Dan Hicks’ Post

Resource Management Note: In this section, I share insights derived from academic studies and practical experiences in project management. These ideas are rooted in established methodologies and enriched by real-world applications, providing a balanced perspective on effective project management practices. To effectively manage the project/s, the project manager needs to be aware of the processes and procedures associated with resource management. Resource management involves regulations and processes that affect hiring and firing, labor relations, career path management, and how to work with people on good terms. The project manager should learn what specific requirements the organization has for: 1.     Recruiting. 2.     Interviewing. 3.     Selection processes. 4.     Hiring Processes. 5.     Separation processes: resignations, terminations, and layoffs. 6.     Labor relations processes: contract terms, grievance procedures. 7.     Compensation available. 8.     Career paths and training available in the organizations. 9.     Regulatory requirements for your state (province) and area. A key aspect of resource management is ensuring that adequate resources are available during all the phases of the project/s and maintenance (if it is stated in the contract) after that. This includes securing individuals with the necessary technical expertise and other relevant skills. When resource gaps are identified, it is essential and normal for the project manager to request additional resources to meet project obligations. Failure to address these resource needs can result in the organization falling short of its commitments, leading to client dissatisfaction and potential business loss. Therefore, a proactive approach to resource management is vital for maintaining client trust and ensuring the long-term success of both the project and the organization. Disclosure: While I typically avoid using the term "resources" to describe the team I work with, I am using it here solely for clarity and understanding. Thank you. #projectmanagement #management #bestadvice

InfoTech Resources' Project Management solutions are here to help. We specialize in maximizing your ROI by ensuring projects stay on track, on budget, and deliver results. Let us help you overcome challenges and achieve success! Tags:  #innovation #digitalmarketing #culture #hiring #staffing #ITresources

When it comes to managing IT projects, you need the right talent and expertise at your fingertips. That's where outstaffing shines! Let's explore how outstaffing can be your secret weapon for project success. 💻 1️⃣ Expert Project Managers: Access experienced project managers with domain-specific knowledge. 2️⃣ Flexible Scalability: Scale your project team up or down as needed, without long-term commitments. 3️⃣ Cost-Efficiency: Pay for talent only when you need it, optimizing your project budget. 4️⃣ Global Talent Pool: Tap into a diverse talent pool, accessing a wide range of skill sets. At Talent First, we specialize in connecting you with top-tier IT project managers who can drive your projects to success. Ready to elevate your project management game? Reach out today, and let's make it happen together! #ITRecruitment #TechTalent #HiringTech #ITStaffing #ITOperations

Are you hiring for #projectmanagement roles? Our experts reveal the top skills and roles you should be looking for to boost your Projects and Change teams💡 . Read our latest article here👉 - https://lnkd.in/excv5TEm #RecruitmentTips #Managementadvice

Project Management Institute survey's reflects what the U.S. Bureau Labor of Statistics predicts too: "Employment of project management specialists is projected to grow 6 percent from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations." 🚀 💡 Considering becoming a project manager? Here's a good place to start your research: https://lnkd.in/eakPZTG7 #PMLife #ProjectManagement #PMIndustry

#Staffingaprojectorganization is indeed a complex task, and crucial for ensuring the right team composition and project success. Here’s a summary of the key points and considerations #Whatpeopleresourcesarerequired? Determine the job descriptions and number of individuals needed for each role. Consider the timing of when each person will be needed throughout the project. Assess the cost, availability, skill level, training needs, and past experience with potential team members. #Wherewillthepeoplecomefrom? Decide whether to staff from within the organization or to seek external hires or consultants. Use a resource management plan to streamline the staffing process. Evaluate the availability and suitability of internal resources versus the need for specialized skills from outside. #Whattypeofprojectorganizationalstructurewillbebest? Choose between structures like a virtual team, matrix, product, or staff project management structure based on the project’s objectives and resource availability. The structure should facilitate effective communication, resource allocation, and project control. Regarding the situation with the line manager, the importance of continuity versus having the best resources varies based on the project’s needs and the manager’s preferences. Continuity can lead to a more stable team dynamic, while having the best resources might optimize performance but could disrupt team cohesion. Mutual trust between project and line managers, as well as among project managers, is essential. It ensures that staffing decisions are made in the best interest of the project and the company. Finally, when resources are defined, and it’s time to select the project manager and team, consider: Ensuring all assignments align with policies on rank, salary, and promotion. Selecting individuals who can work well with both the project manager and upper-level management. Choosing team members with good relationships with functional personnel and self-discipline. Staffing conflicts are resolved through negotiations, with upper-level management setting the ground rules and priorities. The goal is to maintain the best possible mix of individuals from available resources. In cases where workers are underperforming, it’s necessary to address issues such as nonacceptance of rules or incompetence. Solutions may involve reassignment, additional training, or termination from the project.

