The pre-project project management role

One of the most effective ways to ensure that projects achieve the outcomes stakeholders expect is to use proven project management techniques when planning projects. This article examines pre-project planning for large projects. In doing so, it lists two reasons for integrating planning into pre-project activities and describes the significance of using a project implementation plan (PIP) to ensure that the deliverable coincides with the owner's objectives and expectations; It also explains a process for implementing this plan, a process based on the owner's pre-project activities; it identifies five ways that project managers can use the information generated from PIP. It then details seven factors that project managers must integrate into PIP, factors that include: scope definition, schedule, budget, control philosophy, organizational structure, information systems, and mobilization plans. It also details the elements, tools, and activities necessary for implementing each of these factors. It concludes by listing the three requirements needed to successfully implement PIP.