You are a project manager for a large hospitality firm (for example, Marriott International) who will be in charge of the firm's HQ office relocation. You have been asked to speak to the HR staff about the move, as many of them have very little understanding of project management. Also, they are fearful that this project will end up being a failure because other projects have failed at the firm. Explain to them the key elements of project management and its relationship to human resources management (HRM). Be sure that your explanation curtails their fears of project management.
Human Resource Management
Full Answer Section
- Project closure: This involves completing the project, delivering the product or service to the customer, and closing out the project formally.
Relationship between project management and human resources management (HRM)
HRM is the process of managing people in organizations to achieve the organization's goals. It involves a variety of activities, such as recruiting, hiring, training, developing, and compensating employees.
Project management and HRM are closely related. Project managers need to have a good understanding of HRM principles and practices in order to effectively manage their teams. HRM can also support project management by providing the necessary resources and support to project teams.
How to curtail fears of project management
Many people are fearful of project management because they have seen other projects fail. However, there are a number of things that project managers can do to reduce the risk of project failure.
Some of the most important things that project managers can do to reduce the risk of project failure include:
- Clearly define the project scope. This will help to ensure that everyone involved in the project understands what is expected of them.
- Develop a realistic project plan. The project plan should be based on sound estimates of time, cost, and resources.
- Regularly communicate with the project team and stakeholders. This will help to keep everyone informed of the project's progress and to identify and address any potential problems early on.
- Be flexible and adaptable. Things don't always go according to plan, so project managers need to be able to adapt their approach as needed.
Conclusion
Project management is a systematic approach to planning, executing, monitoring, controlling, and closing out a project with the specific objective of meeting the project requirements on time and within budget. It is closely related to human resources management, as project managers need to have a good understanding of HRM principles and practices in order to effectively manage their teams.
There are a number of things that project managers can do to reduce the risk of project failure, such as clearly defining the project scope, developing a realistic project plan, regularly communicating with the project team and stakeholders, and being flexible and adaptable.
By following these guidelines, project managers can increase their chances of success and reduce the fears of those who are unfamiliar with project management.
Additional notes for the HR staff
I understand that you may have some concerns about the upcoming office relocation project. However, I want to assure you that project management is a proven process that can be used to successfully complete complex projects.
As the project manager for this project, I am committed to keeping you informed of the project's progress and to addressing any concerns that you may have. I will also be working closely with the HR department to ensure that the project is staffed and resourced appropriately.
I believe that this project is a great opportunity for us to improve our workplace and to create a more efficient and productive environment for everyone. I am confident that we can successfully complete this project together.
Sample Answer
Project management is the application of knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques to project activities to meet the project requirements. It is a systematic approach to planning, executing, monitoring, controlling, and closing out a project with the specific objective of meeting the project requirements on time and within budget.
The key elements of project management include:
- Project planning: This involves defining the project scope, goals, and objectives, as well as developing a plan to achieve them.
- Project execution: This involves carrying out the project plan and making adjustments as needed.
- Project monitoring and control: This involves