Project Manager at U: Organization and Time Management

 

Project Manager at University: Organization and Time Management

For some people Organization and Time Management is an ongoing part of the independent learning skills developed prior to starting working as project manager; for others, it can feel like a big step-up from previous experience in prior learning.

"Self-discipline is definitely key at university as it can be extremely easy to fall into the role of student bum!"

"You may have several deadlines in a short amount of time… [this] requires you to organize your time effectively."

"It is not your Sponsor or your SME's who will remind you of deadlines or collect work from you… It is your responsibility to meet the deadline because no-one will chase your work for you."

As a Project Manager It is a really good idea to use a wall-planner (or a reliable electronic equivalent) to be constantly aware of multiple deadlines and work out in advance which bits of which tasks will be done at what times. Other task- and time-management skills, such as prioritizing projects and being able to break scope and tasks down into manageable pieces, are equally important.

"I think the most important thing to remember is that although project deadlines seem far away at university, your time flies by, and you don’t want to expect your schedule to be open up and controlled the night before your project end date."

"…if you need help in your project, you have to seek it. Help will not come and find you." Escalate whatever is needed"

All comments are modified from Martin Hampton www.Port.AC.UC/ASK, 2015 to reflect project manager point of view.