As mechanical engineers, we are involved in a wide variety of industrial development activities, from design of components, equipment, systems or facilities through various phases of manufacturing, construction or operation. In the context of business, we apply our skills to help our organizations provide a competitive benefit or develop a solution to a unique challenge.

"Houston, Tranquility Base here, the Eagle has landed." These words of astronaut Neil Armstrong demonstrate not only the technical achievements of 20th Century America, but also the successful application of a complex project management process.

Any development activity ("project") requires that unique tasks be performed, resources allocated, and a time frame established. In order that all involved apply their talents in the best ways and at the appropriate times, it is generally necessary to implement some form of project management.

All projects that contain multiple tasks and/or involve multiple resources are candidates for project management techniques. This module will introduce you to the basic principles, concepts, and tools for managing a project. While this module demonstrates a business application of project management, the same principles apply to managing multi-task school or personal projects. Understanding how to do a schedule IS a critical success factor in project management. It can't be delegated to a specialist unless there is a basic understanding of the principles and the ever-changing critical issues on a project.

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