To understand project management better, here are some essential terms and concepts:
- Project – A temporary effort undertaken to create a unique product, service, or result.
- Project Management – The application of knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques to meet project requirements.
- Scope – Defines what the project will deliver (and what it will not).
- Stakeholders – Individuals or groups who are impacted by the project or can influence its outcome.
- Deliverables – Tangible or intangible outputs produced by the project.
- Milestones – Significant checkpoints or goals achieved during the project lifecycle.
- Constraints – The “triple constraints” of project management: time, cost, and scope (sometimes extended to include quality and resources).
- Risk – Potential events or conditions that may impact the project’s success.
- Resources – People, materials, tools, and budget needed to complete the project.
- Project Lifecycle – The sequence of phases a project goes through from start to finish (e.g., initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and closure).