Introduction

To manage a project well is demanding and challenging, yet a widespread belief exists that just about anyone can do it. This belief alone accounts for many project failures. The skills needed to manage a project and lead a team are described in this chapter. These skills are not very different from those of any other managerial role, however, they are significant in that the objective is to win the support of project team members who often must be treated as if they were volunteers. Armed with these particular leadership skills and an understanding of the Integrated Project Management (IPM) step-by-step method, a project manager will be able to consistently complete projects to specifications and finish on time and within budget.