Project Management was the third core function that was seen as essential to all eight career clusters. As with task management, the level of importance to the career field varied more than problem solving. There is also variation between the clusters as to the scope and complexity of the projects. For example, software engineers would typically be involved in projects of greater scope and complexity than a technical support representative. Also, it is important to note that the IT Skill Standards describe the standards for entry level positions where workers are more likely to be a member of a team working on a project than to be the manager of the project. However, to be an effective team member, all IT workers need to have project management skills. The tasks required for project management defined in the skill standards are:

• Define scope of project
• Identify stakeholders, decision-makers and escalation procedures
• Develop detailed task list (work breakdown structures)
• Estimate time requirements
• Develop initial project management flow chart
• Identify required resources and budget
• Evaluate project requirements
• Identify and evaluate risks
• Prepare contingency plan
• Identify interdependencies
• Identify and track critical milestones
• Participate in project phase review
• Secure needed resources
• Manage the change control process
• Report project status

Curriculum Recommendations:

1. All IT programs should incorporate outcomes and competencies that address task management.
2. The amount of emphasis on task management will vary depending on the nature of the IT program.
3. See the Model Curriculum section for sample learner program outcomes, key competencies, and performance indicators.