by the outcomes of the Project
• Learn how to Create a Shared Vision for all Project participants utilising “Begin with the End in Mind”, “The Disney Creative Strategy”, SOAR Visioning Techniques
• Learn how to use Control and Planning Tools such as: SWOT Analysis, Risk Assessments, the RACI Matrix, The Pestle Analysis
• Explore the impact of having agreement within the Project Team and with Stakeholders as to the “Urgent and Important” Tasks within the Shared Vision
• Will learn how to create a Project Dashboard containing the KPI’s of the Project; and will explore a variety of Software Options for Project Management Tracking
• Discover the impact of creating a Kan-Ban System within a Project
• Learn how to create Work Breakdown Structures and Project Management Processes
• Become familiar with Project Management Templates for: Project Scoping, Initiation, Project Planning, Project Execution, Project Tracking, Change Management, Risk/ Issue Management, Work Breakdown Structures,   
• Learn how to optimise Client / Stakeholder Engagement Relationship Management with Emotional Intelligence with planned Reviews
• Learn how to “Consider the Culture” of the Stakeholders and to understand the impact of Cultural Change Projects
• Learn the principles of LEAN Thinking, Six Sigma and Agile Project Management Methodologies – and know when to use each Technique
• Learn The Triple Constraint Theory of Project Management
• Practice The 8 Behaviours of Emotionally Intelligent People, Teams and Leaders in Experiential Learning Tasks
• Learn how to develop Creative Thinking with the Project Team and how to Create a Culture where Innovation Thrives
• Receive an award of a CPD Certificate in “Strategic Project Management”