Project Management Courses

Project management is an essential part of an effective business. It provides leadership, increases efficiency and productivity within a workplace, and helps an organisation grow. An effective and skilled leader is needed to manage projects and teams successfully, and a career in project management is the perfect choice to utilise your leadership skills.

A project management course teaches the skills and technical knowledge necessary to be a successful project manager. A project manager will need to be skilled in people management as well as have an awareness of the needs of the business.

Studying a project management course at CAL will provide you with the tools and expertise needed to thrive as a successful project manager and step into a new leadership position.

Study Project Management Online

Experienced project managers are always in high demand as their roles are complex and touch many areas of business. Project managers are some of the highest-earning professionals in the world. A project management course at CAL can fast-track you into a career in this lucrative role.

Project management is a life skill and highly transferable – the skills you learn in a project management course at CAL can be applied to almost every industry, such as IT, transport and infrastructure, finance, and corporate business arenas.

Project management is also essential for a career in building and construction. A Diploma of Project Management (Specialising in Construction) (BSB50820) will see you gain industry-relevant expertise and the confidence to go straight into a senior role in project management.

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Diploma of

Project Management (Specialising in Construction)

BSB50820

Designed for those wanting to specialise in construction and move into senior construction project management positions. You'll develop skills to become an effective building and construction project manager with in-demand construction contract development and project management know-how in this online course.

Delivery

100% Online Learning

Duration

Approx 15-17 months part-time

Approx 12 months full-time

Outcomes

Construction Project Manager$125,000

Construction Foreman$135,000

Project Manager$101,000

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Diploma of

Project Management

BSB50820

The Diploma of Project Management online has been designed in consultation with industry experts to develop skills for dealing with time and cost constraints to managing human resources and communicating with stakeholders.

Delivery

100% Online Learning

Duration

Approx 14-16 months part-time

Approx 12 months full-time

Outcomes

Senior Project Administrator$86,000

Project Manager $101,000

Risk Manager$119,000

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Learn more
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Certificate IV in

Project Management Practice

BSB40920

This project management course has been designed to develop skills for dealing with time and cost constraints to managing human resources and communicating with stakeholders.

Delivery

100% Online Learning

Duration

Approx 10-12 months part-time

Approx 8 months full-time

Outcomes

Project Coordinator$65,000

Senior Project Administrator$72,000

Contract Administrator$66,000

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Learn more
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Diploma of

Project Management (Specialising in Construction)

BSB50820

Designed for those wanting to specialise in construction and move into senior construction project management positions. You'll develop skills to become an effective building and construction project manager with in-demand construction contract development and project management know-how in this online course.

Delivery

100% Online Learning

Duration

Approx 15-17 months part-time

Approx 12 months full-time

Outcomes

Construction Project Manager$125,000

Construction Foreman$135,000

Project Manager$101,000

Read More
Learn more
logo-back logo-back
Diploma of

Project Management

BSB50820

The Diploma of Project Management online has been designed in consultation with industry experts to develop skills for dealing with time and cost constraints to managing human resources and communicating with stakeholders.

Delivery

100% Online Learning

Duration

Approx 14-16 months part-time

Approx 12 months full-time

Outcomes

Senior Project Administrator$86,000

Project Manager $101,000

Risk Manager$119,000

Read More
Learn more
logo-back
Certificate IV in

Project Management Practice

BSB40920

This project management course has been designed to develop skills for dealing with time and cost constraints to managing human resources and communicating with stakeholders.

Delivery

100% Online Learning

Duration

Approx 10-12 months part-time

Approx 8 months full-time

Outcomes

Project Coordinator$65,000

Senior Project Administrator$72,000

Contract Administrator$66,000

Read More
Learn more

AIPM-Endorsed Diploma

CAL has received endorsement for our Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820) and Diploma of Project Management (specialising in Construction) (BSB50820) courses from the Australian Institute of Project Management (AIPM), the premier, longest-serving body for project management in Australia.

Having passed a rigorous review by AIPM auditors, adding an AIPM-endorsed diploma to your repertoire demonstrates your commitment to project management professional development and the elevation of industry practices.

AIPM Memberships for CAL Students

We're excited to offer students studying the Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820) or the Diploma of Project Management (specialising in Construction) (BSB50820) with CAL a FREE one-year AIPM Student Membership.

Australian Institute of Project Management (AIPM) is the premier, longest-serving body for project management in Australia. AIPM is made up of nearly 8000 project professionals, across Australia and internationally.

As an AIPM Member, you'll enjoy:

  • Access to largest most exclusive online community of project managers
  • Certification and Industry recognition at a Certified Practising Project Practitioner (CPPP) level
  • Online access to project management resources and templates
  • Access to career opportunities through personalised and curated online jobs marketplace
  • Invitation to exclusive member-only events
  • Events and webinars at discounted rates

Frequently Asked Questions about Project Management

What is a Project Management course?

A Project Management course teaches you the processes used to manage projects successfully. It equips you with the tools, techniques, and skills you’ll need to deliver projects within the defined limits and as required by the organisation.

A Project Management course will also teach you the technical and soft skills needed for the role, such as:

  • how to effectively manage the different stakeholders
  • how to deal with time and cost restrictions
  • how to use software available to help project managers keep track of every aspect of a project
What is the best Project Management course in Australia?

The best Project Management course should create real outcomes that match industry needs, while fitting around your life.

The Project Management courses at the College for Adult Learning are developed with industry experts, accredited, and recognised by industry professionals. We provide the best Project Management courses by creating real outcomes that meet employers’ expectations.

Our courses are tailored to your learning style and fit your needs and busy life. We provide our courses online so you get the added advantage of studying anywhere, anytime. Gain experience while studying and fast-track your career.

What skills will I learn in a Project Management course?

A Project Management course will prepare you with a range of skills to go into an entry-level or senior-level position, depending on your qualification.  You will learn a variety of practical and personal skills, such as:

  • people management strategies
  • stakeholder engagement
  • managing procurement
  • facilitating continuous improvement
  • communicating with influence
Do you need a Project Management course to become a Project Manager?

You typically need a formal qualification such as a Diploma to become a Project Manager in Australia. Project Management certification is valued by employers, along with experience in your relevant industry.

A Certificate qualification will give you the basic skills and knowledge to work in an entry-level position and prepare you to work as part of a team. A Diploma can further hone your existing skills and experience, advance your career, and see you leading teams and managing larger-scale projects.

How long does a Project Management course take?

A Diploma course can take approximately 12 months to complete if studying full-time, Certificate IV courses can be as short as 10 months full-time, while you should expect around 18 months to complete an Advanced Diploma.

The duration of your qualification is also dependent on how many hours you put in each week to study, however at CAL all students are offered a generous 24-month enrolment period to complete their Project Management qualifications at their own pace.

Can I study a Project Management course online?

Project Management courses are a perfect fit for online and self-paced study. By learning at your own pace, you’re not held back by the speed of the classroom and you have the freedom to pause and pick up your studies around your own schedule.

Whether you’re looking to upskill, change career or kick start a new pathway, studying Project Management online is a smart choice to earn the practical skills you need to excel paired with the flexibility to study when and where it suits you.

Do you need to study a Project Management course to become a Project Administrator?

Getting a Project Administrator role in the project management industry is a key first step in your career. Studying a Project Management course will give you the foundation skills you need to kickstart your career and apply practical skills like the planning and execution of tasks to meet deadlines, and strong communication skills, straight into your job.

With a few years experience, the right set of hands-on skills and a recognised Project Management qualification, you can look to make the move into becoming a Project Manager, or other managerial roles in the industry.

