Nicholas Simmons
Beijing EAPS Consulting, Inc
BUS518
5/13/2012

A project involves a set of interrelated tasks with a single, definable purpose, end-item, or result, usually over a fixed period, with a cost, schedule and performance requirement (Nicolas, 2004). Every project takes on its own identity, even though the end products can similar. For example, the process of constructing a house may seem routine, however, there will always be something that changes in regards to client specifications, land profile, local utility locations, material specifications, and material prices. Due to the complexity of some projects and the possibility of handling several projects at the same time, managers are often faced with the task of putting together and managing temporary organizations while taking into consideration all uncertainties that may come their way, a new form of project organization have evolved (Nicolas, 2004). Project Management, can be known as, “the application of knowledge, skills and techniques to execute projects effectively and efficiently. It’s a strategic competency for groups and organizations, enabling them to tie project results to business goals” (Project Management Institute, 2011). The three key features that distinguish the modern project management from the earlier forms of management are: the project manager, the project team, and the project management system (Nicolas, 2004). A Project Manager is a single person tasked or has the responsibility to plan, direct, and integrate the work efforts of his or her staff to achieve the project goals. Project managers may administratively report to functional or department managers or program managers with respect to their projects or those who act as subcontractors to program managers; report to program managers while managing resources from functional groups; or report directly to the executive