Project Management in Tech Development

What actually is an IT Project Manager? Ask five tech leaders and you’ll get five different answers. And they’ll all be right…partly. PMI says an IT Project Manager is a knowledge expert - someone who applies processes, tools, and techniques to deliver across any type of project. PRINCE2 defines it as a governance role; managing within defined roles, responsibilities, and tolerances. IPMA and APM see it as competence driven; success measured not by checklists, but by the ability to lead, adapt, and deliver. And Six Sigma sees it as a technical specialist; using data and process improvement to reduce errors and increase efficiency. Different philosophies. Different lenses. But here’s what they all agree on: ✅ Leadership and Team Management - guiding people through change, not just managing tasks. ✅ Managing Constraints - balancing scope, time, and cost while protecting quality, risk, and benefit. ✅ Structured Approach - turning complex initiatives into clear, phased plans. ✅ Stakeholder Communication - translating between IT and the business so everyone stays aligned. ✅ Accountability - owning outcomes, not just deliverables. So what is an IT Project Manager? They’re the bridge between technology and business. They turn strategy into structure, vision into delivery, and problems into progress. They don’t just “run projects.” They help organizations move from ideas that could work to systems that actually do.

Can tech project managers skip technical knowledge? No. Here's why understanding code is critical. Picture this: You’re managing an app launch. Business sets one deadline, developers set another. Neither side agrees. You’re caught translating—but you don’t fully understand what’s being said. Sound familiar? This misalignment isn’t about who's right. It's about missing one key ingredient: technical fluency. → Not deep coding skills. → Not building APIs from scratch. → Just enough knowledge so you can speak 𝘣𝘰𝘵𝘩 languages. Here’s why that matters: • You’ll catch potential risks before they become disasters. (Think broken features or missed dependencies.) • You’ll set realistic timelines without frustrating dev teams or stakeholders. • You’ll gain trust—both from people writing code and those waiting for results. Now, does this mean every PM needs Python or Java expertise? Not at all. But familiarity with tools like Git or Jenkins can massively up your game: • Track progress directly. • Understand how new changes impact old code. • Join technical conversations without feeling lost. It’s not about writing lines. It's about reading between them. Because being an effective PM isn’t just about hitting deadlines. It's about delivering outcomes—and outcomes happen where business and tech find common ground. ⁉️ How do YOU tackle technical gaps as PM? Let me know your approach.

I've revisited one of my most enduring articles on project management, originally written in 2006, with fresh insights from nearly two decades in technology leadership. The core truth remains: successful projects aren't primarily about methodologies or speed, but about people. While we often fixate on frameworks (whether Waterfall, Agile, or the methodology-du-jour), the human elements consistently determine outcomes. Three factors I've found most critical: - Clear, compelling purpose - Teams deliver extraordinary results when they genuinely understand and believe in the "why" behind their work - Psychological safety - High-performing teams share one attribute: members feel safe to speak up, acknowledge mistakes, and challenge assumptions - Alignment and accountability - When expectations are clear and teams willingly hold each other accountable, magic happens As I've observed while leading technology teams at The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and now at Flatiron Software and Snapshot AI, the most successful digital transformations succeed not because of superior methodologies, but because leaders create environments where teams can do their best work. The best project managers are systems thinkers who understand that methodology matters, but people determine outcomes. Read my full article: https://lnkd.in/eBB_NPed What project management wisdom have you discovered beyond methodologies and tools?

Technical vs. IT Project Management (Know the difference, master the roles) In the fast-paced world of technology, not all project management is created equal. The line between 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 (𝗧𝗣𝗠) and 𝗜𝗧 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 (𝗜𝗧𝗣𝗠) is often blurred, but understanding the distinction is critical for project success. 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 dives deep into the technical details, making it perfect for software development, engineering, or advanced AI projects. 𝗜𝗧 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 delivers technology-enabled solutions, like implementing enterprise software, cloud migrations, or IT infrastructure upgrades. Misaligning the two roles can lead to the following: → Mismatched skillsets → Stakeholder misalignment → Delayed timelines and reduced efficiency So, how do you ensure success? ✅ 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘇𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲𝘀: Assign the right person to the right project based on their expertise. ✅ 𝗦𝗲𝘁 𝗖𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: Understand the depth of technical knowledge or strategic alignment required. ✅ 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗖𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: To bridge knowledge gaps, equip professionals with tools like ITIL, PMP, or AWS Solutions Architect certifications. Whether you manage technical teams or IT solutions, understanding the unique demands of these roles will save you time, resources, and headaches.