Your future in Project Management

A project management career is a challenging, but deeply rewarding choice for those ready to upskill and step into a senior role. Becoming a project management professional will see you overseeing and managing entire projects to ensure they meet deadlines and standards.

To succeed in a career in project management, you’ll need interpersonal skills such as people management and communication. Project management also suits those with strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills. These skills will set you apart from employers and see you succeed in your new role.

A qualification in project management is your first step to gaining these valuable skills and finding yourself on the right career path. A project management qualification will lead you into roles across industries. Find out where a career in project management can take you.

Discover your future here

About Project Management

contract administrator v project coordinator

Contract Administrator vs Project Manager Career Paths

The construction industry is filled with job and growth opportunities for a range of careers and roles. With an expected growth of 5.8% and 1,388,500 construction jobs in Australia by 2026, becoming a contract administrator or project manager will set you up to be in two of the most highly sought-after construction jobs now and in the coming years. If you’ve worked on a construction site before, you’ve probably come across both a contract administrator and a project manager. Both these jobs follow different career paths, but both offer long-term success for those ready to ‘get off the tools’ while remaining in construction. What does a contract administrator do? A contract administrator oversees the planning, negotiation and delivery of contracts on construction projects. They are responsible for ensuring that contracts are properly drafted and executed by both parties. Contract administrators also negotiate contracts with project managers and stakeholders, ensure the obligations within it have been met, and often oversee the delivery of goods and services relating to the contract. Contract administrators can travel too – they may travel out to each site to negotiate with subcontractors, oversee worksites to ensure they are meeting contract obligations, and work with a team right up until project completion. Skills required for contract administration There are a handful of interpersonal, professional, and ‘hands-on’ skills that are required to be a contract administrator. Some of these will come from your own experience, and many can be learned through a formal contract administration qualification. The top skills required for a successful career in contract administration are: Strong knowledge of the construction industry Literacy skills Financial understanding of construction costs Understanding of legal codes relating to construction workplaces Communication and interpersonal skills Problem-solving Stakeholder management Your Career in Construction Management Do you want to learn more about construction management skills employers demand, emerging job roles and salaries, and recent industry insights?  Discover your career in construction management.  CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT CAREER PAGE How to become a contract administrator If contract administration sounds like the right pathway for you, there are options available to ensure you set yourself up for success. Contract administrators need a good understanding of how construction sites work, which is why many of them already work in construction. Along with construction experience, a formal qualification such as CAL’s Certificate IV in Building Project Support (Contract Administrator) (CPC40320) will equip you with the skills you need to succeed in this career path. In this certificate IV, you will learn how to: Identify, analyse and prepare construction contracts and plans Apply building codes and standards to the construction process Arrange building applications and approvals This course is completely online and self-paced, making it perfect for those already working and allowing you to work and gain further experience while you study. With both experience and a formal qualification, a contract administrator can expect to have a salary of $120,000 a year. This role is also projected to grow by 8.8% over the next five years, making it a ‘safe’ long-term option. What does a project manager do? As a project manager, you will coordinate the work of various tradespeople on a building project. You will also communicate with them and keep them informed of progress. A project manager must keep records of everything that happens during the project. This includes who did what, when, how much was spent, and any other details that track and pertain to the project. Communication between the project manager, teams and stakeholders is essential to ensure that everyone knows what needs to happen next. If there are any issues, they need to be resolved as soon as possible so that the project can continue smoothly. Download our FREE 'Your Career in Building and Construction Management' Guide Find the latest information in our eBook about a career in construction management, including current job opportunities, skills you need, salary information and more. DOWNLOAD MY FREE GUIDE Skills required for project managers Many skills that make up a great project manager are picked up from experience in the construction industry and from a formal qualification. The top skills required for a successful career as a project coordinator are: Sound knowledge of the construction industry Strong leadership ability Understanding of IT and construction software Time management skills Planning and organisational skills Problem-solving Soft skills such as great communication and interpersonal skills are vital for project managers, as liaising with team members and stakeholders is a significant part of this job. Communicating effectively to get a project completed to standard and on time are skills within leaders that will allow them to manage well and succeed in project management. How to become a project manager If project management is the right choice for you, you can take the steps now to set yourself up for a rewarding career. Most construction project managers already work in the construction industry, as they need a good amount of knowledge on how construction sites work and need to be managed. Along with experience, CAL’s Certificate IV in Project Management Practice (BSB40920) will afford you the right skills to see you become a successful project coordinator in the construction industry. Through the certificate IV, you will learn how to: Apply project management techniques to ensure projects are finished on time and within budget Manage project human resources to ensure you have the best people for the project Oversee stakeholder engagement to ensure all parties are aware of project requirements and key information CAL’s qualifications are completely online and self-paced, allowing you to work and maintain your job and on-site experience whilst also gaining your qualification. With this qualification and relevant industry experience, project managers in construction can earn a salary of $136,000 a year. The job growth for this role is at an expected 8.8% over the next five years. This makes it a great option for those wanting to find a long-term career. Pathways in the construction industry There are many pathways to ‘off the tools’ jobs in the construction industry that still allow you to work closely to the action. These two career paths are strong choices for those looking for a change while remaining in a growing industry. The construction industry is strong in that it will always be growing and withstanding economic stresses. In Australia, it generates $156 billion in reported gross value added and accounts for 9.6% of our workforce. This makes it a secure career choice for those looking for long-term options. CAL offers pathways into both these construction career options, with the Certificate IV in Project Management Practice (BSB40920) and Certificate IV in Building Project Support (Contract Administrator) (CPC40320). Both will give you the fundamental skills for a thriving career. Discover the perfect course for you Explore the College for Adult Learning's range of courses, across a variety of industries and qualification levels – from certificate IVs to double diplomas, construction management to human resources and leadership. Discover the course that will help you change careers, upskill, get qualified, promote yourself or find your passion.  EXPLORE COURSES

