Project Management: A Common-Sense Guide to the PMBOK Program, Part Two–Plan and Execution

Although the terms “plan” and “schedule” are at times used interchangeably, they are in fact very different. A complete project plan contains a project schedule—but it also includes much more than that (e.g., risk management, quality management, human resource management, and procurement). These differences have implications for the layman as well as the experienced project manager and have implications for successful project management practice. Additionally, the contents of the project plan have evolved over time as versions of the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) were updated.

Due to this, project plans today include important elements that were not included in project planning in the context of earlier versions of the PMBOK and the execution of the project plan requires guidance beyond that which is outlined in the PMBOK framework. The PMBOK emphasizes planning and monitoring and controlling—but very little support is provided for project executing. This begs the question, just what does it mean to execute a project plan? This book clarifies the differences between plans and schedules, takes the project manager through the process of plan development, and finally, points the way toward successful project execution.

Dr. James W. Marion, PMP, is an assistant professor with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide. He is currently the discipline chair and assistant professor of project management and the program chair of the MS in engineering management program. His experience includes leading large organizations in multiple product launches in the United States, Europe, and Asia, as well as significant experience with Japanese companies including NEC and Panasonic. Dr. Marion has a PhD in organization and management with a specialization in information technology management from Capella University. He holds an MS in engineering from University of Wisconsin-Platteville, and a MSc and an MBA in strategic planning as well as a postgraduate certificate in business research methods from The Edinburgh Business School of Heriot-Watt University. Dr. Marion is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP).