Manage the Future: Digital decision-making for non-technical project managers
Due for completion: September 2007
Due for publication: early 2008
SUMMARY
There is an increasing expectation that project managers outside of the technology field will consider and understand technology as a core element of their project needs. This text aims to provide an understanding of technologies currently employed within a range of business settings. Strategies are provided for integrating technology in a considered and fluid way, as well as specific project issues for non-technical managers including dealing with difficult IT staff, commissioning quotes on technology elements, and bringing in digital projects under budget.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION: Understanding your project's technology needs
CHAPTER ONE: Project Management and Technology
1.1 An Overview
1.2 Planning Concepts Through Technology
1.3
Rethinking the Role of Technology in Every Project
1.4 How to Manage Technology-Driven Projects
1.5 What Role Choice Plays in Technical Decision-Making
1.6 Project Management Software: Smarter Planning
CHAPTER TWO: Leading Technology Teams
2.1 Creating a Single Vision
2.2 Managing Information Technology Team Members
2.3 Interaction with External Vendors
2.4 Developing Project-led Outcomes
CHAPTER THREE: Communications
3.1 The Internet
3.2 Websites and Public Forums
3.3 The Latest Interactive and Responsive Technologies
3.4 Email, Phone and Direct-Marketing Technologies
3.5 e-Commerce and other Customer Interactive Devices
CHAPTER FOUR: Packaged and Promotional Material
4.1 The New Print Revolution
4.2 Print Software and Hardware
4.3 Commissioning Promotional Material
4.4 DVDs, CDs, and other Interactive Devices
CHAPTER FIVE: Events and Presentations
5.1 Building an Event
5.2 Presentation Software and Technology
5.3 Staffing Events
5.4 Budgeting and Contingency Planning
CHAPTER SIX: Internal Delivery Systems
6.1 Private or Company Networks
6.2 Internal Communication Processes
6.3 Using Technology within a Large or Multi-location Organization
6.4 Considering Software
CHAPTER SEVEN: Budgeting Technology
7.1 Creating a Budget for the Technology Component of a Project
7.2 Evaluating the Costs and Cost-Benefit of technology tools
7.3 Staff Resourcing
7.4 Contingency Budgeting and Managing Overcosts
CHAPTER EIGHT: Tracking Your Project
8.1 How to Perform an Effective Technology Audit
8.2 What Happens if the Technology Fails?
8.3 Providing Feedback to IT staff
8.4 Project Completion and Reporting