Management by Project vs. Project Manager

Attribute	Management by Project	Project Manager
Definition	Organizational approach where projects are the primary focus	Individual responsible for planning, executing, and closing a project
Role	Organizational strategy	Individual position
Focus	Project outcomes and objectives	Project execution and team management
Responsibilities	Overall project success and alignment with organizational goals	Team leadership, resource management, and stakeholder communication
Scope	Broader organizational perspective	Specific project deliverables

Definition

Management by Project is a method of organizing work within an organization where projects are the primary unit of work. This approach focuses on the completion of specific projects and the achievement of project goals. Project Manager, on the other hand, refers to an individual who is responsible for planning, executing, and closing a project. The Project Manager is in charge of overseeing the project team and ensuring that the project is completed on time and within budget.

Responsibilities

In Management by Project, the responsibility for the success of a project is shared among the project team members. Each team member is accountable for their specific tasks and deliverables. The project team works collaboratively to achieve the project goals. In contrast, the Project Manager has overall responsibility for the project. The Project Manager is accountable for the project's success or failure and must make decisions to ensure that the project is completed successfully.

Authority

Under Management by Project, authority is distributed among the project team members. Each team member has the authority to make decisions related to their specific tasks and responsibilities. The project team works together to make decisions and solve problems. In contrast, the Project Manager has the authority to make decisions for the entire project. The Project Manager has the final say on project-related matters and is responsible for ensuring that the project stays on track.

Communication

In Management by Project, communication is key to the success of the project. Project team members must communicate effectively with each other to ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goals. Regular communication and collaboration are essential in Management by Project. The Project Manager plays a crucial role in facilitating communication among team members and stakeholders. The Project Manager must ensure that information is shared effectively and that any issues or concerns are addressed promptly.

Decision Making

Decision making in Management by Project is a collaborative process. Project team members work together to make decisions that impact the project. Each team member brings their expertise and perspective to the decision-making process. The Project Manager plays a role in guiding the decision-making process and ensuring that decisions align with the project goals. The Project Manager may also make final decisions when consensus cannot be reached. In contrast, the Project Manager has the authority to make decisions for the project. The Project Manager is responsible for making decisions that will move the project forward and ensure its success.

Flexibility

Management by Project allows for greater flexibility in how work is organized and executed. Projects can be tailored to meet the specific needs of the organization and the project team. Project team members have the flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances and make adjustments as needed. The Project Manager must be flexible and able to adapt to changes in the project environment. The Project Manager must be able to make quick decisions and adjustments to ensure that the project stays on track.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Management by Project and Project Manager are two approaches to managing projects within an organization. Management by Project focuses on organizing work around projects, with shared responsibility and authority among project team members. The Project Manager, on the other hand, is an individual responsible for overseeing the entire project and making decisions to ensure its success. Both approaches have their strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between them will depend on the specific needs and goals of the organization.