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IT project manager The work IT project managers work for companies specialising in information technology but also in sectors unrelated to IT that rely heavily on IT systems. They oversee the development and implementation of plans to meet clients' specific business needs. They also manage the change control procedures used to ensure a smooth transition during the implementation period. Projects can be both in-house and for external clients. The role also involves coordinating the work of the project team. IT project managers work in an increasingly broad cross-section of industry and commerce as more organisations become reliant on IT systems. Common employers include IT and telecommunications companies, banks, financial institutions, local authorities and public sector organisations. Projects differ according to the sector but examples might include the installation of a new computer system for managing electronic patient records in the health service, or integrating and upgrading previously separate telephony and computer networks within a contact centre. Project managers use project management tools, software and methodologies to implement plans.
Projects can vary in scale: they can be entirely within a company; they can involve working at a regional or national level; or they can be multi-agency projects, spanning national frontiers. Hours and Environment Project managers work normal office hours, but overtime may be necessary depending on deadlines. Skills and Interests As a project manager in IT, you should:
Entry You need several years' relevant experience preferably backed up with formal qualifications such as a foundation degree, degree or postgraduate qualification in computing or project management. Qualifications in information systems or related disciplines would be acceptable, as would a business-related degree with a technical component. Entry requirements for a degree course are normally five O level’s (A-C)/S grades (1-3) or equivalent qualifications. You may be able enter this field if you have existing project management skills from other occupational sectors but have moved into IT, or have been given responsibility for developing a project that involves a component of information technology. Knowledge of common methodologies, such as PRINCE2 is useful, although not always essential. Similarly, an understanding of project management software related to your sector may be helpful. However, experience of managing projects is usually considered more important by companies, as specific training can be provided once employed. For information on PRINCE2 and software training provision, see the Association for Project Management (APM) and PRINCE2 websites, in the Further Information section. Training The type of training depends primarily on whether you are already an IT professional or coming into the field from a business background with project management experience. In the former case, there are specific IT project management qualifications available through the Association of Project Management (APM) and the Information Systems Examinations Board (ISEB). In the latter, there are generic qualifications such as degrees and postgraduate level coursesand qualifications offered by the Institute of Project Management (IPM). An outline of requirements is listed below.
Introductory Certificate No formal knowledge or experience is required. The Certificate covers the basics for anyone wishing to move in to this field as a career. APMP Open to anyone working in the project management field. The exam has two papers that assess the candidate's knowledge and understanding across a wide range of practices and issues in relation to project management. Certificated Project Manager (CPM) You have to be a full member of the Association of Project Management, and you should either currently manage a project or have managed a project within the last five years. These are qualifications that acknowledge your competence as a project manager, and are recognised by the International Project Management Association (IPMA). They can also lead to exemption from the written examination stage of the ISEB Certificate in Project Management. The Project Management Institute (PMI) Project Management Professional (PMP) The exam assesses the candidate's professional knowledge in five key areas: initiating, planning, executing, controlling and closing. You should hold a minimum of a degree qualification and have at least 4,500 hours' experience gained over three to six years, or be educated to A level standard or equivalent and have a minimum of 7,500 hours' experience gained over five to eight years. The exam consists of a four-hour multiple choice test covering the five process areas listed above. Opportunities Opportunities for project managers in IT are growing as more companies employ information systems technology to manage and develop their operations. There are opportunities to work overseas, especially if you are working for a multi-national company. The organisations listed in Further Information offer continuing professional development schemes for their members that allow progression into more strategic roles at company, inter-company, national and international levels. Annual Income Further information PRINCE2 Project Management Institute Association for Project Management (APM) |
