The Project Itself...

“What obstacles do project managers face to successful completion of an Information Technology project?”

IT executive: International commercial firm

The project itself.......

MüTō Observation:

This is funny. But not far from where most Project Managers stand. I have heard a lot along these lines whenever Project Managers say things like "This project is screwed up." or "We don't have enough money." or, "The sponsors are crazy." etc.

Its funny to them, until they realize its their responsibility to communicate, motivate, and hold the project parties accountable for their specific areas of success.

Requirements Requirements Requirements

“What obstacles do project managers face to successful completion of an Information Technology project?”

Director, Information Technology (IT)

Requirements, Requirements, Requirements,.... budget
tendancy of business to use "Hope as a management strategy"

MüTō Observation:

Project Managers throughout experience the same obstacles. Not only do we all experience the same obstacles, but they are all mitigate able, on every project, every time, and it isn’t the certification, or the process that will ensure it. (although those are EXTREMELY helpful.)

When they tell me about Requirements, and Budget, I tell them its the PM's responsibility to make certain that requirements are clearly communicated, and mutually understood by BOTH the sponsors, the beneficiaries, and the suppliers.

When they talk to me about budget, I make sure the PM's understand that the budget is THEIRS, and that the prjoect requires that they be truthful to it. The suppliers MUST be held accountable to its estimation, and its use. And the Sponsor must be available to review requirements to extend it! (albeit, if the PM's doing his job, this would already be handled.)