Tasks of a project manager in project management

A project manager plays a central role in the success of a project. You are not just a planner but also a leader and coordinator. Your goal is to ensure that the project objectives are met, the timeline is adhered to, and the budget remains within limits. In this guide, you will learn what a project manager specifically does and which tasks you need to take on to successfully manage your project.

Key insights

• The project manager is responsible for creating and monitoring the project plan.
• They must assemble an effective team and assign tasks sensibly.
• A good project manager keeps leadership and administration in focus.
• Documenting the progress of the project is a central responsibility.

Step-by-step guide

1. Creation of the project plan

The first and perhaps most important task of a project manager is to create the project plan. You must clearly define the objectives and create a timeline that takes all important milestones into account. This is the foundation for the entire project process. Here, it is important that not only you but also your team is involved in this process to consider all relevant perspectives.

2. Assembling the project team

The right selection and composition of your team is crucial for project success. You need to understand the skills of each team member and know who can perform which task best. You may already be part of an existing team, or you may need to form a new team yourself. In either case, it is beneficial to know the strengths and weaknesses of each individual.

3. Assignment of tasks

Once you have assembled your team, the next important task follows: the assignment of specific tasks. You must ensure that the tasks are distributed appropriately and that the right people take on the responsibility. For example, if you assign someone to sell the product, you should ensure that this person has the necessary sales skills.

4. Leading the team

As a project manager, you are not only responsible for planning but also for leading. You must guide your team and be available for questions. It is important that you keep track of everything and stay informed, as you are the central point of contact when it comes to solving problems or making decisions that could affect the project process.

5. Managing budget and timeline

Another central aspect of your role is managing the budget and timeline. You must use the financial resources available to you efficiently and ensure that the project stays within the budget. If you find that additional resources are needed, you are responsible for obtaining the necessary approvals.

6. Handover of the project

Once the project is completed, it is up to you to present and hand over the results. You can decide whether to present yourself or have someone else from your team do it. During the handover, it is important that all requirements are met and the client is satisfied.

7. Documenting the project progress

Documentation is an essential part of project management. At every step of the project, you should record what happened, what decisions were made, and what progress was achieved. This not only helps you keep track but is also important for evaluating the project to learn from experiences.

Summary – Project Management: The Tasks of a Project Manager in Detail

A project manager has many responsibilities. They create the project plan, assemble the team, assign tasks, lead the team, manage budget and time, hand over the project, and document the progress.