Traditional Project Management

Abstract

The prime objective of this chapter is to introduce the topic of project management (PM) to the reader. The chapter starts, as is appropriate, with some basic definitions of the term. Next, it describes the key principles of the traditional PM methodology. Then, it shows how these general principles are applied in some of the most popular examples of traditional PM methodologies such as PMBOK, PRINCE 2 and SIX SIGMA. Finally, the chapter ends with a discussion of pros and cons of each of these specific methodologies in different project circumstances and emphasizes the importance of making the right choice. Essentially, this first chapter sets the scene for the remaining seven chapters of the book. Together, they celebrate PM progress made so far and take the next step to move the field forward.