Seven Project Management Trends for 2022

After the tumultuous economic impacts of COVID-19, 2022 is our first chance to see the medium to long-term effects on the workforce. One noticeable trend is that remote project managers have become more the norm, as digital platforms and online spaces become the ‘workplace’ of choice. That’s a joint reflection of cost-cutting, social distancing and a realisation that it is an effective way of doing business. Take a look at the top seven forecasted project management trends below: 1. Technology and leadership in project management There will be a growing need to embrace technology and show leadership. Managing virtual teams will become a highly valuable skill, no more so than in the field of project management. Of course, technology will drive much of this change. Virtual meeting spaces were around before COVID-19, but now they are ubiquitous and becoming more so with every passing week. The project manager who can embrace these platforms and get the most from contractors and staff will be most in demand. After all, there will always be the need for a guiding hand to oversee complex (and often expensive) projects, particularly in an online setting. 2. IT is an essential tool for project managers A project manager’s ability to manage, adapt and integrate new technology or software will be crucial. We have already seen examples of that during the experience of 2020. Managers who seized opportunities to implement new technology that increased productivity and efficiency became the ‘go-to’s’ in a rapidly changing environment. It became clear that even those already in project management needed to become acquainted with the latest developments and do so quickly. The need to embrace technology and not go back to familiar ways still applies in a post-2020 world. 3. Mental fortitude and a strong personality The demands placed on a project manager will be more intense than ever. That alone, apart from all the new challenges, will require strong mental fortitude to juggle the varying tasks and complexities of each project. That might mean a combination of balancing budgets, employees, stakeholders, or clients, within the same hour, with all the added complexities that remote workplaces bring. Project managers need to be resilient enough to handle the varied and often challenging tasks that come with the job. Mental strength and confidence are crucial for anyone hoping to enter a project management leadership position in the years ahead. The best way to ensure confidence is to upskill your knowledge with relevant qualifications. 4. Creating virtual and remote project management teams Until March 2020, remote working was the exception. Now it is very much the rule. Roy Morgan research conducted in June 2020 showed that about one-third of working Australians, or 4.5 million people, transitioned to working from home (WFH) arrangements throughout the year. This has now increased to over 40% of employed people in Australia still working from home regularly into 20221. Of course, remote workers require managing outside of the typical office or construction environment. In many industries, project managers will deal with staff across a wide range of geographical locations and time zones. These remote staff, or freelancers, provide flexibility, time savings, and can help project managers with the resources required to assign tasks for completion. However, they also require careful management. Therefore, a project manager must be ready to put systems and procedures into place that ensure they can closely monitor the progress of work. Download our FREE 'Your Career in Project Management' Guide Find the latest information in our eBook about a career in project management, including current job opportunities, skills you need, salary information and more. DOWNLOAD MY FREE GUIDE 5. Salaries and qualifications in project management in 2022 As is often the case, those who undertake further education will see benefits in terms of their remuneration. Completing a Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820) is no different. Below is a list of anticipated average-to-highest salaries in a variety of project management specialties for 2022. Senior project manager: $141,102 – $195,000 Information technology: $136,312 – $177,594 Construction: $160,000 – $180,000 Engineering: $108,480 – $162,970 Junior project manager (general): $75,000 – $103,000 6. Artificial and data intelligence Pre-2020, the inclusion of artificial and data intelligence in the workplace was already well established. In project management, that trend will increase through 2022 and beyond. It has been reported that the use of artificial technology can increase business productivity by 40%2. Especially during the early stages of projects, such as creating first drafts of programming schedules and risk assessments, their advantages are clear. The automation of tasks such as scheduling and tactical planning are examples of how the project manager’s role will increasingly focus on integrating technology while maintaining crucial human relationships and communications with clients and stakeholders. Add to this the impact of data capture and robotic technology on issues such as social distancing in factory settings, and it becomes clear that the project manager of the future requires the most up-to-date skills and knowledge available in the marketplace. This means that soft skills such as leadership, empathy and communication are even more highly regarded by employers. These will only become more important as businesses start to rely on automation for the technical side of projects. Instead, they will look to employ leaders who have exceptional people management skills, not just traditional project management knowledge. 7. Global project management outlook improves Australia’s project management sector has seen a spike in the job market. That means demand has (and will) significantly increase for these qualified individuals. It has been estimated that between 2017 and 2027, the number of Australian project management jobs will increase by about 100,000, to well over half a million. Other factors might expedite, or even increase, that number. The Australian government is spending billions on infrastructure programs, and billions more on safeguarding career pathways (apprentices, for example). All these projects, and the workers who build them, will require project managers to help oversee the process. Additional trend – flexibility and embracing new tools Where traditionally project managers may have utilised traditional organisational tools like Gantt Charts or Kanban Boards, it is becoming increasingly more popular to embrace new, more agile tools or to use no formal tools at all. The need for flexibility has never been higher, leading to many project managers rejecting traditional approaches in favour of flexible and highly relevant tools that suit their specific industry or project. Using multiple tools and methodologies is becoming the norm across almost all industries. Therefore, successful project managers will need to equip themselves with the skills and knowledge to work with a variety of different tools and ensure their team has the education required to work with these new procedures too. Project management qualifications will broaden your skills With the emergence of new software and the increased impact that Artificial Intelligence will have upon the project management field, it has never been more important for project management professionals to be highly skilled providers of services. Undertaking a Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820) will help create the skills and knowledge required to be competitive in the current marketplace. For the qualified project manager, a Diploma of Leadership and Management (BSB50420) is the next logical step. A diploma or double diploma teaches current information and makes a favourable impression in the recruitment process. AIPM-Endorsed Diploma CAL has received endorsement for our Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820) and Diploma of Project Management (specialising in Construction) (BSB50820) courses from the Australian Institute of Project Management (AIPM), the premier, longest-serving body for project management in Australia. Having passed a rigorous review by AIPM auditors, adding an AIPM-endorsed diploma to your repertoire demonstrates your commitment to project management professional development and the elevation of industry practices. A willingness to embrace new and emerging technologies, particularly by understanding the best way to incorporate new automation systems, is what will set apart the project managers of 2022 and beyond. Those committed to embracing change are most likely to succeed. Increasing your value with a qualification would be a positive way to deal with all the inevitable project management evolutions and trends we will see in 2022. It’s not just a commitment to your profession, but an investment in yourself that will pay dividends now more than ever. Your Career in Project Management Do you want to learn more about project management skills employers demand, emerging job roles and salaries, and recent industry insights?  Discover your career in project management.  PROJECT MANAGEMENT CAREERS PAGE 1Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2022. 2Accenture, 2022. 

Why You Should Apply Your Project Management Skills to Risk Management

Risk management is one of the most important components of a business plan, and the people with these types of skills are incredibly valuable to any industry. It is the complexities of risk management that could decide the success or failure of your business or project. With risk managers fetching an average salary of $118,000 in Australia, it's not hard to see why a career in risk management is a great path to take. Click To Tweet What is risk management? Risk management is the term to describe a process used across many industries. This practice involves the identification, evaluation, and treatment of risks that could impact a project, business, or industry. Risks can stem from a variety of places, including financial uncertainty, legal issues, technological security, data breaches, and strategic errors, to name a few. Other risks may include natural disasters and accidents. However, each of these different risks must be taken into consideration by a business to help ensure their success. Once they have evaluated the risks, they will be able to create a comprehensive risk management plan that will help to mitigate some of the dangers they may face in the future. Skills needed in risk management A variety of skills are required for anyone who wants to be successful when it comes to risk management. Problem-solving: You can never guarantee how risk is going to impact your business or project. Being able to think on your feet to solve a problem when they occur is a valuable skill. Analytical skills: Being able to analyse a situation and all potential outcomes is an essential skill when working in risk management. Communication: Ensuring that every member of your team understands the stakes that come with these risks is necessary when considering this career. Can you communicate well with others? If so, you may be a good candidate. Working under pressure: When the fate of a project or a business is on your shoulders, you will be forgiven for feeling stressed. However, the ability to work through the stress and deal with the unexpected will be crucial. Risk management in project management If you are not yet certain on any one industry you want to enter, a Diploma of Project Management is a perfect overall qualification that can still help you get into risk management. You will be able to study the “Manage Project Risk” course, as well as more broad subjects that can be applied to other industries. For example, you will learn units like: Manage project cost Manage project quality Manage project time Each of these, plus many of the other units offered, will add to your knowledge and skills when it comes to risk management. Not only that, but you will be able to apply them to a broad spectrum of industries and careers, meaning you can tailor your study and education to suit your interests. So what are some of the real risks you might face if you do choose to head down the learning risk management in project management path? Where there have been estimating and scheduling errors, meaning your project has not been given enough time, or there may not be the right amount of funds to complete the job. The purpose and necessity of your project are not well-defined, making getting permits and approvals harder as a result. Contingency plans for natural disasters and accidents. What are you going to do if there are fires? Floods? Hurricanes? If you lose resources? Or materials go missing? Contractor conflict or delays. Everyone on a project must work as part of a team. You need to consider what happens if a contractor is experiencing delays and how it will impact the rest of the project. Lack of communication. This is a dangerous risk that can cause chaos and confusion. If the communication is lacking, messages get blurred, and the project becomes compromised. Risk Management in Construction As with project management, there are a lot of real-life risks that need to be taken into consideration regardless of the industry you choose. As the person who specialises in risk, you are put on a team to ensure plans are made to negate or deal with risks as they arise. For example, risks you may face working in construction include: Realising that materials are not accurately calculated, meaning that more money will need to be spent on additional resources which can lead to budgeting and scheduling conflicts. Physical injuries are incredibly prevalent on constructions sites and need to be managed carefully. Are there systems in place to mitigate falls, injuries, accidents? Have all worksite been adequately checked for gas pipes, water mains, etc.? Is there a plan in place if an item is missed and found later when it might be too late? These are all high-risk scenarios that need to be carefully considered in the day-to-day life of someone who is working in construction risk management. How to get into risk management There are plenty of avenues that you could take to get into risk management. One such way would be to complete a qualification that has an element of risk management tied to it. For example, if you knew you wanted to be in the construction industry, a Diploma of Building & Construction (Management) (CPC50320) is a perfect choice. During your time studying this diploma, there is an entire unit dedicated to risk called “Apply Principles of OHS Risk Management”. If risk management was the area you wanted to specialise in within that industry, there are useful electives you can take such as “Manage Project Risk” that put you a step ahead of other people. Why a Double Diploma is better than a Single Diploma Risk management is emerging as a rewarding and vital career to enter and will be so for a long time to come. Many skills are needed to be successful, like problem-solving, communication, and a strong ability to work under pressure, but these are not unattainable. Through hard work and dedication, you will be able to progress into a career in risk management. Using skills that you gain from choosing a qualification like the Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820), you can apply to any industry with confidence that you will be able to succeed in the field of risk management.  

Best Qualifications Needed to Succeed in the Mining Industry

Succeeding in the mining industry requires project management skills to keep several balls in the air at once. An average day can include tasks like managing large workforces, engaging contractors, sourcing plant and other equipment, keeping a close eye on budgets, and much more. An obvious first step on the path to such a career is a Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820), a Diploma of Building and Construction Management (CPC50320), or both. Management in mining is a very high earning career for good reason, as a talented project manager or construction manager can save an employer from substantial losses on big mining projects through experience, staying calm under pressure, and being pragmatic. With the average worker in the mining industry earning $100,000 or more, it's not hard to see why a management career in this industry is an excellent path to pursue. Click To Tweet Both qualifications are incredibly useful in the mining industry, and a double diploma has the potential to accelerate your earning ability in the mining sphere, where the average worker earns $100,000 per year or more. These qualifications are equally as helpful to those already working in the mining industry as it is to those wanting to join it. So, what’s the next step? Careers in the mining industry The mining industry’s sheer scale means there are dozens of career paths associated with it in Australia. Creating and commissioning an open-cut mine is estimated to cost at least $500 million (and usually far more). This represents an enormous investment, and it takes many years to recover start-up costs before making a profit. That means a lot of skilled workers with a diverse range of specialties are required. Truck drivers, riggers, excavators, crane operators and maintenance technicians play a pivotal role ‘on the tools’, while there’s a host of supervisory and management positions that require filling too. Workers who have spent time in more labour-intensive mining jobs, and who develop a real connection to the industry, see the advantages of transitioning to careers in the project or construction management sphere. Some do so to capitalise on their experience, create a work/family life balance, or because heavy manual labour is no longer an attractive option. Getting qualified in management at a diploma level is an essential prerequisite for these roles. The College for Adult Learning offers integrated diploma courses, with learning coaches and mining industry experts available to help. Online courses can be undertaken at the students’ own pace, 24/7, in order to maximise career potential. Project Management and Building Construction Management qualifications are helpful for opening doors to senior roles in one of our country’s great industries. Getting a double diploma in both disciplines gives employers more reason to consider you for relevant roles and promotion pathways. Although mining activity is mostly tied to resource prices, even ‘slow’ periods are incredibly important to Australia’s financial fortunes. Iron ore exports alone are worth roughly $100 billion every year to our economy. It’s a large scale, high-stakes industry which sets platinum standards for employees in return for good wages and career prospects. Project managers are at the pinnacle of these opportunities. As such, project managers and construction managers in mining, require sound communication and leadership skills, a first-rate ability to plan major projects involving thousands of employees, a solid understanding of workplace OHS procedures, attention to detail, and more. Overseeing projects which may require billions of dollars in infrastructure investment brings a unique level of pressure. Making decisions under such time and financial constraints come with the territory, so a solid understanding of finance is critical. All these skills start with formal qualifications such as a Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820) or Building and Construction Management, even if you’ve already gained experience in the mining industry. AIPM-Endorsed Diploma CAL has received endorsement for our Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820) and Diploma of Project Management (specialising in Construction) (BSB50820) courses from the Australian Institute of Project Management (AIPM), the premier, longest-serving body for project management in Australia. Having passed a rigorous review by AIPM auditors, adding an AIPM-endorsed diploma to your repertoire demonstrates your commitment to project management professional development and the elevation of industry practices. How to get into the mining industry More than 230,000 Australians work in the mining industry, a figure that’s increased by 4.6% in the past five years. That represents almost 2% of the entire Australian workforce, which gives you an idea of its’ importance to the broader economy. In the next five years, that workforce is expected to grow by a further 20,000, so there is still plenty of employment opportunities going. At entry-level, you’re more likely to be engaged in roles that don’t involve fly-in fly-out (FIFO) work, as mining companies tend to employ more experienced workers at these sites. Most entry-level vacancies are found in regional operations and can involve long-term relocation to work on-site. In the next 5 years, the mining workforce is expected to grow by a further 20,000 roles. Click To Tweet Getting qualifications in fields like civil, electrical or mechanical engineering is a definite advantage, as is most trades. There are also many types of ‘tickets’, or licenses and training qualifications available, in more specific areas of mining. However, these can be very expensive and possibly better undertaken once you’ve secured a job. Like any industry, establishing contacts within mining (and maintaining them) is an excellent way to hear of any opportunities as soon as they arise. Recruitment and labour-hire companies can also help provide advice on your career into mining, specific to your situation. Gaining a foot in the door in the best start to get as much experience as you can in the various aspect of mining. How to Upskill and Achieve a Qualification When Working FIFO Many employers offer short or long-term work placements for potential employees who are undertaking study, to give them a first-hand look at the industry for which they have a real passion. Getting the right qualifications can allow you to specialise in other aspects of the mining industry, such as transport infrastructure, building inspection, or health and safety fields. A double diploma in Project Management or Building Construction Management sets you on the path to these and many other specialties within the mining industry. The College for Adult Learning’s online diploma courses let you organise study around other commitments, with the bonus of achieving qualifications that are recognised Australia-wide. A day in the life of a mining project manager Think of the project or construction manager as the ringmaster of a fast-paced, dynamic, high-stakes arena. They are, by definition, the critical point of contact for everyone working on or off-site. They plan, direct, and execute almost every level of operations. Although delegation is an essential aspect of the role, the buck ultimately stops with the project or construction manager. They are responsible for adherence to strict building regulations, liaising with architects and engineers, maintaining quality control, and possibly supervising multiple sites. Therefore, it makes sense that ‘hands-on’ experience in the mining industry is of enormous benefit to succeeding as a manager. A well-rounded project manager will understand the day-to-day challenges from multiple points of view. They will have the respect of their team because they possess the qualifications, experience, and ability to keep an eye on the ‘bigger picture’. Lay the foundations for a study path to the best jobs in the mining industry Laying the foundations for a leadership role in mining can open many doors, offer excellent financial rewards and almost limitless opportunities in mining.Like any project, beginning with the end in mind is crucial to success. Set a long-term goal for where you are heading and work backwards from the future to where you are now. Then plan out a study path that will get you there for the best value and in the shortest time. Take advantage of career and learning coaching to assist you in making the best choices for you. Selecting the right diploma qualification for you will make for a strong beginning for your future success in the mining industry. Your Career in Construction Management Do you want to learn more about construction management skills employers demand, emerging job roles and salaries, and recent industry insights?  Discover your career in construction management.  CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT CAREER PAGE

6 Top Project Management Tools in 2020

Are you in charge of managing any projects? Do you use any project management software to do your tasks? There are many beneficial aspects of using the following tools in project management. Read on for some of the best tools for project management in 2020. What is project management? Project management is the use of knowledge, techniques, and tools in project activities to meet the requirements of a project efficiently. Of course, it’s always recommended to divide activities into several stages to simplify the managing process. Here are 5 essential phases in project management that will assist you in organizing your activities: Initiating the project. Planning the strategy. Executing the plan. Monitoring the tasks. Closure and analysing. This is actually a routine in managing every project and there will be a lot of various details case by case. Why project management software? There are a lot of tasks in every project that need to be taken care of by the project manager. Of course, it’s not possible for a manager or any of his/her staff to perform or even record all these tasks manually. The main tasks which comprise the majority of the project’s volume are planning, monitoring, and also communications in the project. These are the most vital tasks you need to do by tools. For example, Social Tradia suggests using social media platforms for communication during projects to simplify management, especially when working remotely. Fortunately, various project management tools are available out there. Each of them covers a variety of functions, and this is up to you to choose the suitable one for your project. It’s important to know that a tool doesn’t necessarily need to be complex. In other words, your requirements and the type of your tasks determine which software is appropriate for your project. Six top project management tools in 2020 Now that you have been familiar with the necessity of using project management tools, it’s good to know several sought-after software programs. As it was said earlier, choosing a good tool depends on your requirements, skills, and also budget. We’ll try to introduce these tools so that you can decide easier. 1. Monday.com Monday.com is a strong platform for project management helping teams in organizing and executing tasks. You’ll get real-time results, no matter you’re in the workplace or at home. The simplicity and flexibility of Monday.com can provide you with the chance to instantly customizing the project’s procedure. Fascinating features like time monitoring, automated alarms, and timeline displaying can help your team achieve results more efficiently. 2. Smartsheet With management, collaboration, and automation features, Smart Sheet has become a leading task-planning and executing platform. It provides you with a real-time task management dashboard and a user-friendly spreadsheet interface. Many big companies such as Cisco, Bayer, HP, and PayPal are adopting their business tasks in this software. Powerful project management features of the software help your team to use real-time information differently. They can easily switch among Gantt, card, grid, and calendar views. 3. Wrike Another online project management platform that provides project updating, communication, and reporting is Wrike. User-friendly Gantt charts, interactive dashboards, customized options, and different requesting templates are just some of its features. Wrike also offers a handful of more specialized features for marketers or professional services. It’s being used by more than 20,000 small and big companies around the world and is a perfect choice for beginners. 4. Trello Trello is also a fantastic tool useful for companies that should track tasks and stay up-to-date. It’s way better than traditional project management software even if you’re using the free version. However, the free version of Trello offers plenty of capabilities that are enough for small teams rather than big companies. In fact, a reporting feature is the most important weakness of this software but it can’t make severe problems for small teams. Trello can really simplify workflow management using a Kanban board allowing all users to watch cards even without being assigned. 5. Backlog Online project management tools are so popular and therefore a lot of useful tools have developed in this regard. Backlog is one of the most sought after online management tool which is particularly useful for software development. The visual interface of the application helps your team convert each milestone into a manageable task. Plenty of useful features in this software allows you to automatically perform a lot of critical development tasks like bug checking, Gantt charts, and version management. Apart from these features, the main capability of the software is collaboration features including smartphone apps, real-time comments, and also file management. 6. Teamwork Teamwork is another useful project management tool that can benefit your teams in your projects. You can enhance your collaboration, accountability, and results by using this software. One of its main beneficial aspects is the ability to be customized. You can choose how to work and collaborate with your team no matter which style you use. Customized dashboards can show essential task metrics for your team members. With Teamwork, each member of your team can be allocated to his/her tasks and therefore easily see the workflow. You can see how your work is being tracked just by a simple glance at the activity timeline. Also, a professional overview of groups and all projects in this tool can help you easily spot mistakes and bottlenecks. Are you ready to commence your own project? If you want to choose one of these software programs, College for Adult Learning can provide you with useful recommendations. About the Author Tom Siani is an online marketing expert with more than 4 years of experience in the digital industry. He has experience collaborating with well-known brands in order to generate traffic, create sales funnels, and increase online sales. He has written a considerable number of articles about social media marketing, brand marketing, blogging, and search visibility.  

Why Project Managers need Leadership Skills

The leadership skills of the project manager have a substantial impact on the success of a project. You can be a leader without the skills of a project manager, and vice versa, but there is a lot each role can learn from one another. To lead effectively, you need to have a solid foundation of leadership skills, management skills, and communication skills. How do project managers learn to lead? As a project manager, you will be required to hold project meetings, coordinate internal and external staff, organise resources, manage client and stakeholder relationships, design a risk mitigation plan, oversee all budgeting for a project, and much, much more. A project manager has a varied and challenging career, but one that can be extremely satisfying if approached correctly. There are plenty of options to help a project manager acquire leadership skills. Undertaking further education from a trusted organisation is one of the most beneficial steps you can take to achieve success as a project manager. Creating a foundation of knowledge to build your skills on will increase the likelihood of advancing in your career. Studying will allow you to develop effective communication skills, create a positive workplace, develop emotional intelligence, and learn the key elements you need to be the best you can be in the project management field. All online diploma courses are developed in conjunction with leading industry experts, using modern case studies, so you are set up for long-term career growth from the beginning. What skills can you gain from a Diploma of Leadership and Management? Whether you are pursuing full-time or part time-study, the Diploma of Leadership and Management (BSB50420) will offer you real-world expertise that is going to be easily transferable in your career. You will undertake units that include: Managing an operation plan Team effectiveness Communicating with influence Quality customer service Creating a safe workplace Managing people performance What skills can you gain from a Diploma of Project Management? If you want to be a Project Manager, the most concise way to learn the essentials is by completing the Diploma of Project Management (BSB50920). At the end of this diploma, you will be well-equipped to succeed as a project manager. When choosing this diploma, you will learn how to manage project scope, cost, information and communication, stakeholder engagement and project risk. Double diploma – the best of both worlds If you are sure that you want to get a qualification in Project Management, but you think the knowledge from a Diploma of Leadership and Management would give you a leg up, there is a solution. You don’t have to choose one or the other. When you choose to study with the College for Adult Learning, you will have the opportunity to undertake a double diploma. You will be able to explore both disciplines in an effective double diploma combination. You will gain key skills and knowledge that will be crucial to helping you in your career, and potentially save hundreds of hours of study time by completing a double diploma. A double diploma provides a way to fast track your career into management by honing the necessary skills and knowledge. Once you’ve completed your study, you will be qualified to work in a variety of industries like construction, engineering, healthcare, information technology, and so much more. Download our FREE 'Your Career in Project Management' Guide Find the latest information in our eBook about a career in project management, including current job opportunities, skills you need, salary information and more. DOWNLOAD MY FREE GUIDE Ensure you develop the best leadership skills The difference between project management and leadership is important. To be successful at both, you must ensure that you have the best skills to apply in the modern workplace. Project managers are not always effective leaders, but leadership skills are ones that can be learnt and built upon with practice. Like anything worth doing, you want to be practising the best methods that get results. That’s where a quality online diploma will make all the difference. Good leaders have strong interpersonal and communication skills, otherwise known as soft skills. Your leadership needs to be the right balance of firm and fair. For example, you will be required to give immediate direction when needed while creating an environment where everyone feels safe and heard. In addition to unwavering management skills, you must be able to make trusted decisions on behalf of clients, stakeholders, and staff. A leadership and management diploma will give you the foundation to steady you among the many conflicting interests you encounter each day as a project manager. Leadership is a team effort Your project management skills are needed to guide a project, meet deadlines and satisfy your clients and stakeholders. By putting in the effort to strengthen your leadership skills, you will empower your team to deliver quality work and outcomes. Using your leadership skills to foster a team who are happy in their job and engender good stakeholder relationships will increase productivity and workplace wellbeing for everyone. Leadership and management skills are essential for the project manager who strives to stand out and ensure long-term career satisfaction and performance. Is that you?

