Book Review: The Art of Project Management

The Art of Project Management
By Scott Berkun
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Publisher: O'Reilly
Pub Date: April 2005
ISBN: 0-596-00786-8
Pages: 392

Synopsis
I have countlessly revisited the information and council that Mr. Berkun has organized within this book. As a former Microsoft team leader, Mr. Berkun provides the reader insight into the day-to-day challenges facing both software and interactive project managers. As noted in the review of the book's features found on Mr. Berkun's website, this key reference book boasts 16 chapters on the critical and common challenges of leading projects and managing teams.

My expectation of the book initially was not high. Often times, these books tend to be overly complicated with formal project management discourse and inpractical examples. I was very surprised with the content's of this book. The book is filled with practical management idems, leadership skills, negotiation tips and more – in a well-written and structured form. “ …it feels like a nice long talk with someone who is being completely honest about the way things work …”, (Chris Campbell, bitdepth.org, June 2005).

“The Art of Project Management” is separated into four distinct sections; how to ensure a project has proper focus and clear priorities (Planning); how to get the most out of meetings (communication); successully accomplishing feature-level design (Design); and what to expect as a project moves from inception to finish (Build and Close-out). Within these sections, Mr. Berkun reveals his thoughts regarding soft-skills. These are the skills exuded by successful Project Managers and are often described elusive and difficult to explain. Mr. Berkun identifies these soft skills, provides contexts where they can be applied, and provides practical day-to-day examples on conflict resolution, leadership, mitigation, and how to close a project successfully.

This book is an excellent reference for most new and even experienced project managers alike. It is must have for your reference library.