The All-Important PMP

Whether you’re managing one small project or multiple large projects, you want to serve your client(s) with efficiency and proof of solid, consistent performance. The best way to set this up is to develop a Project Management Plan (PMP).

A PMP is essentially the work plan for a project, without all of the contractual legalese. It’s a living document, as a project moves forward, describing the how, who, and when for each step. If managing multiple projects for a single client, identify all aspects that are common to that client, then define how they should be tackled. As an example, consider invoices: your Project Management Plan should describe what needs to be included on each invoice, and there should be a sample format. This simple instruction can save a huge amount of wasted effort, aggravation, and client dissatisfaction. Other elements of a Project Management Plan include:

• Goals & objectives

• Project approach (general scope and accountability)

• Team organization & responsibilities

• Risk management

• Quality control / quality assurance process

• Master/task order contract

• Change management process

• Communication plan


Thoughtfully creating a PMP you can stick with will provide the deep understanding and common ground you need to command your project’s direction and ultimate success.

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