Within PRINCE2 methodology, the project manager is responsible for ensuring that the project delivers its products within the constraints determined by the project board. These constraints are:
- Time
- Cost
- Quality
- Scope
Authorised to manage the project on a day-to-day basis, the project manager is also responsible for managing project risk and ensuring the project delivers products capable of achieving the benefits identified in the Business Case.
What competencies does a project manager need?
Each project is different, and requires a different set of project management skills. Therefore, a project manager must be adept across all the following technical and management skills, and develop them further with every project:
- Planning
- Time management
- People management
- Problem-solving
- Attention to detail
- Communication
- Negotiation
- Conflict management
Specific responsibilities of the project manager
The project manager holds a pivotal role in the PRINCE2 framework. The PM liaises with the project board, corporate management, external suppliers and account managers. He or she is responsible for managing information flows, establishing procedures, and monitoring and managing project risk.
The PM may also perform the roles of team manager and project support roles, if these roles are not appointed to others.
Listed as a summary, PM responsibilities are:
To prepare baseline management products in conjunction with Project Assurance, and then agree these with the board. These products are:
- Project brief
- Project product description
- Benefits review plan
- Project initiation documents
- Stage and exception plans
- Work packages
Prepare the following project reports:
- Highlight reports
- Issue reports
- End stage reports
- Lessons reports
- Exception reports
- End project reports
Maintain the following records:
- Issue register
- Risk register
- Daily log
- Lessons log
Lead and motivate the Project Management Team
Establish behavioral expectations of team members
Manage information flow between directing and delivering levels
Establish project procedures, including:
- Risk management
- Change control
- Configuration management
- Communication
Establish and manage project control functions – monitoring and reporting
Ensure that work is neither overlooked or duplicated
Manage external suppliers and account managers
Manage the Configuration Management Strategy through:
- Implementation
- Compliance
- Auditing to ensure products are consistent with configuration item records
- Initiating corrective actions
Authorise work packages
Advise the Project Board of deviations from the project plan
In summary, the project manager is responsible for the production of required products, managing project resources, initiating corrective actions, and managing the project team. The progress of the project rests squarely on the PM’s shoulders.
In our next blog, we’ll discuss the role of the team manager in PRINCE2 projects. Meanwhile, if you need advice or assistance with your project, please don’t hesitate to contact us:
