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Margaret Meloni, MBA, PMP
The courses in the Introduction to Project Management Principles and Practices Specialization are a recommended precursor to UCI's Applied Project Management Certificate.
Successful projects require careful upfront planning. In this course, you’ll learn the key roles and responsibilities of the project manager and project team. You’ll also learn to answer some key questions upfront to help you meet project objectives: What will this project accomplish? Why is this project important? Who benefits from this project? How will we plan for successful outcomes?
Read more
The courses in the Introduction to Project Management Principles and Practices Specialization are a recommended precursor to UCI's Applied Project Management Certificate.
Successful projects require careful upfront planning. In this course, you’ll learn the key roles and responsibilities of the project manager and project team. You’ll also learn to answer some key questions upfront to help you meet project objectives: What will this project accomplish? Why is this project important? Who benefits from this project? How will we plan for successful outcomes?
Read more
The courses in the Introduction to Project Management Principles and Practices Specialization are a recommended precursor to UCI's Applied Project Management Certificate.
Successful projects require careful upfront planning. In this course, you’ll learn the key roles and responsibilities of the project manager and project team. You’ll also learn to answer some key questions upfront to help you meet project objectives: What will this project accomplish? Why is this project important? Who benefits from this project? How will we plan for successful outcomes?
Upon completing this course, you will be able to:
1. Identify the key characteristics of a project
2. Identify primary project constraints
3. Define the role and responsibilities of the project manager
4. Identify Project Organizational Structures
5. Understand the definition of a Project Stakeholder
6. Identify project stakeholders
7. Identify information needs of the project stakeholders
8. Define responsibility for managing stakeholder and controlling stakeholder engagement
9. Define the purpose of using a project charter
10. Summarize the key elements of a project plan
11. Identify common sources of conflict within a project environment
12. Describe the difference between authority and influence
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/7kk3h7/initiating
What's inside
Syllabus
Get Started!
Get started in this module by reviewing the course overview and participating in the course survey.
What is a Project?
In this module, we will identify the key characteristics of a project, identify primary project constraints, define the role and responsibilities of the project manager, and identify Project Organizational Structures.
Read more
Syllabus
Get Started!
Get started in this module by reviewing the course overview and participating in the course survey.
What is a Project?
In this module, we will identify the key characteristics of a project, identify primary project constraints, define the role and responsibilities of the project manager, and identify Project Organizational Structures.
Read more
Get to Know your Stakeholders
In this module, we will understand the definition of a project stakeholder, identify who they are, identify their information needs, and define responsibility for managing stakeholders and controlling their engagement.
Scope Matters
In this module, we will define the purpose of using a project charter, summarize the key elements of a project plan, and discuss the scope statement and the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS).
Authority vs. Influence
In this module, we will describe the difference between authority and influence and identify common sources of conflict within a project environment.
Wrap Up
Wrap up this course by meeting our industry expert panelists, taking the final exam, and participating in our post course survey.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Covers a range of foundational concepts in project management, making it a well-rounded starting point
Taught by instructors with experience and credentials in project management delivery and instruction
Designed as a first step in a specialization and can form part of a structured learning pathway
Provides a preliminary foundation for industry-recognized credentials (PMP)
Emphasizes planning, a crucial aspect often inadequately addressed in real-world projects
Course requires learners to engage with pre-existing knowledge in the field
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Reviews summary
Project initiation and planning
This course, titled "Initiating and Planning Projects," is based on reviews from 2747 students who participated in the project management specialization provided by the University of California, Irvine. The sentiment score indicates a very favorable reception among students.
**Key Findings**
* The course is widely praised for providing learners with a solid understanding of the fundamentals of project management, specifically in the initiation and planning stages.
* Instructor Margaret Meloni receives high marks for her clear and engaging teaching style, as well as her practical insights from her own experiences as a project manager.
* The course materials are comprehensive and well-organized, including videos, readings, quizzes, and bonus interviews with industry experts.
