Develop Project Management Plan

 

Summary of the "Develop Project Management Plan" Process

1. Definition:

   • The Develop Project Management Plan process creates a comprehensive document that integrates all subsidiary plans and baselines to define how the project will be executed, monitored, controlled, and closed.

2. Purpose:

   • To provide a centralized, approved "how-to" document for managing the project.
   • Ensures all team members and stakeholders understand the processes, baselines, and plans guiding the project.

3. Key Characteristics:

   • Integration Process:
     • Combines inputs from other planning processes into a single cohesive plan.
     • Example: Integrates scope, schedule, cost, and risk management plans.
   • Dynamic Collaboration:
     • Requires input from multiple stakeholders and project team members.
   • Approval-Required:
     • Typically approved by the project sponsor or change control board.

4. Inputs:

   • Project Charter:
     • Provides high-level objectives and scope.
   • Outputs from Other Planning Processes:
     • Inputs from subsidiary plans such as scope, schedule, and cost management plans.
   • Enterprise Environmental Factors (EEF):
     • Organizational culture, industry standards, or technology tools.
   • Organizational Process Assets (OPA):
     • Templates, guidelines, and lessons learned from previous projects.

5. Key Outputs:

   • Project Management Plan:
     • A formal document containing:
       • 14 Subsidiary Plans (e.g., scope, schedule, cost, risk, quality management plans).
       • 4 Baselines:
         • Scope Baseline: What work will be done.
         • Schedule Baseline: How long the project will take.
         • Cost Baseline: Budget for the project.
         • Performance Measurement Baseline: Integrates scope, schedule, and cost for performance tracking.

6. Key Tools and Techniques:

   • Expert Judgment:
     • Engaging experienced professionals to help create realistic and practical plans.
   • Data Gathering:
     • Brainstorming, interviews, and focus groups to collect inputs.
   • Interpersonal and Team Skills:
     • Facilitation to ensure effective collaboration and agreement.
   • Meetings:
     • Collaborative discussions to finalize plan components.

7. Practical Applications:

   • Construction:
     • Combines plans for managing contractors, timelines, and materials into a single document.
   • Software Development:
     • Integrates risk management, quality assurance, and communication strategies into one cohesive plan.
   • Event Planning:
     • Aligns schedules, budgets, and vendor management processes to ensure event success.

8. Importance:

   • Foundation for Success:
     • A well-crafted plan ensures clear communication, resource alignment, and effective execution.
   • Reference Document:
     • Provides guidance for resolving issues, addressing risks, and ensuring accountability.
   • Prevents Knowledge Gaps:
     • Removes reliance on unwritten or assumed processes by documenting everything formally.

9. Highlighted Points:

   • Baselines vs. Management Plans:
     • Baselines: Define "what" the project will achieve (e.g., scope, cost, schedule).
     • Management Plans: Define "how" the project will be managed (e.g., managing scope changes or budget adherence).
   • Continuous Reference:
     • The project management plan is a dynamic guide, consistently referenced throughout execution and monitoring.

10. Key Takeaway:

    • The Project Management Plan is the central document for project management. It provides a roadmap for the project’s success by integrating all planning processes and defining clear baselines and management strategies. "Plan comprehensively, execute confidently, and deliver effectively."