I am always surprised when I hear organisations say "we only use Project Managers on our panel". Does the effort of sourcing a PM who's skills and intrinsic talents perfectly match your project (including the 'big ones') outweigh the benefits you'll realise by hiring them? I wouldn't have thought so. So why restrict yourself to a locked-in panel? This is the definition of doing things the way they've always been done and expecting an different result. Don't get me wrong, panels can be highly efficient and an optimal way to have PMs on the bench ready to launch when you hit the big green project button. But why fly on autopilot when you could fly like Maverick (yes, that was a Top Gun reference for those playing at home). Curious about how to find some fresh PM talent? Our mighty team of passionate project professionals could be just the secret weapon you're looking for. Click that shiny 'book an appointment' button to connect with me. Think other people should know about the power of brining in fresh PM talent? Why not share this post! #projectmanagement #ictprojects #digitaltransformation #brisbanebusiness #sydneybusiness #melbournebusiness #adelaidebusiness #Brisbane #projectdelivery

This post is not based on any formal study, it's just my opinion. I work in an external workforce "Rich" organization. Major projects get external PM's. Technical skills are 90% outsourced. Same goes for the ongoing tasks such as end user support. While external consultants can inject fresh perspectives into project management, it's crucial to consider the impact on middle management and employees. Over-reliance on consultants may inadvertently undermine the value of internal knowledge and erode the confidence of full-time staff. I see this all the time. External employees take a lot of time to acquire the knowledge they need to actually do what they were hired for, and often they do that on the expense of the company's ability to meet it's goals and deadlines. When using external technical resources the company can easily ramp up the delivery team for big projects which is a Hugh advantage. But when it takes 2-3 weeks to secure one resource for a small project, it become a liability. Furthermore, the number of projects lead by internal PM's is decreasing. Even when involved you can feel the diminishing sense of accountability of the employees when an external PM is involved. It's essential for organizations to strike a balance, ensuring that the expertise of external consultants complements the skills of existing teams, rather than replacing them. This approach not only preserves the morale of employees but also safeguards the organization's internal capabilities for sustainable growth. What's your take on this? #Leadership #Management #EmployeeEngagement

In my last post, I highlighted two crucial reasons for hiring a Project Manager. Today, I'm excited to share more insights with you. Top Reasons to Hire a Project Manager #3: Enhance Customer Experience By automating repetitive, manual tasks, your team can redirect their focus toward your customers.  This shift not only strengthens existing client relationships but also frees up time for your team to tackle strategic initiatives that drive your business forward. #4: Boost Scalability Implementing business automations makes your company more scalable.  With efficient systems in place, you can expand your business without the need to hire additional staff.  These systems operate around the clock, handling workloads far beyond human capacity.  This continuous operation improves scalability and maintains better margins, allowing revenue growth without proportional cost increases. #5: Improve Employee Experience Manual, repetitive tasks can drain employee morale and productivity.  By automating these processes, your team can concentrate on high-impact, strategic tasks.  This not only enhances employee satisfaction but also maximizes their contribution to the business, leading to greater overall success. These enhancements demonstrate how effective project management and automation can revolutionize your business operations. Stay tuned for more insights, and feel free to reach out if you have any questions! Looking forward to your thoughts and comments. #ProjectManagement #Automation #BusinessGrowth #CustomerExperience #Scalability #WorkflowOptimization #StrategicPlanning #Efficiency #Productivity #ManagementTips #TeamEfficiency #Innovation #BusinessAutomation #KPI #Mondaydotcom

Are you a hiring manager looking to streamline your technology projects during the busy season? Consider utilizing one of our Project Management Consultants to keep things on track and ensure successful integrations and implementations! Here's why: ⭐ Expertise on Demand: Project Manager Consultants bring specialized skills and experience to the table. Whether it's handling complex integrations or managing large-scale implementations, they have the expertise to navigate challenges efficiently. ⭐Flexibility: During peak periods, workload fluctuations are common. Hiring Project Manager Consultants allows you to scale your team up or down as needed, ensuring you have the right resources to meet project demands without the overhead of full-time hires. ⭐Cost-Effectiveness: Opting for consultants can be more cost-effective than hiring full-time staff, especially for short-term projects or during seasonal spikes in workload. You pay for the expertise and time you need, without the long-term commitment. ⭐Efficiency and Accountability: Project Manager Consultants are accustomed to hitting the ground running. They bring a fresh perspective and a focus on results, driving efficiency and accountability within your project team. ⭐Risk Mitigation: Complex technology projects often come with inherent risks. By engaging seasoned Project Manager Consultants, you reduce the risk of project delays, budget overruns, and technical glitches, as they are adept at identifying and mitigating risks proactively. ⭐Resource Optimization: internal team can stay focused on their core responsibilities without getting bogged down by project management tasks. This ensures optimal resource allocation and productivity across the board. ⭐Knowledge Transfer: Working alongside Project Manager Consultants provides an opportunity for knowledge transfer. Your internal team can learn best practices, new methodologies, and valuable insights from seasoned professionals, enriching their skill set for future endeavors. #ProjectManagement #Technology #Consulting #Efficiency #BusinessStrategy #erpimplementation #busyseason