* Students appreciate the balance between theoretical concepts and practical application, helping them to grasp the real-world relevance of the material.
* The course is highly recommended for project managers, aspiring project managers, and anyone seeking to enhance their project management skills.
**Notes**
* A few reviewers note that the course heavily relies on materials from the PMBOK (Project Management Body of Knowledge), which may require additional time and effort for students who do not have prior knowledge of this framework.
* The course includes a significant amount of reading material, which some learners may find more time-consuming than anticipated.
* The final exam is reported to be largely comprised of questions from the previous quizzes, which may reduce the challenge for students who have thoroughly reviewed the earlier material.
**Detailed Summary**
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practices of project management, with a focus on the initiation and planning phases. Through a combination of video lectures, readings, quizzes, and interviews with practicing project managers, learners gain a deep understanding of how to initiate, define, and plan a successful project.
Instructor Margaret Meloni is highly praised for her ability to convey complex concepts in a clear and engaging manner. She effectively combines theoretical knowledge with real-world examples and shares valuable insights from her own experiences. The bonus videos featuring interviews with industry experts provide additional perspectives on project management challenges and best practices.
The course materials are well-organized and provide a comprehensive overview of the project initiation and planning process. The videos are concise and informative, and the readings offer in-depth coverage of key topics. Quizzes at the end of each module help reinforce learning and provide opportunities for self-assessment.
Students particularly appreciate the balance between theoretical concepts and practical application. The course not only teaches the fundamentals of project management but also demonstrates how to apply these principles in real-world scenarios. Case studies and examples throughout the modules help learners to connect the dots and understand the practical implications of the material.
Overall, this course is highly recommended for anyone seeking to develop or enhance their project management skills. It provides a solid foundation in the initiation and planning phases, and the engaging teaching style and practical approach make it an enjoyable and valuable learning experience.
The course includes a significant amount of reading material, which some learners may find more time-consuming than anticipated.
"The course includes a significant amount of reading material, which some learners may find more time-consuming than anticipated."
The final exam is reported to be largely comprised of questions from the previous quizzes, which may reduce the challenge for students who have thoroughly reviewed the earlier material.
"The final exam is reported to be largely comprised of questions from the previous quizzes, which may reduce the challenge for students who have thoroughly reviewed the earlier material."
The course relies heavily on materials from the PMBOK (Project Management Body of Knowledge), which may require additional time and effort for students who do not have prior knowledge of this framework.
"A few reviewers note that the course heavily relies on materials from the PMBOK (Project Management Body of Knowledge), which may require additional time and effort for students who do not have prior knowledge of this framework."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Initiating and Planning Projects with these
activities:
Practice Identifying Project Stakeholders
Show steps
Practicing identifying project stakeholders will help you develop the skills you need to identify the people who will be affected by your project.
Browse courses on
Project Stakeholders
Show steps
-
Find a list of project stakeholders.
-
Identify the role of each stakeholder.
-
Identify the interests of each stakeholder.
Review Principles of Project Management
Show steps
Reviewing the principles of project management will help reinforce your understanding of the important concepts that will be covered in this course.
Browse courses on
Project Management
Show steps
-
Read through your notes from a previous course on project management.
-
Take practice quizzes or exams on project management concepts.
Review the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide)
Show steps
Reviewing the PMBOK® Guide will help you learn the latest best practices in project management.
View
Risk Management in Portfolios, Programs, and...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read through the PMBOK® Guide.
-
Take practice quizzes or exams on the PMBOK® Guide.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Participate in a Study Group
Show steps
Participating in a study group will allow you to discuss the course material with other students and get help with any concepts that you are struggling with.
Show steps
-
Find a study group that is appropriate for your learning style.
-
Attend study group meetings regularly.
-
Participate in discussions and ask questions.
Follow a Tutorial on Project Planning
Show steps
Following a tutorial on project planning will help you gain a better understanding of the process of planning a project.