"Accelerating Success: Unveiling the Benefits of Technical Program Management in Product Development" In the world of product development, the role of Technical Program Management (TPM) is often the unsung hero behind successful outcomes. TPM brings a unique blend of technical expertise, project management finesse, and stakeholder alignment. In this post, let's uncover the remarkable benefits that TPM brings to the table and how it propels product development towards new heights. 1. Streamlined Collaboration: TPM acts as the glue that binds cross-functional teams together, fostering seamless collaboration. By facilitating effective communication, breaking down silos, and aligning team objectives, TPM ensures that everyone is on the same page. This streamlined collaboration leads to increased efficiency, reduced rework, and accelerated product development timelines. 2. Efficient Resource Management: TPMs are masters of resource allocation and optimization. They navigate the complex landscape of competing priorities, ensuring resources are allocated effectively to achieve project goals. This results in improved productivity, reduced bottlenecks, and optimized utilization of talent, time, and budget. 3. Risk Mitigation: TPMs are skilled in identifying and mitigating risks throughout the product development lifecycle. By conducting thorough risk assessments, implementing risk management strategies, and proactively addressing potential roadblocks, TPMs minimize project disruptions and increase the likelihood of successful outcomes. 4. Agile Adaptability: TPMs are well-versed in agile methodologies, enabling them to adapt quickly to changing requirements and market dynamics. With their expertise in agile frameworks, such as Scrum or Kanban, TPMs drive iterative development, foster innovation, and ensure that products remain aligned with customer needs and market trends. 5. Customer-Centric Focus: TPMs understand the critical importance of delivering products that delight customers. They champion customer-centricity by conducting user research, gathering feedback, and collaborating with product managers to incorporate customer insights into the development process. This focus on the end-user ultimately leads to higher customer satisfaction and increased market success. Let's recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of TPMs in delivering exceptional products that make a meaningful impact. Share your experiences and insights in the comments below to further explore the benefits of TPM in product development. Together, let's continue to elevate the importance of TPM and inspire the next generation of product leaders. #TechnicalProgramManagement #ProductDevelopment #ProjectManagement #AgileMethodologies #Collaboration

Imagine you’re leading Amazon’s Prime Day. 📦⚡ You're managing one of the biggest retail events in the world. You need tight logistics (hello, Waterfall) and real-time responsiveness (enter, Agile). Would a single project management tool be enough? Probably not. You need a hybrid approach—and tools that match. Hybrid project management isn’t about choosing between Agile or Waterfall— 👉 It’s about using both, intentionally and strategically. So how do you choose the right tools? Let’s break it down, Amazon-style: 🛠️ Step 1: Start with upfront planning (Waterfall) Just like Amazon precisely outlines every Prime Day milestone, use tools like: Microsoft Project or Smartsheet These offer robust roadmapping, deadline setting, and deliverable tracking—ideal for planning and structure. 🔁 Then, bring in Agile tools for dynamic, adaptive execution: Jira for backlog management and sprints Trello or Asana for real-time team collaboration Miro for visual brainstorming and iterative design 🎯 The key? Choose tools that align with your methodology mix, team needs, and phase of the project. Your tech stack should flex with your project—not against it. 💡 Tools don’t run projects—people do. But the right tools make it smoother, smarter, and more scalable. #ProjectEconomy #ProjectManagement #ContinuousLearning 🎯💡

