Ronald Kister knows the complexities, and the challenges, often
involved in project management, having provided oversight and leadership of
numerous team-oriented projects throughout his professional career. The former
Levittown Public Schools Director of Technology and Library Media Services,
Kister is well-versed in not only defining project goals and setting team
expectations, but also in preparing those involved with the information and
tools needed to see a complex project through to successful completion.
As Ronald Kister knows, every project, regardless of the size or
scope, entails a certain number of phases. Each step, when followed and
executed correctly, provides the platform needed for moving forward and onto
the next.
Conception
Each project begins with its conception, as well as the analysis
needed to determine its benefits/cost to the organization and the time it will
take to reach completion.
Outline and Planning
Next comes the outline and definition phase, where the plan is
constructed, a budget is calculated, a schedule outlined and resources
determined.
Initiation and Execution
At this point in the project, tasks and resources are assigned
accordingly. Responsibilities are defined and team members begin execution of
the project.
Quality Control and Performance Evaluation
Those responsible for management of the project must work to
ensure it is in concert with the schedule and budget. In other words, project
managers must compare and contrast the progress of the project with the initial
plan, and to make adjustments whenever necessary.
Close and Evaluation
The final phase of any project is its completion, followed
shortly thereafter with an evaluation to determine its ultimate success,
efficiency, etc.