Project Management is the process of leading the work of a team to achieve all project goals within the given constraints. Project Management involves proper planning of tasks, subtasks, timelines, and contingency plans in order to achieve all goals. The ability to communicate effectively, foster collaboration, and influence others are all valuable skills for Project Managers to posses. As the PM, I’m not only responsible for completing all assignments on time, but providing quality work that reflects my position and reputation. Being a successful PM validates my ability to lead effectively while also managing time, risk, and ambiguity.
Project Management encompasses all projects large or small, simple or complex. Being able to effectively plan, delegate, and flex has contributed to my overall success as a leader. Project Management taught me the value of contingency plans and to always plan for the unexpected. Living with ambiguity is natural and expected, so be as proactive as you can to minimize the effects of any obstacles. Understanding that PM's need strong communication skills to navigate with their clients and teams has taught me the value of timely feedback and the importance of deadlines.
Baseline Review & Updated Project Plan Project Management has always intrigued me and I've considered pursuing it as a career after graduation. I've always enjoyed planning, organizing, and hosting events, as well as, working in a team environment. I thrive in collaborative settings and enjoy leading the charge or delegating tasks. I even work best under pressure and prefer a fast paced environment. Before I took OGL 320 Project Management Foundations, I always hated ambiguity and got frustrated when things didn't go to plan. However, OGL 320 taught me the value of risk taking and a strong contingency plan! You can't always plan for the unexpected, but you can implement plan B or C to help minimize the impact.
Reflection I chose to include Project Management as a competency because it's a skill that requires organization, foresight, and consistency. As a leader, it's important that one be able to identify and analyze sociocultural factors that may promote or hinder management of people, procedures, or processes. Within our professional and educational careers, we're constantly delegating tasks, communicating with teams, and problem solving to feed future growth and success of our people and our businesses. All of these actions are components of Project Management. To that, I say Project Management is a valuable and necessary skill for all leaders to posses.
Since OGL 320, I've taken on some new projects at work and have enjoyed the challenge. I'm now involved in a development group called ADP and am the Co-Chair of the Women's Impact Network through Starbucks. Thanks to OGL 320 and the lessons learned, I've been better equipped to develop a project plan that not only meets but exceeds the needs of my partners, my SM peers, and top leaders in the company. I've created successful peer mentoring groups, as well as, coordinated multiple volunteer events through The Welcome Project and YWCA in Cincinnati. OGL 320 was challenging, but I'm SO thankful for the lessons learned.