Project management duties

A project manager needs to perform many duties to ensure a project is successful. These duties focus on two main areas: running the project and managing the project team.

In his book Project Management Leadership, Rory Burke (2007) outlines various tasks a project manager may be required to perform. Here, you will read through the overview of Burke's description of project management duties. The table below is adapted from his work.

Management duty

Description

Select the project team

The project manager has a responsibility to identify the individuals involved in the project and oversee their work. The manager will train and develop the team's technical and managerial skills as required.

Establish the Project Management Office (PMO)

The project manager sets up the Project Management Office. This acts as a centre of excellence for all aspects of project management, and provides a conducive working environment.

Design the Project Management Information System

It is the project manager's responsibility to design the appropriate system to plan and control the project. This is called the Project Management Information System. They will also establish communication processes, procedures, report formats and administration.

Estimate and tender

The project manager is involved in making approximations of costings and developing pricing packages. This may include: developing a business plan, carrying out a feasibility study and developing a build-method.

Network

As part of their duties, the project manager is required to develop an extensive list of useful contacts.

Manage stakeholders

The project manager is involved in stakeholder management. This involves identifying the key individuals involved in the project, then analysing and managing their expectations.

Maintain client relationships

It is the project manager's responsibility to represent the company at client meetings and keep the client satisfied.

Manage correspondence

The project manager is expected to process all project related communications on behalf of the company.

The project manager typically reports to the Chief Executive Officer of an organisation and performs the tasks outlined.

Please refer to the glossary to check any terminology you are unfamiliar with: Glossary of Project Management Terms

Coming up...

In the next section you will test your understanding of the project manager's duties.