Project Planning

As mentioned in the previous blog there are several challenges that can occur when planning and organizing a project. If these challenges are well understood then they can be met and dealt with during each stage of planning. Regarding this, the book mentions the several stages in which the project manager must plan and re-plan. These stages are: the proposal stage, the project startup phase and periodically throughout the project. It's important that during all stages of planning, the manager and the proposed plans are very flexible. Due to the ever changing nature of software and development it's important to be ready to change plans at any point.

Often times a plan developed during the proposal stage will sound great, and the manager will be resistant to change. Again, the importance of the manager having the same or similar understanding as the developers arises. It is important that the manager listens to any concerns brought up by the developers, especially if they don't have that all-encompassing understanding. Problems will always occur, and sometimes a plan at the beginning will not hold up under the stress of ongoing development.

Additionally, at the start of planning, it is important to have a good understanding of all of the requirements. Having good foresight will assist in having a strong plan that will require fewer adjustments as the project evolves. Organization is of tantamount importance and as long as the requirements are understood the plan will hold up well.