Book: Essential Project Management Skills

(CRC Press: Boca Raton, FL) -- A new book published May 19 by CRC Press, Essential Project Management Skills, examines the trends affecting projects today using case studies from real projects. Author, Kerry R. Wills, an expert with a career of hands-on experience in project management, describes specific techniques and skills that project managers need to succeed in the current environment; and she includes a checklist of techniques and skills aligned to specific project scenarios. Tables and figures highlight key points.

In today’s business world, project managers not only have to be diligent in project planning and execution, but also need to have skills in persuasion, self management, communication, and relationship management. Reflecting the changing landscape of projects today, Essential Project Management Skills empowers project managers to master the skills necessary to succeed in the current environment.

Real case studies clarify concepts

Divided into four sections by chapter and enhanced with tables and diagrams, the book begins by introducing the concepts related to the changing project landscape and their effect on projects. Delving into the details of several trends within the project landscape, Wills describes the challenges created by these trends for project managers, and provides illuminating case studies that elucidate each trend and its effect. The trends include:
• Trend 1—Reduce Cost: outsourcing, shared services
• Trend 2—Increased Complexity: more technology layers, enterprise focus, third-party vendors
• Trend 3—Additional Rigor: demand management and governance, process and tools
• Trend 4—Changing Workforce: specialized resources, mobilized resources

Wills outlines the skills required to be successful in this new environment and the techniques to fully master them. Each of these skills is aligned with a case study in which the skills and techniques are used and the outcomes discussed.

Wills ties together the evolution of the project landscape, the challenges posed, and the new skills required to manage projects successfully in today’s environment. The book also provides a checklist of the skills and techniques in the context of different project scenarios.

About The Author

CRC Press

CRC Press is a premier global publisher of science, technology, and medical resources. It offers unique, trusted content by expert authors, spreading knowledge and promoting discovery worldwide. Its aim is to broaden thinking and advance understanding in the sciences, providing researchers, academics, professionals, and students with the tools they need to share ideas and realize their potential. CRC Press is a member of Taylor & Francis Group, an informa business.