Show steps
-
Search for a tutorial on project planning that is appropriate for your skill level.
-
Follow the steps in the tutorial to create a project plan for a project of your choice.
Attend a Project Management Networking Event
Show steps
Attending a project management networking event will allow you to meet other project managers and learn about new project management trends and technologies.
Show steps
-
Find a project management networking event in your area.
-
Register for the event.
-
Attend the event and network with other attendees.
Create a Project Charter
Show steps
Creating a project charter will help you define the scope of your project and identify the stakeholders.
Show steps
-
Identify the project sponsor and stakeholders.
-
Define the project goals and objectives.
-
Develop a project scope statement.
-
Create a project budget.
-
Develop a project timeline.
Attend a Workshop on Project Management
Show steps
Attending a workshop on project management will allow you to learn from experts in the field and get hands-on experience with project management tools and techniques.
Show steps
-
Find a workshop on project management that is appropriate for your skill level.
-
Register for the workshop.
-
Attend the workshop and participate in the activities.
Start a Project of Your Own
Show steps
Starting a project of your own will allow you to apply the skills you have learned in this course and gain real-world experience in project management.
Show steps
-
Choose a project that you are passionate about.
-
Develop a project plan.
-
Execute your project plan.
-
Monitor and control your project.
-
Close your project.
Practice Identifying Project Stakeholders
Show steps
Practicing identifying project stakeholders will help you develop the skills you need to identify the people who will be affected by your project.
Browse courses on
Project Stakeholders
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a list of project stakeholders.
- Identify the role of each stakeholder.
- Identify the interests of each stakeholder.
Review Principles of Project Management
Show steps
Reviewing the principles of project management will help reinforce your understanding of the important concepts that will be covered in this course.
Browse courses on
Project Management
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read through your notes from a previous course on project management.
- Take practice quizzes or exams on project management concepts.
Review the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide)
Show steps
Reviewing the PMBOK® Guide will help you learn the latest best practices in project management.
View
Risk Management in Portfolios, Programs, and...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read through the PMBOK® Guide.
- Take practice quizzes or exams on the PMBOK® Guide.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Participate in a Study Group
Show steps
Participating in a study group will allow you to discuss the course material with other students and get help with any concepts that you are struggling with.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a study group that is appropriate for your learning style.
- Attend study group meetings regularly.
- Participate in discussions and ask questions.
Follow a Tutorial on Project Planning
Show steps
Following a tutorial on project planning will help you gain a better understanding of the process of planning a project.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for a tutorial on project planning that is appropriate for your skill level.
- Follow the steps in the tutorial to create a project plan for a project of your choice.
Attend a Project Management Networking Event
Show steps
Attending a project management networking event will allow you to meet other project managers and learn about new project management trends and technologies.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a project management networking event in your area.
- Register for the event.
- Attend the event and network with other attendees.
Create a Project Charter
Show steps
Creating a project charter will help you define the scope of your project and identify the stakeholders.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the project sponsor and stakeholders.
- Define the project goals and objectives.
- Develop a project scope statement.
- Create a project budget.
- Develop a project timeline.
Attend a Workshop on Project Management
Show steps
Attending a workshop on project management will allow you to learn from experts in the field and get hands-on experience with project management tools and techniques.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a workshop on project management that is appropriate for your skill level.
- Register for the workshop.
- Attend the workshop and participate in the activities.
Start a Project of Your Own
Show steps
Starting a project of your own will allow you to apply the skills you have learned in this course and gain real-world experience in project management.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a project that you are passionate about.
- Develop a project plan.
- Execute your project plan.
- Monitor and control your project.
- Close your project.
Career center
Learners who complete Initiating and Planning Projects will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Project Manager
Project Manager
The Project Manager's role is to ensure the successful initiation and implementation of projects. They are responsible for developing and managing project plans, budgets, and schedules. They also work closely with stakeholders to manage their expectations and ensure that projects are completed on time and on budget. The Initiating and Planning Projects course can help build a foundation for a career in project management by providing participants with a comprehensive overview of the project management process, including project planning, stakeholder management, and risk management.