How Project and Construction Diplomas Can Get You A Job

Construction remains the big Australian employer Each year, Australia’s construction industry contributes about $350 billion to the economy, roughly 8% of our gross domestic product. Even when the property market hit rock bottom in mid-2019 (after reaching its peak 18 months earlier), construction continued to employ about a million people. The Australian Industry and Skills Committee predicted in 2018 that the construction industry would have an annual average growth rate of 2.5% for the following five years, despite the recent downturn. Productivity is increasing too, as better technology, improved building techniques, and more efficient materials help drive smarter and more cost-effective construction processes. It follows that those in positions of seniority within the industry are highly sought after, and very well compensated financially. At the top of that pile are Project Managers and Construction Managers. Each year, Australia's construction industry contributes about $350 billion to the economy, which is roughly 8% of our GDP. Despite the property market hitting rock bottom mid-2019, construction still employed about 1 million people. Click To Tweet What’s the difference? A construction manager’s focus is centred squarely on the building phase of the project, whereas a project manager oversees everything including planning, budgets, contracts, marketing, and more. Knowing this, what is the value of a Construction Management Diploma or Project Management Diploma through College for Adult Learning? How valuable might one of these diplomas be in an industry which constantly requires senior roles to guide and inspire hundreds of workers on multi-million-dollar worksites? Construction Management Diploma Outcomes The average salary for a construction manager in Australia is $112,000, but the best of the best can command $187,000 or more. Project managers do even better, with an average wage of $127,000, and the best paid earning north of $249,000. Like any salary of that magnitude, it is a reflection of many factors including demand, qualifications, skills, experience and leadership abilities. These professionals are well-remunerated for a good reason. Construction Managers are ultimately responsible for not just the building’s integrity but require skills (and diplomacy) to serve the interests of major contractors, subcontractors, and often buyers. Project Management Diploma Outcomes Project Managers have an even longer list of responsibilities and stakeholders to keep happy. In other words, the buck stops with them when there’s often a lot of money at stake, and investors are counting on a good job to get a decent rate of return. Then there’s the issue of regulation. The building trade is overseen in all sectors and occupations at local, state, and federal government level with a multitude of rules and regulations. It follows that staying updated on those rules is an important aspect of both construction and project managers’ job. All this means that, more than ever, having the right qualifications is crucial. An important step on the pathway to either career is the right qualification. Think of it as the ultimate investment in yourself towards getting a well-paid career that offers stability, variety, excitement, and great job satisfaction. The value of the Project and Construction management Diplomas The College for Adult Learning’s Construction Management and Project Management diplomas are recognised throughout the industry. Their nationally accredited training gives you the foundation to get a ‘foot in the door’, or get you closer to that promotion you’ve been chasing if you’re already in the industry. Diplomas can be completed at your own pace, although the typical length of time is between 12-16 months for a course. You can study online with fantastic coaching and student support, at convenient times that suit you. There are currently approximately 25,000 Australian-based construction or project management roles advertised on SEEK alone. That means the market is begging for talent, so there’s evidence of outstanding outcomes by completing either diploma. Showing a prospective employer your commitment to the industry (and learning all you can about it) is a positive demonstration of your work ethic and dedication. Plus, you’ll learn even more about the construction game, and therefore broaden your choice of jobs down the track. See the comparison below: Single Diploma of Building & Construction Management (CPC50320) = 15 units Single Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820) = 12 units Single Diploma of Project Management (specialising in Construction) (BSB50820) = 12 units What does the future hold for residential and commercial jobs? About a third of all construction projects in Australia are residential. People will always need houses, of course, but projections are that in the next three years, that will decrease from 36% to 32% of the market. Commercial construction is expected to help fill the void. Managing a commercial project is usually more complicated than a residential one, so construction and project managers with the right qualifications have a bright employment outlook for the future. Experts are also predicting a swing towards modular and prefabricated construction projects, as technology improves, and cost control becomes more of an issue. Keeping across trends like that is much easier if you can gain experience and credibility in the industry. Couple these factors with more government investment in infrastructure (state and federal), it becomes clear that construction and project management are careers of the future. Getting a solid understanding provided by a diploma in either or both disciplines is a smart move for those looking to future-proof their career. What is next for managers in the construction sector? By all counts, it seems that diploma outcomes in the fields of both construction and project management are bright. Both roles require a solid educational base to make you more employable. Beyond that, an exciting and rewarding industry awaits. Managers at this level need a strong initiative, the ability to work calmly under pressure, great communication skills and solid personal drive. Undertaking a diploma qualification, in and of itself, demonstrates all these qualities. Having the ambition and enthusiasm to commit to an online diploma, even one you complete at your own pace, are attractive qualities in any workplace. The value of the project management or construction management diploma isn’t just to give you the qualifications you need. A respected diploma qualification demonstrates to any potential employer that you are serious and committed to the long term success of the company and the future of the construction and related industries. Your Career in Construction Management Do you want to learn more about construction management skills employers demand, emerging job roles and salaries, and recent industry insights?  Discover your career in construction management.  CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT CAREER PAGE  

