implementing e-learning Core Good Practice Models

Project Management

One thing stands out in the analysis of all projects - few systems projects fail for technical reasons, and e-learning systems and tools are no exception to this. Most projects fail because they are not effectively managed. In short projects are about people. There is no magic formula for ensuring that a project is successful, but JISC infoNet's Project Management infoKit uses well-proven techniques that will increase your chances of success. The Kit is aimed at people who are managing a project for the first time and people with some experience of projects who recognise the need for a structured approach. It takes an approach that is based on the government-approved project management methodology - PRINCE2.

PRINCE2 is a comprehensive methodology that can be applied to projects no matter how large and complex. The JISC infoNet method pares down PRINCE2 to a framework suitable for managing any project, taking an education context and with particular emphasis on people. The method is scalable and is suitable for Further and Higher Education colleges and institutions of all sizes. Properly applied it should be a user-friendly framework that matches the size, risk level and complexity of your project.

The diagram below shows the main components of the JISC infoNet project management methodology. Some elements, namely Project Start-up and Project Closure, occur only once. The remaining elements, Planning, Managing and Controlling, form an iterative cycle that may repeat many times before the project is complete.

The methodology is a framework and nothing more. It is a tried and tested, structured approach that will give you a sound basis for running a successful project.

It is not, however, a substitute for creativity. Projects are always unique; they necessarily involve uncertainty and risk and they will require all your flexibility and ingenuity if they are to succeed.

That's what's exciting about managing a project!