The tailoring process in project management

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The tailoring process in project management involves customizing project management approaches and methodologies to suit the specific needs, characteristics, and constraints of a particular project. One key aspect of tailoring is recognizing that not all projects are the same, and a one-size-fits-all approach may not be suitable. Project managers must assess factors such as project size, complexity, industry, organizational culture, and stakeholder requirements to determine the most appropriate project management framework. Tailoring allows for flexibility in selecting and adapting project management processes, tools, and techniques to align with the unique circumstances of each project.

Tailoring also involves a continuous and iterative process throughout the project lifecycle. As the project evolves, project managers may need to reassess and adjust their approach based on changing circumstances, emerging risks, and evolving stakeholder expectations. This adaptability ensures that the project management methodology remains relevant and effective in addressing the dynamic nature of projects. The tailoring process empowers project managers to strike a balance between following established best practices and tailoring those practices to suit the specific nuances of their projects, ultimately increasing the likelihood of project success.

Morgan Todd Lewistown, PA

The principles of project management

The principles of project management serve as the guiding foundation for effective project execution. One fundamental principle is clarity in project objectives. Clearly defined and communicated objectives provide the project team with a shared understanding of what needs to be achieved. This principle emphasizes the importance of having SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) objectives that are aligned with the overall organizational strategy. With well-defined objectives, project managers and team members can focus their efforts on delivering tangible results, fostering a sense of purpose and direction.

Another crucial principle is stakeholder engagement and communication. Successful project management recognizes the significance of actively involving and communicating with stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle. Engaging stakeholders from the beginning helps in gathering valuable input, managing expectations, and building a collaborative environment. Effective communication ensures that project updates, changes, and challenges are transparently shared with all relevant parties. By prioritizing stakeholder engagement and communication, project managers can cultivate a positive project culture, reduce the risk of misunderstandings, and foster a sense of shared responsibility for project success. These principles, among others, lay the groundwork for efficient and successful project management practices across diverse industries.

Morgan Todd

Lewistown, PA 17044

Project Management eight performance domains

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The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, administered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), encompasses a comprehensive examination of project management competencies across eight performance domains. These domains serve as the foundation for evaluating a project manager's skills and knowledge. Initiating, the first domain, involves defining the project at a broad level and obtaining approval to move forward. This includes developing a project charter, identifying stakeholders, and conducting a high-level risk assessment. In the Planning domain, project managers delve into detailed project planning, covering aspects like scope definition, scheduling, cost estimation, risk management, and resource planning. This phase is crucial for establishing a roadmap that guides the project throughout its lifecycle.

Executing, the third domain, focuses on turning the project plan into action. Project managers must coordinate people and resources, manage stakeholder expectations, and ensure effective communication. Monitoring and Controlling, the fourth domain, involves tracking, reviewing, and regulating the progress and performance of the project. This domain encompasses processes like integrated change control, scope verification, and performance measurement, ensuring that the project stays on course and deviations are promptly addressed. The domains of Closing and Maturity, the last two, involve finalizing all project activities and ensuring a smooth transition to project closure, including obtaining formal acceptance of deliverables, releasing project resources, and conducting a post-project review for lessons learned. Each of these performance domains is integral to the PMP certification, collectively ensuring that certified professionals possess a well-rounded skill set to successfully manage projects across industries.

Morgan Todd

Lewistown, PA

A measurable outcome in project management

A measurable outcome in project management refers to a specific, quantifiable result or achievement that can be objectively assessed to determine the success or progress of a project. Measurable outcomes are often expressed as key performance indicators (KPIs) or key results within a goal-setting framework, such as Objectives and Key Results (OKRs). These outcomes provide a concrete and numeric way to gauge whether a project is meeting its objectives and staying on track.

For example, if a project objective is to "improve customer satisfaction," a measurable outcome could be stated as a key result: "Increase customer satisfaction survey scores by 15% within the next quarter." In this case, the measurable outcome is the percentage increase in customer satisfaction scores, providing a clear benchmark for success.