Program Manager
Program Manager
Program Managers are responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of multiple projects. They work with project managers to ensure that projects are aligned with the organization's strategic goals and that they are completed successfully. The Initiating and Planning Projects course can help Program Managers build a foundation for a successful career by providing them with a comprehensive overview of the project management process, including project planning, stakeholder management, and risk management.
Business Analyst
Business Analyst
Business Analysts are responsible for analyzing and documenting business requirements. They work with project managers to ensure that projects are aligned with the organization's needs. The Initiating and Planning Projects course can help Business Analysts build a foundation for a successful career by providing them with a comprehensive overview of the project management process, including project planning, stakeholder management, and risk management.
Systems Analyst
Systems Analyst
Systems Analysts are responsible for analyzing and designing information systems. They work with project managers to ensure that projects are aligned with the organization's IT strategy. The Initiating and Planning Projects course can help Systems Analysts build a foundation for a successful career by providing them with a comprehensive overview of the project management process, including project planning, stakeholder management, and risk management.
Consultant
Consultant
Consultants provide advice and guidance to organizations on a variety of topics, including project management. They work with project managers to help them improve their project management practices. The Initiating and Planning Projects course can help Consultants build a foundation for a successful career by providing them with a comprehensive overview of the project management process, including project planning, stakeholder management, and risk management.
Project Coordinator
Project Coordinator
Project Coordinators assist project managers with the day-to-day management of projects. They are responsible for tasks such as scheduling meetings, taking minutes, and tracking project progress. The Initiating and Planning Projects course can help Project Coordinators build a foundation for a successful career by providing them with a comprehensive overview of the project management process, including project planning, stakeholder management, and risk management.
Product Manager
Product Manager
Product Managers are responsible for the development and launch of new products. They work with project managers to ensure that products are developed on time, within budget, and according to the organization's strategic goals. The Initiating and Planning Projects course can help Product Managers build a foundation for a successful career by providing them with a comprehensive overview of the project management process, including project planning, stakeholder management, and risk management.
Operations Manager
Operations Manager
Operations Managers are responsible for the day-to-day operations of an organization. They work with project managers to ensure that projects are aligned with the organization's operational goals. The Initiating and Planning Projects course can help Operations Managers build a foundation for a successful career by providing them with a comprehensive overview of the project management process, including project planning, stakeholder management, and risk management.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers are responsible for developing and implementing marketing campaigns. They work with project managers to ensure that marketing campaigns are aligned with the organization's marketing goals. The Initiating and Planning Projects course can help Marketing Managers build a foundation for a successful career by providing them with a comprehensive overview of the project management process, including project planning, stakeholder management, and risk management.
Sales Manager
Sales Manager
Sales Managers are responsible for the sales and marketing of products and services. They work with project managers to ensure that sales campaigns are aligned with the organization's sales goals. The Initiating and Planning Projects course can help Sales Managers build a foundation for a successful career by providing them with a comprehensive overview of the project management process, including project planning, stakeholder management, and risk management.
Financial Analyst
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts are responsible for analyzing and interpreting financial data. They work with project managers to ensure that projects are financially feasible. The Initiating and Planning Projects course may be useful for Financial Analysts who want to build a foundation in project management. The course can help them understand the project management process, including project planning, stakeholder management, and risk management.
Human Resources Manager
Human Resources Manager
Human Resources Managers are responsible for the management of human resources within an organization. They work with project managers to ensure that projects are staffed with the right people. The Initiating and Planning Projects course may be useful for Human Resources Managers who want to build a foundation in project management. The course can help them understand the project management process, including project planning, stakeholder management, and risk management.
