Project management is a common term in many industries. For the KimbleCo team it means managing the interior build-out or tenant improvement process in a commercial building or, combined with development services, the management of a ground-up new building project. It especially means that the desired outcome is meeting or exceeding the goals of the tenant or building owner (our client).
The Project Management Institute defines the six stages of project management: initiating, planning, executing, monitoring and controlling, and closing.
Choosing an expert project manager can be quite the task. When looking for the perfect fit to match your needs, consider the following:
Knowledge of the market and benchmarks along with a thorough understanding of the project scope and ability to source resources
Ability to establish the best team for the project. Is she/he able to invite the right design professionals, contractors and consultants suitable for the scope? Can they run clear, objective and efficient RFP or negotiated processes to establish the team? Are they able to negotiate contracts that will deliver on client goals?
Effective overall project monitoring and management to desired schedule and budget (or better yet, ahead of schedule/under budget)
Communication and tracking tools that are clear, concise and relevant. Project managers must possess excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively manage a varied group of professionals, each with their individual areas of expertise. This includes adequate follow-through during the project and especially at completion to ensure absolute closure of all project details
Other key attributes of a project manager include:
Excellent communication skills, verbal and written
Critical thinking ability
Active listening ability
Analytical skills
Ability to identify and manage risk
Planning and organizational skills
Understanding of project interdependencies
Team building and collaboration
Problem solving
Ability to use scheduling and budgetary tools
Core values play a role
We believe core values play a role in everything we do. For KimbleCo our core values of integrity and transparency and communication are foundational to project management. Our core value of excellence is especially important as it allows us to continue to improve and build upon experience. Every project requires a thorough assessment at completion, collecting objective and truthful input from all of the team members including our client. What went well, what were the lessons learned, what could we do better the next time? We love to build upon a past project to make the next one even better.
How to select your project manager
You want experience and leadership; an active and engaged project manager not an administrative note taker. Some project managers are credentialed through the Project Management Institute and may have a Project Management Professional (‘PMP”) designation. Whether or not they have a certification, do your research, check references and make sure the project manager you select has successfully completed similar projects in the past.
Select a project manager with core values that line up with yours. Make sure there is a cultural fit along with the right technical experience and skills. Building a strong relationship with your project manager means that projects to come have the opportunity to be even better and more seamless.