Measurable outcomes serve several purposes in project management:

Clarity: They provide clear and specific criteria for success, leaving little room for ambiguity or interpretation.

Accountability: Measurable outcomes establish accountability by providing a basis for tracking and evaluating individual and team performance.

Decision-Making: Project managers can use measurable outcomes to make informed decisions about project adjustments, resource allocation, and strategy.

Communication: Clear and measurable outcomes facilitate effective communication with stakeholders, as progress can be communicated in a transparent and understandable manner.

Ultimately, measurable outcomes contribute to the overall effectiveness and success of a project by offering a quantifiable way to assess and demonstrate progress toward project goals.

Morgan Todd

Lewistown, PA 17044

https://www.linkedin.com/in/wiredwizard/

Project Management Objectives and Key Results

OKRs, or Objectives and Key Results, are a goal-setting framework that originated in the business world and is widely used in project management to align teams and individuals with overarching organizational goals. The OKR framework typically consists of two main components:

Objectives: These are clear and ambitious goals that articulate what an organization or team wants to achieve. Objectives are qualitative and provide direction, helping to set a clear vision for what success looks like.

Key Results: Key Results are specific, measurable outcomes that indicate whether the objective has been achieved. They serve as quantifiable milestones or performance indicators that provide a tangible way to assess progress toward the objectives.

OKRs are designed to be transparent and collaborative, encouraging regular check-ins and updates to track progress. They promote a results-oriented approach by focusing on outcomes rather than just outputs. OKRs are typically set at multiple levels within an organization, cascading from high-level corporate objectives down to team and individual levels, ensuring alignment across all levels of the organization.

In project management, OKRs can be applied to set goals for specific projects, ensuring that project teams are aligned with the broader strategic objectives of the organization. By clearly defining objectives and their measurable key results, project managers can enhance focus, accountability, and the overall success of the project. The iterative nature of OKRs also allows for regular reassessment and adjustment as needed to adapt to changing circumstances or priorities.

Morgan Todd

Lewistown, PA 17044

https://www.linkedin.com/in/wiredwizard/

Project Management Keeping teams active

Keeping teams active and engaged in project management is crucial for achieving project success. Firstly, fostering a collaborative and inclusive team culture is essential. Encouraging open communication, valuing diverse perspectives, and creating an environment where team members feel heard and appreciated can significantly boost motivation. Regular team meetings, both in-person and virtual, provide opportunities for collaboration, brainstorming, and sharing progress. Effective team leaders recognize the strengths of individual team members and leverage them to enhance overall team performance. By cultivating a positive and supportive team culture, project managers can maintain team enthusiasm and commitment to project goals.

Secondly, establishing clear roles and responsibilities is vital for keeping teams active and accountable. When team members understand their specific contributions and how they fit into the larger project framework, they are more likely to stay engaged and take ownership of their tasks. Clearly defined roles also help prevent confusion and minimize the risk of duplication or oversight. Regularly revisiting and adjusting roles as needed throughout the project lifecycle ensures that the team structure remains aligned with project requirements and evolving priorities.

Lastly, leveraging technology and project management tools can enhance team collaboration and productivity. Platforms for task management, communication, and document sharing streamline processes and facilitate real-time collaboration, especially in a remote or distributed team environment. Additionally, implementing project management methodologies, such as Agile or Scrum, can provide a structured framework for iterative development, constant feedback, and continuous improvement, which can contribute to a more dynamic and engaged team. By embracing these strategies, project managers can create an environment that not only keeps teams active but also promotes innovation and high-performance outcomes.

Morgan Todd

Lewistown, PA 17044

https://www.linkedin.com/in/wiredwizard/

Project management fundamentals

Project management fundamentals are the essential principles and practices that form the backbone of successful project execution. At its core, project management involves initiating, planning, executing, monitoring, and closing a project to achieve specific goals within defined constraints. One of the key fundamentals is the establishment of clear project objectives and scope, outlining the desired outcomes and boundaries to guide the entire project team. This foundational step helps prevent scope creep and ensures that the project stays on track.

