To manage a project effectively, project managers must be familiar with the technologies they will use. Although they don’t need to be experts, they should have enough knowledge to build a strong team.

Solid IT skills are essential for an IT project manager because it’s easier for them to lead the team effectively with a background in IT. In larger firms, project managers need more than just IT knowledge. They also need strong management skills to lead the team and meet the sponsor’s and stakeholder’s expectations. So, they must know how to manage and lead a team effectively.

The following skills are essential for IT project managers

What does a great IT project manager look like? Let’s find out

• Leadership Skills
• Technical IT skills
• knowledge of Basic Project Management methodologies
• Adaptability to uncertain fluctuations
• Effective Communicator
• Risk mitigation
• Resource allocation
• Time Management

Remember, these are just a few basic skills, and IT project management encompasses many responsibilities. IT project managers need to be constantly learning new skills, flexible, and up to date with the latest technological developments to succeed in their positions.

Characteristics of Effective & Ineffective Project Managers

“Get the right people. Then, no matter what else you might do wrong after that, the people will save you. That’s what management is all about.”  Tom DeMarco

Read the full article: A Leadership Profile of American Project Managers.

Functions performed as a Project Manager

Below are fifteen (15) functions a project manager needs to perform during a project.

• Define the project’s scope
• Determine the decision-makers, stakeholders, and escalation process.
• Create a thorough task list. 
• Determine the necessary time.
• Create a basic project management flowchart.
• Determine the required resources and budget.
• Analyse the demands of the project.
• Determine and assess the risks.
• Create a backup plan.
• Recognise any interdependencies.
• Determine and keep track of important dates
• Take part in the project phase evaluation.
• Get the resources you need.
• Control the change management process.
• Project status report

The Triple Constraint: Challenge for Project Managers

Since 1995, the success rate of IT projects has increased by more than twice, but only about one-third achieve their scope, time, and cost objectives.

There are various reasons for project failures, but every project is limited in multiple ways, primarily by its scope, time, and cost objectives. In project management, these restrictions are called the “triple constraint.”

To achieve the desired project outcomes, a project manager must carefully consider and balance the scope, time, and cost factors. Here’s what each of these aspects entails:

Scope: Work that will be done and what the customer expects.

Time: How long will it take?

Cost: Budget to finish the project?

By effectively managing these three elements, project managers can enhance their chances of achieving project success.

These certifications will help you become a better project manager

A degree or certificate is a great way to excel as a project manager. Project managers are in high demand, fortunately. Below, you will find some excellent resources that will assist you in growing as a project manager.

1. PMP Certification
2. PRINCE2 Certifications
3. Google Course
4. Agile Certifications
5. Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
6. Purdue University’s Online Project Management Series
7. Scrum certifications

Closing Notes

Unfortunately, not all project managers prioritise developing their soft skills; instead, they focus more on technical aspects. To maintain a competitive edge in project management, being familiar with the skills listed here is crucial, as employers highly seek them. 

You can confidently take on any project management position that may arise by honing these skills. The field of project management is expanding rapidly, as projected by the Project Management Institute, with an estimated 2.3 million new project-oriented jobs expected each year until 2030.

For valuable insights and resources on becoming a project manager, visit our website, Markup Camp. Markup Camp supports you whether you’re just beginning or an expert.