Project Management

Project Management: Planning, Execution and Control

This course provides a comprehensive framework for effective project management, focusing on planning, execution, and control. Participants will learn to apply methodologies and tools essential for managing projects successfully, ensuring timely delivery within scope and budget constraints.

5 days Classroom or live online English

Smart Horizon Certified - Global Leadership Consultants

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Download the full standard outline: why attend, methodology, objectives, audience, competencies, the daily outline and current plans.

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Why attend

From knowledge to real-world impact.

Project managers often face significant challenges in aligning project goals with stakeholder expectations, managing resources effectively, and navigating unforeseen risks. This course addresses these critical issues by equipping participants with structured planning techniques and execution strategies that enhance project outcomes. By mastering these elements, project managers can maintain project momentum, achieve objectives, and deliver value to stakeholders. Additionally, participants will learn to balance competing demands, ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget, which is essential for organisational success and client satisfaction. These skills are crucial for fostering a collaborative environment that drives project success.

Effective project execution and control are vital for minimising risks and ensuring project success. Participants will engage in practical exercises that simulate real-world scenarios, allowing them to apply learned methodologies. This hands-on approach fosters the development of critical decision-making skills necessary for navigating complex project environments. Participants will practice assessing project performance, identifying variances, and implementing corrective actions. By the end of the course, they will be equipped to lead projects confidently, communicate effectively with stakeholders, and adapt to changing circumstances, ultimately driving project success and contributing to their organisation's strategic objectives. This capability is essential for enhancing overall project delivery and stakeholder satisfaction.

Workplace challenges

Professional Problems This Course Is Designed to Solve

The programme explores practical approaches to the following challenges. Results depend on how the learning is applied in your organisation.

Unclear project scope, objectives and success criteria.
Plans that do not account for resources, dependencies and risks.
Weak monitoring of delivery and uncontrolled changes.

Course methodology

How you will learn.

The course employs a blend of interactive workshops, case studies, and simulations to reinforce learning. Participants will engage in group exercises that mimic real project scenarios, allowing them to practice planning, execution, and control techniques. Each day includes specific tasks that require participants to apply theoretical concepts to practical situations. Outputs will include project plans, risk assessments, and performance reports, demonstrating their ability to apply learned methodologies effectively. This approach ensures that participants not only understand the principles of project management but also gain hands-on experience in managing projects from initiation to closure, preparing them for real-world challenges. The integration of collaborative activities further enhances teamwork and communication skills essential for successful project management.

Course objectives

What you'll take away.

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

Analyse project requirements to develop a comprehensive project plan.
Design a project schedule using Gantt charts and critical path methods.
Assess project risks and develop mitigation strategies for identified risks.
Prioritise project tasks based on resource availability and stakeholder input.
Construct a project budget that aligns with project scope and objectives.
Evaluate project performance using key performance indicators (KPIs) and provide recommendations for improvement.
Implement effective communication strategies to engage stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle.

Target audience

Who should attend.

This course is suitable for:

Project Managers responsible for leading teams and delivering projects.
Team Leaders involved in project execution and monitoring progress.
Business Analysts who support project requirements and stakeholder communication.
Operations Managers overseeing project integration with business processes.

Target competencies

Capabilities you will build.

Participants will develop competencies in:

Developing detailed project plans that align with strategic objectives.
Utilising project management software for scheduling and resource allocation.
Implementing risk management frameworks to identify and mitigate project risks.
Communicating effectively with stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle.
Monitoring project progress and making data-driven adjustments as necessary.
Facilitating team collaboration to enhance project execution.

Course outline

Your learning journey.

A focused, practical outline with time to explore, apply and reflect.

Day 1Foundations of Project Management

Applied activity: Participants will create a project charter for a fictional project, identifying stakeholders, scope, objectives, and deliverables using a structured template. They will also assess potential risks and outline initial strategies for stakeholder engagement.

Output: A completed project charter document outlining the project's key elements.

09:00–09:54Understanding project management principles and methodologies, including PMBOK and Agile.
09:54–10:48Identifying project stakeholders, their roles, and expectations for successful outcomes.
10:48–11:00Defining project scope and objectives clearly to avoid scope creep.
11:00–11:30Coffee break
11:30–12:12Defining project scope and objectives clearly to avoid scope creep. (continued)
12:12–13:06Exploring the project lifecycle phases: initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and closure.
13:06–14:00Introduction to project management tools and software, such as MS Project and Trello.