Effective communication is another critical aspect of project management fundamentals. Clear and consistent communication among team members, stakeholders, and other relevant parties is essential for understanding expectations, addressing issues, and fostering collaboration. Establishing a communication plan that outlines the channels, frequency, and methods of communication helps mitigate misunderstandings and keeps everyone informed and aligned throughout the project lifecycle.

Additionally, risk management is a fundamental concept in project management. Identifying potential risks, assessing their impact and likelihood, and developing strategies to mitigate or respond to them are crucial steps in ensuring project success. Proactively addressing risks helps project managers and teams anticipate challenges, make informed decisions, and maintain control over project variables. By incorporating these and other fundamental principles, project managers can enhance their ability to deliver projects on time, within budget, and in accordance with stakeholder expectations.

SMART goals in project management

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SMART goals in project management are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timely. 

SMART goals can help ensure that objectives are attainable within a certain time frame. 

Here are some tips for setting SMART goals: 

• Measurable: The goal should be quantifiable, or at least allow for measurable progress.
• Attainable: The goal should be realistic, based on available resources and existing constraints.
• Relevant: The goal should align with other business objectives.
• Time-bound: The goal must have a deadline.

Some other project management goals include: 

Improving communication and collaboration

Increasing productivity

Morgan Todd

Lewistown, PA 17044

https://www.linkedin.com/in/wiredwizard/

Morgan Todd Resume

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Morgan Todd

Lewistown, PA 17044

(814) 283-5887

mtodd@wiredwizard.net

http://linkedin.com/in/wiredwizard

 

Summary

Experienced Information Technology Manager with a strong knowledge of technical guidance, IT best practices, security protocols, team leadership, and analyzing business requirements.

I have a proven track record of leading IT teams through all aspects of the IT Department including, help desk, cyber security, network infrastructure, and IT Project Management.

I am constantly investing in keeping up to date with all aspect of ever-changing IT Environments as well as acquiring additional soft skills to effectively lead my team.

I offer a blend of high-level IT related skills and overall leadership experience to exceed above expectations for any IT role.

Please review my work experience and contact my references listed below.

 

Experience

Corporate Head of Information Technology

Marcal Paper Nov 2017 - Current

Coordinating all technology project budgets, installations, upgrades, and maintenance with other departments and stakeholders.

Design, manage, and implement organizational IT best practices, strategies, security and projects.

Manage IT departments across 10 locations in PA, NJ, NC, MS, NV, TN and VT.

Manage, train, and staff IT Employees for help desk, network, and cyber security teams.

Manage and direct the corporate cyber security policy, IT compliance strategies, network design, support desk, ERP Systems, database systems, hybrid AD systems and IT budgets.

 

Advanced Technical Applications Developer

Nsite LLC Jan 2014 - Mar 2018

Major Projects included:

United States Joint Chiefs of Staff “JLLIS Platform”

United States Department of Justice "UNICOR Platform"

United States Department of Defense Crane "Counterfeit" Project

 

Advanced Technical Applications Developer

Quantum Edge Technology May 2015 - Jun 2017

Develop and modify the Edge Transportation Management System using ColdFusion, SQL and jQuery.

 

Education

Center For Media Arts, NY 1991 – 1994

Bachelors, Communication & Fine Arts

 

US Army 1988 - 1991

101st Airborne Ft Campbell, KY

Honorably Discharged Desert Storm Vet

 

Skills

Procurement • Analytical Skills • Vendor Management • Security Compliance • Budgeting • Team Management • Project Leadership • SQL • Oracle • ERP Systems •Project Management

 

PMP Training

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PMP Training 

Morgan Todd

Lewistown, PA 17044


Since 2004 PMTraining has provided students with professional methods to prep for the PMP exam.

This is an awesome training program to prep you for your certification.

PMTraining is an authorized training partner of the Project Management Institute