Information Technology Manager
Information Technology Manager
Information Technology Managers are responsible for the management of information technology within an organization. They work with project managers to ensure that projects are aligned with the organization's IT strategy. The Initiating and Planning Projects course may be useful for Information Technology Managers who want to build a foundation in project management. The course can help them understand the project management process, including project planning, stakeholder management, and risk management.
Chief Executive Officer
Chief Executive Officer
Chief Executive Officers are responsible for the overall management of an organization. They work with project managers to ensure that projects are aligned with the organization's strategic goals. The Initiating and Planning Projects course may be useful for Chief Executive Officers who want to build a foundation in project management. The course can help them understand the project management process, including project planning, stakeholder management, and risk management.
Chief Financial Officer
Chief Financial Officer
Chief Financial Officers are responsible for the management of an organization's finances. They work with project managers to ensure that projects are financially feasible. The Initiating and Planning Projects course may be useful for Chief Financial Officers who want to build a foundation in project management. The course can help them understand the project management process, including project planning, stakeholder management, and risk management.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/7kk3h7/initiating
Reading list
We've selected 16 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Initiating and Planning Projects.
The PMBOK Guide is the most comprehensive and widely recognized reference for project managers. It provides a detailed overview of the project management process, including best practices and industry standards. is an essential resource for anyone who wants to learn more about project management.
Save
Great resource for anyone who is preparing for the PMP exam. It covers all of the topics that are tested on the exam and it is written in a clear and concise style.
Great read for anyone who wants to learn more about the art of project management. It covers the human side of project management, including team dynamics, communication, and conflict resolution. This book good choice for anyone who wants to learn more about how to be a successful project manager.
Save
Comprehensive overview of project management. It covers all aspects of project management, from planning and scheduling to controlling and closing. This book good choice for anyone who wants to learn more about project management.
Project managers often need to have crucial conversations, which are difficult conversations that can have a significant impact on the project. provides a framework for having crucial conversations in a constructive and productive way.
Popularized the term "Lean Startup" and must-read for understanding the principles and practices of Lean project management. It provides valuable insights into how to build a successful product or service.
Save
Negotiation is an essential skill for project managers. provides a proven method for negotiating agreements that are fair and beneficial to all parties.
Classic on the subject of personal and professional effectiveness. It provides a framework for developing the habits that will help you achieve your goals and live a more fulfilling life.
Provides a quick reference guide to 100 tools for improving quality and speed. It valuable resource for project managers who want to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their projects.
Great introduction to project management for beginners. It covers the basics of project management, including planning, scheduling, budgeting, and risk management. This book good choice for anyone who wants to learn more about project management without getting too overwhelmed.
Effective project management often requires strong interpersonal skills and being able to build trust with clients and team members. classic on the subject of building trust and provides practical advice on how to be a trusted advisor.
Save
Vulnerability is essential for building trust and creating a high-performing team. provides insights into the power of vulnerability and how to embrace it.
Emotional intelligence is essential for successful project management. provides a framework for developing emotional intelligence and using it to improve your leadership and interpersonal skills.
Save
Great introduction to agile project management. It covers the basics of agile, including the agile manifesto, the agile development process, and agile tools and techniques. This book good choice for anyone who wants to learn more about agile project management.
Provides insights into why large organizations often fail to innovate and how to overcome the challenges of innovation.
Save
Motivation is essential for successful project management. provides insights into what motivates people and how to create a motivating work environment.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/7kk3h7/initiating
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Effort
4 weeks of study, 2-3 hours/week
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of California, Irvine
Instructor
Margaret Meloni, MBA, PMP
Language
English
Transcripts
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Good to know
Covers a range of foundational concepts in project management, making it a well-rounded starting point
Taught by instructors with experience and credentials in project management delivery and instruction
Designed as a first step in a specialization and can form part of a structured learning pathway
Provides a preliminary foundation for industry-recognized credentials (PMP)
Emphasizes planning, a crucial aspect often inadequately addressed in real-world projects
Course requires learners to engage with pre-existing knowledge in the field
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