The Many Opportunities in Project Management

Project management is a crucial career that ensures the success of projects in a variety of industries and fields. Tasks such as planning, budgeting, overseeing staff, and ensuring that projects run smoothly will all fall under your job description. If you are considering a career in project management, it is wise to consider what opportunities you will be presented with in the future. What does it take to work in project management? What does a project management career entail? And what other career pathways are available? Cultivating a flexible mindset as a project manager As a project manager, there is a strong chance you will be required to balance multiple projects at any one time. Developing flexibility in your competencies and with your time is crucial to succeed in this situation. At the beginning of a project, you’ll identify any risks that could become an issue later on. From there, you will be able to create a flexible strategy that will prepare for the worst (but hopefully won’t be needed). You’ll allocate time and funding to ensure your jobs run smoothly. If you don’t allow enough of either resource, you will have to do damage control. This can cause problems for your projects and may disappoint employers or project stakeholders. In contrast, if you allocate too much time or money to one project, you run the risk of taking resources from a project that may need it more, effectively creating unnecessary wastage. Having a strong and flexible mindset will allow you to consistently manage the workloads of employees and resources allocated to the project. Evaluating projects as a whole and scheduling peaks and troughs so that they are well-spaced will mean you don’t have all your projects coming to a head at one time, creating less stress and easier management. Flexibility and balance are easily the most necessary skills to develop in project management. With these skills, you will be able to make informed and fast decisions, smart budgeting choices, and the best conditions for your staff. Project management opportunities in building and construction Building and construction is an industry that depends heavily on project management. Like any industry, building and construction project management requires the ability to plan, organise, problem-solve, manage priorities, and use initiative. Your ability to work in a team and have open communication will be crucial to your success. Construction project managers can expect to work in a variety of fields like commercial, residential, industrial and heavy civil. Some of the tasks you’ll need to manage will include: Compile a budget and negotiate cost estimates for the project. Organise work timetables for your employees. Select the most efficient strategies and construction methods. Maintain communication with your clients and stakeholders to keep them updated on work or budget-related progress or issues. Openly discuss contractual details with your co-workers and other parties involved. Ensure safety standards are maintained on the construction site so that your staff are as safe as possible. Guarantee that your strategies and plans meet compliance and legal requirements. If you want to enter this field, online learning offers the perfect pathway. If you’ve been in the building and construction industry and understand the practices and protocols, completing a project management course will demonstrate that you’ve gone to great lengths toward achieving this new goal. Employers will be impressed by the steps that you have taken. The overarching goal for a construction project manager is to remain closely connected to the technical and personal elements of a project. Whether it is communicating with stakeholders, contractors, community, or managing the budget and execution, you need to be aware of every aspect and maintain an extreme level of organisation. Ultimately, your goal is the complete satisfaction of your client’s needs and wishes for their project, whether from a functional or a logistical point of view. Your Career in Project Management Do you want to learn more about project management skills employers demand, emerging job roles and salaries, and recent industry insights?  Discover your career in project management.  PROJECT MANAGEMENT CAREERS PAGE Project management opportunities in quality auditing Another opportunity that exists for project managers exists in the field of quality auditing. The role of a quality auditor is structured to determine if a job is complying with policies, procedures, and processes of the organisation or project. Why will a company seek to employ a quality auditor? They are capable of identifying the best practice needs of the organisation or project. They will determine non-compliant practices and if there are any shortcomings or gaps in any one project. They form good relationships with the organisation and project teams. They provide assistance to improve the process being implemented to increase the productivity and success of a project team. The purpose of an auditor, in this situation, is to correct any deficiencies in a project that would compromise quality or safety. These audits can be conducted randomly, on a schedule and by an internal or external auditor. With so much at stake, for both the auditor and the party being audited, certain behaviours will uphold the level of professionalism you need to be successful in your career. Guidelines for a quality auditor Appear neutral. Being rude or nervous will lead to resistance from those you are inspecting. Similarly, being overly friendly will make it appear that you don’t take the audit seriously. Ask open-ended questions, allowing enough time for answers and listening closely to what everyone has to say. Communication is key. The goal is to ensure the project is successful and speculating about who’s at fault for a non-compliance practice will not create success. If a mistake is made, it is the employer’s responsibility to bring it up with the party at fault. Communicate effectively and clearly with all managing parties. Refrain from giving any recommendations that could compromise the quality and objectivity of the audit. Always report on any safety issues you may come across, even when outside of your audit scope. If you have made a successful career in project management but are looking for a change, quality auditing could be a good option for you. The best way to achieve this would be to undertake a quality auditing course online. Download our FREE 'Your Career in Project Management' Guide Find the latest information in our eBook about a career in project management, including current job opportunities, skills you need, salary information and more. DOWNLOAD MY FREE GUIDE Project management opportunities and salaries No matter the business or industry, high-quality project management will always be essential to their longevity. The success of projects ultimately rests on the quality of its leaders and their ability to balance projects and priorities effectively. Such positions are always valuable and ensure a relatively positive outlook for project management remaining a prosperous career in the future. The Bureau of Labor Statistics in the United States estimates that worldwide, management occupations will grow at a rate of 6% by 2024. If this is a correct estimation, there could be as many as 505,000 new jobs in the field by the estimated date. Worldwide, projected job change is driven by the continued establishment of new businesses and organisations, as well as the expansion of existing ones. The more expansion continues, the greater the need for managers and supervisors. This effectively creates a higher volume need for project managers in the workforce. The average salary for a project manager in the construction industry in Australia is $97,887. Factors that could impact are location, experience, and the company. An entry-level project manager with less than one year’s experience can anticipate an average of $66,000. One to four years in the industry can expect you to see an average total compensation of AU$79,231. Cultivating leadership potential as a project manager Strong leadership skills are the hallmark of any great project manager. Honed over time and by necessity, your leadership abilities can increase your career trajectory when coupled with the right qualification. A seasoned project manager might consider the idea of doing an MBA to further their career potential. However, the smart move is undertaking a Diploma of Leadership and Management (BSB50420) to achieve the same result for less time and money. A double diploma that includes logistics management will open up opportunities for CEO, COP and COO leadership positions in Australia and overseas. The bright future of project management Project management can be a lucrative and fulfilling career when handled with foresight and commitment. Whether you are just starting your career, or have been in the industry for a while, there is always more to learn and experience. Key positions in building and construction, quality auditing or a company leadership role are all great examples of how to be successful in the many industries that require outstanding project management know-how. Online learning is the best way to expand your knowledge and successfully take advantage of future opportunities in project management. Discover the perfect course for you Explore the College for Adult Learning's range of courses, across a variety of industries and qualification levels – from certificate IVs to double diplomas, construction management to human resources and leadership. Discover the course that will help you change careers, upskill, get qualified, promote yourself or find your passion.  EXPLORE COURSES

The Advantages of Learning Project Management Online

Project management is an excellent career option that comes with many benefits. But what is project management exactly and what kinds of duties does it involve? Here, we’ll take a closer look at the importance of project management and the advantages of adult training in this career. What is project management? Project management is the process of planning and managing projects. It involves preparation and organisation, managing a team, and reaching specific goals and deadlines. Project managers often work in construction and engineering, but they can also work in many other industries – from healthcare to education. A project manager, especially one qualified through adult learning courses, has a lot of transferable skills. Transferable skills are qualities that can be used across industries and in many different roles. These usually include creative and critical thinking, and problem-solving. Further, they may include human-centered skills like collaboration, communication and being able to present to large groups – all of which are integral to the role of project manager. Why is project management an important skill? A project manager, especially one that is qualified with a qualification, benefits the organisation they work for. Here’s what makes project management such an important skill: The organisation benefits from gaining an employee trained in industry best-practice. It gains from an employee skilled in crucial tools and techniques that can be passed on to other employees. Project managers support their team members in their roles, increasing all-round employee competence, confidence and satisfaction. This, in turn, results in the organisation benefiting from more efficient staff and lower employee turnover. Project managers improve the efficiency with which projects are delivered. This results in greater customer satisfaction, higher-paid contracts for the organisation, and greater profits. Project managers enhance the credibility and reputation of their organisation, by continuously assisting their team to develop and improve. The advantages of learning project management online Adult education courses in project management include the Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820) online. These adult education courses equip you with the

