Every project is unique in scale and complexity. However, each follows the same structure. A project plan is required to create this structure. It describes the project's various aspects, viz. activities, scope, costs, and schedule. Planning clarifies which activities and tasks will be executed, the resource requirement, etc. However, it is easier said than done. There are several elements of the project plan, and they are interlinked too.
1. Scope of project and deliverables
2. Activities and Tasks Scheduling
3. Costs and Budget Planning
4. Resource Planning
5. Communications
6. Risk Management
The project plan clarifies who will be in the team, which activities they will perform, and what cost will be incurred. How to manage all these elements? The answer is project management software.
What is Project Management Solution? It is a core business application for most project-based companies. Project managers use it extensively to manage various elements of project management lifecycle. A planning software allows them to monitor and track their plan as the execution takes place. Amongst various features, visualization of the project lifecycle, the progress, and reports used to communicate to relevant stakeholders are commonplace. Traditionally, such software were available as a standalone application. However, cloud-based end-to-end solutions are more effective and efficient. Norming PSA Cloud is a reliable, scalable, and affordable solution available on a subscription-basis.
Features That Matter The solution allows you to handle the various aspects seamlessly.
Initiating New Project Once the customer order comes into the sales contract systems, a project initiating request is created. It gives the estimates of cost and price. Using project management software , initiating a new project becomes a lot easy for the managers.
Resource Forecasting and Assignments It helps to identify who will be part of the team handling the project. You can identify which employees are available on a real-time basis. You can select the available employees who can be assigned project-related tasks. The assigned-percentage updates which resource is free to what extent. It also takes into account leaves when updating their availability.
Scheduling and Completion Updates If a project is not scheduled, it is least likely to be delivered on time. The project schedule ensures timely execution. A schedule is created by identifying each task required to reach the final deliverable and assigning every task a timeline. GANNT Chart is the most powerful tool used by project managers. The project scheduling module sets up the task schedule, displays the project task schedule, and assigns resources. You can view the updated percentage of completed tasks here.
Creating a Budget Estimate The budget of a project limits the resources that can be consumed on the project activities and tasks. However, costs can vary. This module handles such changes, and resource allocation can be done accordingly. It also provides real-time updates on the actual consumption of resources as compared to budget.
Creating a Work Breakdown Structure Project planning starts with WBS, and various project tasks are planned in the module. The resources are assigned to work (activities and tasks) using this module. It also allows to set-up a budget for the project along with costs of resource utilization.
Handling Multiple Projects When you have several projects to manage, the module makes it easy to view them all. You can view the different running projects and enquire about them. It provides a quick link to WBS, Team, and other modules. You can start, suspend, or mark it complete here.
Deliver Your Projects Effectively with Norming PSA Cloud! Using a cloud-based solution reduces complexity and costs. With the automation of the project-lifecycle, stakeholders can track contracts, projects and intervene appropriately. It brings transparency, efficiency, and effectiveness to project delivery. Try the industry-leading project management solution now.
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