Agile, Waterfall, Traditional, Hybrid, Sequential If we consider a project life cycle, covering the project from ideation to closure (attached image), we can say: 1️⃣ We need a discovery stage in all projects (regardless of the label). In this stage, we define the business case, conduct a feasibility study, authorize the project, and establish acceptance and success criteria. It does not matter how we develop the product. 2️⃣ We need a requirements stage in all projects (regardless of the label). In this stage, we explore the stakeholders’ expectations and establish the business requirements. 3️⃣ We need a definition stage in all projects (regardless of the label). However, here, we might start using a different approach. 🟠 If the project is to deliver the end product as one big bang (one deliverable at the end) like a facility, then we often develop a semi-detailed approach suitable to acquire funding and award contracts for implementation (execution). This could include preliminary engineering work. 🟠 However, if the project is to deliver the product in increments or iterations, then the definition stage will lead to a high-level plan and the creation of a product backlog and tentative roadmap. 4️⃣ We need a delivery phase in all projects (regardless of the label). In this stage, we see the significant differences in the project. 🟠 If the project is to deliver the end product as one big bang, we do design > construction > handover sequentially with some overlaps. Per competent project management, we allow necessary change and can continue to plan and develop the work through work packages. 🟠 However, if the project is to deliver the product in increments or iterations, then we can use iterative and incremental development and release the final product in pieces. 5️⃣ We need the operational readiness stages in all projects (regardless of the label). This work would directly relate to the implementation and must align with the development approach (Iterative/Incremental -- OR -- Sequential). 6️⃣ Finally, we need the PLC closure stage for all projects. The above is to help our community understand a genuine adaptive project management method. There are #no agile methods; #no waterfall methods; and Hybrid methods are playing on labels. Once again, competent project management is adaptive. ✴️ There are #no early detailed and #fixed plans. In sequential planning, we do more upfront planning, but it is neither complete nor fixed. In Iterative/Incremental planning, we have a high-level plan and then plan each increment. ✴️ In all projects, we have ongoing communication between the owner, PM team, and developer. We allow change in all projects: the difference is that we must consider the cost of change. In facilities projects, early changes are easier/cheaper to absorb. However, once we reach construction, the cost could be 1000x more and highly disruptive. Despite this fact, if change is necessary, we do it.

Facing challenges is part of the game, but how we tackle them sets us apart. 💪 As a Senior TPM at Fiserv, I've navigated some tough waters. Let me share what’s worked for me: ✅ Ambiguous Project Requirements: Engage stakeholders early, document every detail, and embrace Agile methodologies. ✅ Unrealistic Deadlines & Budget Constraints: Set honest expectations, prioritize tasks, and leverage smart tech strategies. ✅ Managing Distributed Teams: Use communication tools like Slack and Zoom with clear protocols to ensure collaboration. ✅ Rapidly Changing Technology: Stay agile and commit to continuous learning to keep projects future-ready. ✅ Cybersecurity Risks: Implement robust security measures, conduct regular audits, and foster a culture of vigilance. ✅ Ineffective Stakeholder Management: Be transparent and keep key influencers informed to align priorities for success. What strategies have you found effective in navigating project challenges? Let’s learn together! #ProgramManagement #ProjectManagement #ArtificialIntelligence #Leadership #TechManagement #Agile #Cybersecurity #StakeholderManagement #ContinuousLearning #Collaboration #ProblemSolving #GenerativeAI

As CTO of a startup, here are some frustrating and time-consuming mistakes that taught me to manage technical projects efficiently: 🕒Undefined Scope of Work: Without a clearly defined document spelling out the scope, projects can quickly spiral out of control, causing frustration for everyone involved. Ensure all stakeholders are on the same page regarding project goals, requirements, and deliverables. 🕒 Mixing Business and Technical: I insist on having a business contact and a technical contact to move things along fast. It's essential to separate business objectives from technical challenges. Clear delineation allows for focused problem-solving and prevents unnecessary distractions. 🕒 Lack of Reporting and Updates: Frequent communication is key to project success. Provide consistent updates to all team members and stakeholders to inform everyone of progress, challenges, and milestones. Based on the scope, you can determine the frequency. 🕒 Neglecting Git Flow Best Practices: Following Git Flow best practices ensures a smooth and organized development process for everyone. Proper branching, merging, and version control help prevent code conflicts and streamline collaboration. 🕒 Absence of Project Meetings: Recurring project huddles bring team members together to discuss progress, address issues, and align on next steps. These meetings foster collaboration and ensure everyone is working towards common goals. By avoiding these mistakes, you opt for an effective project management strategy that boosts productivity and achieves project success.  #ProjectManagement #Developers #Mistakes

Ever wondered how tech giants like Google, Apple, Microsoft, Netflix, Meta, and others manage to deliver successful software projects? One of the key challenges they face is scope creep in software engineering. Scope creep refers to the gradual expansion of project requirements beyond the initial scope, leading to delays, budget overruns, and decreased quality. It's a common issue in the industry, but managing it effectively is crucial for project success. You can effectively manage it by maintaining open and transparent communication with stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle. Keep them informed about the project's progress, and encourage them to voice any new requirements or changes early on to prevent last-minute additions. Prioritize project requirements based on their importance and impact on project goals. Focus on delivering essential features first and defer non-critical enhancements to future iterations or phases to prevent scope creep. From setting clear project boundaries to implementing change control processes, there are strategies to prevent scope creep and ensure project objectives are met.