Project management is one of the 19 functional FM knowledge areas that are categorized into four key knowledge domains.

Definition: Project management is the use of skills, knowledge, and tools and techniques in overseeing all activities related to a project. The project manager’s role is to ensure that the stated objectives of the project are achieved.

Project management is an ideal tool for achieving goals with unique requirements that can best be accomplished by temporary teams customized to the need. Therefore, project management is a fundamental skill for managing assets at all stages of their life cycles. Project management, rather than regular operations or maintenance, is the best tool for improving operations or maintenance processes, upgrading complex facility systems, implementing programs such as a recycling program, relocating staff and equipment, reallocating space due to churn, and renovating facilities or constructing new ones.

Facility managers’ project roles involve management of a project through its distinct processes of initiating, planning, executing, and closure, while providing monitoring and controlling at all points to integrate the work of the project team and guide other stakeholders. Goals include:

• Using human and other resources effectively and efficiently.
• Meeting the project’s objectives within scope, time, and cost constraints.
• Providing objective evidence of progress and results.
• Handing over required deliverables at the right quality and technical performance levels as proven by acceptance by the customer.

The overarching goal is to ensure that the interests of the organization and its customers are represented throughout the project life cycle.

Key Concepts:

• Definition of projects versus operations.
• Project triangle constraints and tradeoffs.
• Project stakeholders and roles.
• Project management process and milestones.
• Inputs, processes, and outputs.
• Project charter.
• Programming.
• Project scope.
• Work breakdown structure (WBS).
• Project scheduling methods and tools.
• Critical path method (CPM).
• Project budgeting.
• Managing teams.
• Project communication.
• Variance analysis (schedule and budget).
• Quality control and metrics.
• Project closeout processes.

Project Management Proficiency Indicators (Task Statements)

• Develops and manages a project budget.
• Follows project management processes and procedures per the organization’s preferred methodology.
• Works in integrated project teams to execute small, medium, and large projects.
• Balances project priorities based on achievement of the organization’s vision, strategic direction, and long-term goals.
• Demonstrates an understanding of work roles and expectations of each team member within a project.
• Performs project programming to define project expectations.
• Establishes project baselines from which progress toward attainment of goals can be measured.
• Performs project scheduling (identifies and monitors the resources necessary to implement and maintain FM projects based on approved scope and deliverables).
• Operates project schedule with a global mindset and respect for cross-cultural differences.
• Manages and coordinates project execution using project management processes and procedures.
• Demonstrates ability to translate innovative ideas into actionable project tasks.
• Identifies and develops solutions for overcoming system limitations, leading to the successful completion of projects.
• Demonstrates knowledge of performance measurement concepts (e.g., SMART—specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound).
• Uses key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure project performance to identify any variances and corrective actions.
• Develops communication plan and facilitates timely communications with project stakeholders to keep them engaged and informed.
• Establishes feedback systems to support continuous improvement of an organization’s processes, practices, and results (outcomes).
• Evaluates project performance and outcomes.
• Performs project closeout functions.

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