Project Management is the application of processes, skills, knowledge and resources to achieve the objective of a project within the given constraints, including time, budget and manpower. Project management has a particular goal in a specified time and budget. Whilst “management” is an ongoing administrative process, “project management” has a limited time span.
Virtual Project Management (VPM) is the organization of a project with all the manpower working remotely. VPM follows the same principles as that of regular Project Management, but the settings are different. When you are working with people scattered across the globe, the challenges for Project Management increase. Working in different time zones and not having face-to-face contacts are just a few of the many challenges that VPM faces.
With the current pandemic, VPM is becoming an important role in the Virtual Assistant industry. With the growing numbers of business jumping on the e-commerce wagon, it is imperative to have a good VPM team.
TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL VIRTUAL PROJECT MANAGEMENT
- SET REASONABLE EXPECTATIONS AND DEADLINES
As much as we want to keep the project on track, there will always be a hiccup that may affect the schedule and the budget. When planning a project, set reasonable expectations. Always keep tabs on each member of the team and take into consideration the unexpected circumstances that may happen. A good Virtual Project Manager is flexible and can adapt to the challenges of the project.
- KEEP AN OPEN COMMUNICATION
Always make sure that the communication between the member of the team is open. Set a regular weekly meeting to keep track of the progress of the team. This is also the time where the Virtual Project Manager assesses the status of the project based on the progress report from the staff.
- LISTEN TO FEEDBACK
Having open communication with the member of the team create an atmosphere of trust and confidence amongst all the members of the team. This can encourage the members of the team to be open to speak out new ideas or constructive criticism that can help improve the system and working relationship.
- BE PROACTIVE
Planning involves risk assessment to help eliminate a problem before it can actually happen. A good Virtual Project Manager can anticipate the issues that may arise in a project. This projection helps the team create a way to avoid these instances to happen.
ADVANTAGES OF GETTING A VIRTUAL PROJECT MANAGER
Virtual project management helps you complete a project at a given time within the given limitations. A good Virtual Project Manager will direct the project and the whole team to a common goal, which is the success of the project. He is able to lead a project and the whole organization by creating a detailed plan that will suit the project.
- Greater Productivity
Having a Virtual Project Manager ensures that all the members of the team are doing their tasks and getting the job done on time. A good Virtual Project Manager knows the strength and weaknesses of each team member. He is able to delegate tasks to each team member knowing that their tasks match their capabilities.
- Higher Employer-Employee Trust Rating
Building trust is important when it comes to working remotely. Since there is no face-to-face contact, it is very important to build trust between the members of the team and the client. A good Virtual Project Manager knows how to handle each member of the team to create a harmonious relationship between the client and the staff. He should be able to represent the team to the client and translate the needs of the client to the team.
- Controlled Environment
A Virtual Project Manager is able to control the whole team remotely. Working in different places and not having face-to-face contact with the members of the team is one challenge that a Virtual Project Manager faces. That is why there are different VPM tool to help the Virtual Project Manager track the progress of the project.
- Ensures the Success of the Project
A good Virtual Project Manager should be able to plan a project from the beginning to the project completion. He should be involved in the whole process from the conception of the project to the planning and organizing of the team. His hands-on attitude is one key to ensure the success of the project. Being involved in the project allows the Virtual Project Manager to anticipate risks and create a solution even before the problem occurs.
Having a reliable Virtual Project Management team can lead to the success of the project. We at Online Assist Pro offers a holistic approach to project management. From the identification of the project to completion. Our highly trained professionals can make sure that the goal of every project is achieved.
