Objectives

The aim of the course is to introduce the student to the work of an IS project manager. Upon completion of the course, the student is able to:

1. analyze tasks, responsibilities and associated professional competences of a project manager in IS projects. (know what)
2. identify the individual foundational competences and dispositions required from a good project manager and ways with which project managers acquire such competences. (know how)
3. compare strengths and weaknesses of agile and traditional methods, and describe approaches that combine elements from both methods. (know how)
4. describe capabilities needed from team members and leaders in multicultural virtual project teams. (know how)
5. analyze reasons for IS project success and failure and the degree to which project manager can be held responsible for a project failure. (know why)

Overall, the student becomes aware of the diversity and complexity of IS projects. S/he is aware of project managers' tasks and responsibilities, and how they vary depending on the unique challenges in each project. A student is also aware of the role played by his/her individual foundational competences and dispositions, thus improving student's personal assessment of whether they want to become a project manager. Overall, the course aims to improve students' professional and individual competences in successfully managing IS projects. For students not aiming to become project managers, the course improves recognition of the critical and often difficult role that a project manager has in an IS project.
  • Opettaja
    Hannu Salmela