Day 2Project Planning Techniques

Applied activity: Using the WBS, participants will develop a detailed project schedule, including task dependencies, resource allocation, and timelines, ensuring all aspects are covered. They will also prepare a presentation to communicate the schedule to stakeholders.

Output: A comprehensive project schedule with Gantt chart and resource allocation details.

09:00–09:54Developing a work breakdown structure (WBS) for detailed task identification and organisation.
09:54–10:48Creating a project schedule with Gantt charts and critical path analysis to optimise timelines.
10:48–11:00Estimating resources and time for project activities using estimation techniques like PERT.
11:00–11:30Coffee break
11:30–12:12Estimating resources and time for project activities using estimation techniques like PERT. (continued)
12:12–13:06Setting milestones and deliverables for tracking progress against the project plan.
13:06–14:00Integrating stakeholder feedback into project planning to ensure alignment and buy-in.

Day 3Executing Projects Effectively

Applied activity: Participants will role-play a project team meeting to discuss progress, address challenges, and adjust the project plan accordingly, simulating real-world dynamics. They will practice conflict resolution and decision-making skills during the meeting.

Output: Meeting minutes summarising decisions, action items, and adjustments to the project plan.

09:00–09:54Implementing project plans and managing team dynamics to foster collaboration and productivity.
09:54–10:48Utilising communication tools for team collaboration, including virtual meeting platforms and project management software.
10:48–11:00Applying Agile methodologies for iterative project execution and continuous improvement.
11:00–11:30Coffee break
11:30–12:12Applying Agile methodologies for iterative project execution and continuous improvement. (continued)
12:12–13:06Monitoring project progress and adapting plans as needed to address challenges and changes.
13:06–14:00Managing stakeholder expectations during execution through regular updates and feedback sessions.

Day 4Controlling and Monitoring Projects

Applied activity: Participants will analyse a case study with performance data to identify variances, assess their impact, and propose corrective actions to realign the project. They will also prepare a report to present their findings to stakeholders.

Output: A report detailing performance analysis, variances identified, and recommended corrective actions.

09:00–09:54Establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) for project success and tracking progress effectively.
09:54–10:48Using earned value management (EVM) to assess project performance against budget and schedule.
10:48–11:00Conducting regular project reviews and status updates to ensure alignment with objectives.
11:00–11:30Coffee break
11:30–12:12Conducting regular project reviews and status updates to ensure alignment with objectives. (continued)
12:12–13:06Identifying and addressing project variances promptly to mitigate risks and delays.
13:06–14:00Implementing corrective actions to keep projects on track and aligned with stakeholder expectations.

Day 5Integrated Project Management Simulation

Applied activity: Teams will manage a simulated project from initiation to closure, making decisions based on evolving project scenarios and stakeholder inputs, simulating real project dynamics. They will also present their project outcomes to a panel of stakeholders for feedback.

Output: A final project report summarising outcomes, lessons learned, and future recommendations for project management practices.

09:00–09:54Applying all learned concepts in a simulated project environment to reinforce skills and knowledge.
09:54–10:48Collaborating in teams to manage a complex project scenario, making decisions based on evolving project data.
10:48–11:00Making real-time decisions based on project data and stakeholder feedback to drive project success.
11:00–11:30Coffee break
11:30–12:12Making real-time decisions based on project data and stakeholder feedback to drive project success. (continued)
12:12–13:06Evaluating project outcomes against initial objectives and KPIs to assess overall performance.
13:06–14:00Reflecting on lessons learned and areas for improvement to enhance future project management practices.

The timings provided are estimates and may vary depending on the number of participants and the discussions taking place during the sessions. They are indicative only and do not constitute a binding commitment.

Dates & venues

Find a session that works for you.

Confirmed dates accept registration requests. Tentative dates are enquiry only.

Good to know

A few things to know.

How is the course delivered?

Our classroom programmes combine facilitated discussion, case studies, exercises and reflection. The precise format will be confirmed before enrolment.

Can you deliver this programme for our team?

Yes, you can enquire about a tailored programme. Share your goals, group size and preferred dates with our learning team.

Will I receive a certificate?

Participants who complete the programme receive a Smart Horizon UK certificate of attendance. Smart Horizon UK programmes are not externally accredited and do not award a professional qualification, licence or designation. Where a course title or outline refers to a professional certification (for example, AACE International's Certified Cost Professional), the programme supports learning and preparation only; the credential itself is awarded solely by the relevant professional body under its own application and examination requirements.

What should I confirm before booking travel?

Please confirm the session, exact venue, accessibility arrangements, fees and any visa requirements with the team before arranging travel. Tentative dates are not confirmed sessions.

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