“PMD Pro Starter: A Comprehensive Guide for Project Management” is the perfect resource for project managers working mainly in the development, humanitarian, or nonprofit sectors.
Each tool has an explanation, a template, a brief animated video, and a slide deck, making it easy to use and understand.
Whether you need to analyse problems, plan project activities, manage risks, or evaluate project success, the PMD Pro Starter has you covered.
This guide is necessary to enhance your project management skills and improve overall project outcomes in the international development and humanitarian sectors.
Project managers in the development sector can use the guide to assess their competence in applying the Project DPro framework and get certified upon sitting for and passing the Project DPro exam.
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Overview of PMD Pro Starter
It aims to provide project management professionals with the tools and resources to plan, implement, and evaluate projects effectively.
It has fifteen tools, each with a slide deck, an animated video, a template, and an explanation.
These tools cover various aspects of project management, from problem analysis to project closure.
Collaborators and Contributors of PMD Pro Starter
The development of PMD Pro Starter resulted from a collaborative effort by Plan International, PM4NGOs, LINGOs, and the Humanitarian Leadership Academy.
LINGOs, a global consortium of humanitarian organisations, led the initiative and contributed their expertise in project management.
Plan International, an international child rights organisation, brought their experience implementing projects in diverse contexts.
PM4NGOs, a non-profit organisation focussing on project management for development professionals, provided valuable insights and guidance.
Finally, the Humanitarian Leadership Academy, a network of learning centres for humanitarian professionals, contributed their knowledge and resources to enhance the project management capabilities of individuals and organisations.
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Description of PMD Pro Starter Tools and Resources
PMD Pro Starter offers comprehensive tools and resources to support project management professionals at every stage.
These tools include:
Problem Tree
The Problem Tree tool in PMD Pro Starter assists in analysing the causes of problems and their effects.
It provides a visual representation of the problem, enabling the identification of underlying issues that need to be addressed.
Objective Tree
The Objective Tree tool in PMD Pro Starter helps define the solutions that address the root problems identified in the Problem Tree.
It allows project managers to set clear and measurable objectives for their projects.
Logical Framework
The Logical Framework tool enables project managers to plan the logical flow of the intervention.
It helps identify the strategies, activities, inputs, and outputs required to achieve the desired outcomes.
Project Charter
The project charter is a tool that facilitates obtaining authorisation to start project activities.
It outlines the project’s objectives, scope, resources, and stakeholders, providing a clear framework for project implementation.
Budget
The Budget tool assists in determining the financial resources needed for the project and their allocation over time.
It helps project managers plan, monitor, and control project expenses.
Work Breakdown Structure
The Work Breakdown Structure tool helps in organising project work into manageable components.
It breaks down the project into tasks, sub-tasks, and work packages, allowing for better resource allocation and task management.
Network Diagram
The Network Diagram tool enables project managers to estimate project activities’ duration and interdependencies accurately.
It visualises the sequence of activities and helps identify critical paths.
PMD Pro Starter Risk Register
The Risk Register tool helps identify, assess, and manage risks to project success. It allows project managers to prioritise risks and develop strategies to mitigate their impact.
PMD Pro Starter Gantt Chart
The Gantt Chart tool is used to develop a project schedule.
It visually represents project tasks, their duration, and their dependencies, enabling project managers to plan and monitor project progress effectively.
Implementation Plan
The Implementation Plan tool assists project managers in developing a comprehensive roadmap for project implementation.
It outlines the activities, responsibilities, and timelines to achieve project objectives.
RACI Diagram
The RACI Diagram tool clarifies the roles and responsibilities of project stakeholders. It helps identify who is responsible, accountable, consulted, and informed for each project task or decision.
PMD Pro StarterIssue Log
The Issue Log tool identifies, tracks, and resolves project issues. It provides a systematic approach to managing and documenting issues, ensuring timely resolution.
PMD Pro Starter Change Control
The Change Control tool helps project managers manage changes to the project plan.
It provides a structured process for evaluating and implementing changes, ensuring they align with project objectives.
After Action Review
The After-Action Review tool analyses project performance and identifies lessons learnt.
It enables project managers to assess what worked well and what can be improved in future projects.
Project Closure Checklist
The Project Closure Checklist tool ensures that all contractual obligations have been met and all project activities have been completed.
It helps managers wrap up the project and document critical learnings and outcomes.
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Benefits of Using PMD Pro Starter
Using PMD Pro Starter can provide project management professionals with numerous benefits. Some of the key advantages include:
Improved Project Planning and Execution
The comprehensive set of tools and resources helps project managers plan their projects more effectively.
Project managers can use tools such as the problem tree, objective tree, logical framework, and work breakdown structure to ensure that all aspects of the project are well-defined and organised.
This leads to better project execution and increased chances of achieving project objectives.
Enhanced Resource Management
It offers tools such as the Budget and Work Breakdown Structure, which assist project managers in effectively managing project resources.
Project managers can optimise resource allocation and ensure efficient utilisation by accurately determining the required financial resources and organising project work into manageable components.
Risk Mitigation and Issue Resolution
The Risk Register, Issue Log, and Change Control tools provided by PMD Pro Starter help project managers identify, assess, and manage risks and issues throughout the project lifecycle.
By proactively addressing potential risks and resolving issues promptly, project managers can minimise disruptions and increase the likelihood of project success.
Improved Project Monitoring and Evaluation
PMD Pro Starter provides tools like the Gantt Chart and After Action Review to support project monitoring and evaluation.
These tools enable project managers to track project progress, identify areas of improvement, and assess project outcomes.
Project managers can make informed decisions and improve performance by regularly monitoring and evaluating projects.
PMD Pro Starter Standardisation and Common Language
One key benefit of using PMD Pro Starter is its standardisation of project management practices.
The tools and resources offer project professionals a common language and framework, facilitating better collaboration and communication.
This joint project language improves coordination and ensures all stakeholders clearly understand project goals, activities, and responsibilities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, PMD Pro Starter is a valuable resource for project management professionals.
It offers comprehensive tools and resources for project planning, execution, and evaluation.
Project managers can use PMD Pro Starter to enhance their project management capabilities, improve project outcomes, and create a common language for effective collaboration.
