Fundamentals of Project Management offers a comprehensive introduction to the key principles and practices necessary to lead successful projects. You will learn how to navigate each phase of the project lifecycle, from initiation and planning to execution and closure. This course provides hands-on experience with essential tools like Work Breakdown Structures (WBS), scheduling, budgeting, and critical path analysis.
Fundamentals of Project Management
Fundamentals of Project Management
This course is part of Project Management and Planning Specialization
Instructors: Thomas Buchanan
Included with 
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level
Recommended experience
20 hours to complete
3 weeks at 6 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
What you'll learn
Understand key project management concepts and the role of a Project Manager in successful project execution.
Learn how to create a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) and write an effective Statement of Work (SOW).
Master project scheduling techniques, time estimation, and critical path analysis for efficient task management.
Develop budgeting skills, learn resource allocation, and apply project finance principles for managing contracts and costs.
Skills you'll gain
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Recently updated!
November 2024
Assessments
11 assignments
Taught in English
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This course is part of the Project Management and Planning Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
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There are 5 modules in this course
In this course, you'll gain a foundational understanding of project management, exploring the concepts, processes, and functions essential for successful project execution. You'll learn what it takes to manage a project from initiation to completion, including key skills needed to be an effective project manager. This course will set clear expectations for student performance, ensuring you are well-prepared to meet the demands of project management in any professional environment.
What's included
1 video3 readings
In this module, you'll gain a solid understanding of the fundamentals of project management, including key concepts, processes, and essential skills necessary for successful project execution.
What's included
2 videos3 readings2 assignments
In this module, you'll explore the critical role of the Project Manager (PjM) throughout each phase of a project. You'll examine the distinct characteristics, authority, and responsibilities that define a PjM. Additionally, the module will contrast the role of a project manager with that of a functional manager within a matrix organization. Emphasis will be placed on practical application through team-based exercises focused on the PickPOCIT scenario.
What's included
5 videos4 readings3 assignments
In this module, you'll focus on essential project planning techniques, including writing a Statement of Work (SOW) and applying hierarchical decomposition to project tasks. You'll learn to create and utilize various forms of a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), identify common pitfalls in WBS development, and apply best practices to prepare a comprehensive WBS for your project.
What's included
2 videos2 readings3 assignments
In this module, you'll learn how to schedule Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) elements, estimate time and budget, and perform critical path analysis. The module covers the preparation and analysis of project work schedules, budgeting processes, common pitfalls in budget estimation, and appropriate contract structures.
What's included
6 videos3 readings3 assignments1 plugin
Instructors
Offered by
Recommended if you're interested in Leadership and Management
Rice University
University of California, Irvine
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Frequently asked questions
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