Managing Technology Projects for Business Success

University of London via Coursera

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Overview

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The emphasis of this course is on introducing a notion of that there are no Information Technology (IT) projects, only business projects. It offers an exploration of project management within the business environment, equipping learners with both the theoretical foundations and the practical skills necessary for managing successful projects. This course provides learners with a structured and comprehensive introduction to the principles and practices of IT Project Management, combining theory with real-world application across five progressive weeks. This course Learners will develop a solid understanding of the core principles of IT project management, learning how these principles underpin the structure and flow of projects across different industries. Key topics include traditional methodologies such as Waterfall and contemporary approaches like Agile, including an examination of the 12 Agile principles and the role of Scrum in modern project delivery. The course covers the project lifecycle, from initiation through execution to closure. Learners will explore critical stages such as defining scope, identifying stakeholders, managing resources, and reflecting on lessons learned. The importance of project constraints, which often referred to as the ’iron triangle’ of scope, time, and cost, is analysed alongside stakeholder satisfaction, which is increasingly recognised as a fourth essential dimension. The course further develops learners’ ability to evaluate and manage risks, enhance team communication, and apply key planning tools. Practical skills are honed through tasks such as milestone vs. deadline planning and preparing presentations for team or managerial audiences. Emphasis is placed on the application of project management skills in information technology (IT) settings, introducing learners to the unique challenges and perspectives relevant to tech-based projects. During the course, learners will be acquiring the skills to plan, manage, and evaluate projects effectively. They will become capable of making informed decisions, adapting to dynamic challenges, and leading project teams with insight and professionalism. The course fosters critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills which are essential for anyone aspiring to drive successful project outcomes in today’s complex business world. By the end of the course, learners will be able to Demonstrate a critical understanding of Information Technology (IT) project management principles, methodologies, and lifecycle stages. Evaluate project constraints, risks, and success factors to enhance project performance. Apply project planning, execution, and evaluation skills using appropriate tools and techniques. Analyse the roles of stakeholders, governance, and organisational context in project success.

Syllabus

Introduction to project management in business

Week 1 focuses on the essential principles of IT project management. It highlights the common reasons for project failures, such as unclear objectives, poor communication, inadequate planning, resistance to change, and scope management issues. Throughout the week, you will engage with key concepts such as the definition of success in IT projects, the impact of emerging technologies on project delivery, and the need for adaptive and informed decision-making in a fast-evolving business landscape. By the end of Week 1, you will have developed a foundational understanding of how project management practices contribute to strategic business outcomes and the unique role that technology plays in shaping project dynamics. You will engage in reflective activities and study journal exercises to analyse personal experiences and understand the iron triangle (scope, time, cost), along with examples of successful projects that broke these constraints.

Methodologies in project management in business

Week 2 focuses on the IT project management methodology with a particular emphasis on understanding Agile.   The week begins by discussing the importance of project life cycles and explaining various project management methods such as Waterfall, Agile and Scrum.

The project phases: Initiation, planning, execution and closure

In Week 3, you explore the four essential phases of the IT project lifecycle, i.e. initiation, planning, execution, and closure, to understand how each contributes to a project's success. The week highlights the value of a structured and strategic approach to project management. By the end of the week, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of all four phases and how to apply best practices to deliver successful, value-driven projects.

Strategic aspects of project management in business

In Week 4, the focus expands from hands-on IT project execution to the strategic dimensions of project management within information technology contexts. You will explore how project managers' function is not only as team leaders and delivery overseers but also as key actors within broader organisational systems that shape project outcomes. Another major theme in this week is the distinction between stakeholders and governance. The week concludes with an overview of five key perspectives on information technology, encouraging you to view IT projects through a wider strategic lens.

Case study: Analysis of project failure

Week 5 focuses on integrating the concepts learned throughout the course by analysing a case study. This final week emphasises the key factors influencing the success of project management, such as strong leadership, clear goals, stakeholder engagement, effective communication, risk management, resource allocation and adaptability. It also includes comprehensive case study examples of IT project failures to illustrate the practical application of these concepts.