Righting a Wrong Project

‘Is there any way to ‘right’ a ‘wrong’ project?’ That’s a question often asked by project management students and professionals alike. Many people have had experience of managing a project that seems doomed to fail from the outset. Perhaps the budget is inaccurate, or the deliverables are not possible within the allowed schedule. Many common project management issues stem from poor planning, and it can appear the project can’t easily be rectified, particularly if the contract stipulates the deliverables, schedule, and budget. The good news is there are ways to right a wrong project. 9 Steps to make a project right again Refocus the Scope: Begin by going back to the defining documents, including your Charter, Statement of Work, and approved Change Requests. Revisit what it was you committed to accomplishing. Conversely, document what has been unofficially added to the project. You are trying to obtain a clear understanding of the commitments and the expectations of others. Tell the truth, early and often: There is no easy way to tell someone you can’t deliver on what you’ve promised but delaying or avoiding this truth will only serve to make the situation worse. Effective Stakeholder Management: From the outset, you’ll need to manage stakeholder expectations (both internally and externally) and ensure you keep the lines of communication with your stakeholders open and honest. It is vital that there are no more surprises for any of your stakeholders. There’s a case to be made for ‘under promising and over delivering.’ Quality Audit Overlay: Quality Auditing is a critical component of your recovery strategy. Your audit will cover: Inputs – Quality Management Plan, Process Improvement Plan, Quality Metrics, Quality Control Measurements, Project Documents Tools and Techniques – Quality Management control tools, Continuous quality audits, Process analysis Outputs – Change Requests, Project Management Plan updates, Organisational process assets updates Your audit will expose everywhere the original plan had missing successors or a predecessor, find negative leads and cut lags to a minimum. All tasks will have corrected Finish to Start relationships, and hard constraints checked and verified. High float checks and Negative float checks will be noted and adjusted appropriately, and High Duration tasks will be identified and handled. Additionally, your audit will show up Invalid Dates. It will not only identify where you do not have resources assigned to the task schedule but will also show you where you need to align late tasks to the baseline schedule. The integrity of the schedule will be assessed and will determine if the forecasted finish date is realistic. Download our FREE 'Your Career in Project Management' Guide Find the latest information in our eBook about a career in project management, including current job opportunities, skills you need, salary information and more. DOWNLOAD MY FREE GUIDE Engage the entire team: Every employee brings a diversity of experience, strengths, weaknesses, and points of view to the work environment and project. Tap into this invaluable resource. Communicate often. Meet regularly with short, sharp, and to-the-point meetings to harvest the wealth of this resource. Innovation: Make innovation a function of a well engaged and diverse team that is committed to the continuous improvement of every aspect of their role, and the tasks they manage. Regular meetings can capture these innovations and potentially maximise your recovery strategy. Understand your funding: You’ll need to ensure your funding is enough to cover the work, particularly if you know you’ll need to over-budget to deliver on your contractual obligations. A Quality Audit will expose the reality of your funding and support keeping as close to the budget as possible by showing where you can tighten specific areas to produce maximum benefits. Minimising wastage: A vital cost-saving measure and a simple but highly effective challenge for every team member to achieve. Economise carefully: When you’re looking to economise on your materials, ensure they are fit for purpose. If you’re making selections based purely on cost, you’ll likely experience more significant cost blowouts down the track if they aren’t fit for purpose and need to be replaced. Every one of these corrections can produce the compounding effect of many small increases in efficiency and effectiveness. An effective quality audit and an engaged team should be your most valuable resources in preventing a ‘wrong project’ from happening. Having a qualification in Project Management (BSB50820) or Quality Auditing (BSB51615) would be beneficial in this scenario. When righting a wrong project, it is essential that issues are understood and managed, and of course, addressed as early as possible. Careful project management planning and excellent communication across the life of the project can help to turn an awkward start into a strong finish.  

Why You will Stand Out as a Qualified Construction Project Manager

If you are considering a return to study, it is important to know how and why you will stand out as a qualified construction project manager. Financial gain Dozens of trades and professions make up the construction industry and project managers are among the most sought after for leadership positions. Competent and experienced professionals are financially rewarded for pursuing exciting career opportunities. The average Australian Project Manager wage is upwards of $85,000, but the best and brightest construction project managers with up-to-date knowledge can easily earn more than $140,000. There are few careers where you can prepare the groundwork for a project and oversee every stage of the process right through to completion. Many project managers describe the completion of a job as the most satisfying part of their work. A post-tertiary qualification such as a Diploma of Project Management (BSB51415) and Diploma of Building & Construction (Management) (CPC50320) can be the best choice to set you on the path to the most rewarding of careers. What's your Management Trajectory? Are you wondering how far away you are from your next promotion? Take our quiz to assess your management career pathway. GO TO QUIZ Knowledge Construction project managers are ultimately responsible for the completion of expensive projects. The oversight and decisions of construction managers are crucial to success. The best in the field use every tool at their disposal to coordinate dozens of tasks that all need completing to strict deadlines. Every day they turn to the latest technology to help them. Their vision is shared with dozens of people to reach milestones and see progress. The right educational qualification can give leaders the confidence to know they’ve got the skills to help them to succeed, and allow the team to trust the leaders. No two days are the same, and you’ll be dealing with a variety of people and challenges. There are costs to plan, budgets to manage, subcontractors to hire, frequent briefings with stakeholders, and a multitude of other tasks. Competent people management skills and patience are required in equal measure, as every decision is ultimately geared to delivering projects on time and budget. AIPM-Endorsed Diploma CAL has received endorsement for our Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820) and Diploma of Project Management (specialising in Construction) (BSB50820) courses from the Australian Institute of Project Management (AIPM), the premier, longest-serving body for project management in Australia. Having passed a rigorous review by AIPM auditors, adding an AIPM-endorsed diploma to your repertoire demonstrates your commitment to project management professional development and the elevation of industry practices. Gone are the days when a construction manager might leave school at age fifteen for a building apprenticeship, and spend 25-30 years climbing the career ladder towards their first project management role. Now, a qualification can quickly set you apart from the crowd, giving you a foot in the door that might otherwise take years or even decades. One of the advantages of a qualification like a Certificate IV in Project Management Practice (BSB40920) is that it opens up a world of opportunities. Virtually all construction project management skills translate to any work site. Employers also understand the value of engaging qualified individuals. Employers also look for their employees’ ambition, endeavour, adaptability, and flexibility. When it comes to standing out in a field with equally qualified candidates, those are great assets for any construction project manager.  Construction offers plenty of opportunities for career progression, with high job growth across the country. According to Labour Market Insights, Construction Manager roles are set to grow by 10.2% in the next 5 years, making it a lucrative career to become qualified in. Take the first step Project management skills in any industry can be similar in many respects. While experience counts, good communication and planning skills are critical, as is a good work ethic. Flexibility is also vital. For example, a busy construction industry means it’s harder to source labour, like tradespeople. Conversely, a quieter period means a manager’s focus will shift to sourcing projects rather than subcontractors. A Certificate IV in Project Management Practice (BSB40920) will teach you the project scoping and planning skills to take the first step into a project management position in construction. If you already have extensive experience to upskill into a senior construction management role, a qualification such as the Diploma of Project Management (Specialising in Construction) (BSB50820) will fast-track you there. Your Career in Construction Management Do you want to learn more about construction management skills employers demand, emerging job roles and salaries, and recent industry insights?  Discover your career in construction management.  CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT CAREER PAGE

How to Enhance Relationships for Successful Projects

When a project is defined, the work of forming the right team begins and it’s important to know how to enhance relationships from the start, to achieve a successful project. Project teams are usually created to deliver a unique benefit to an organisation. Often the project is for something different from the day-to-day activities undertaken and can consist of a generally diverse group of people tasked with achieving the desired result. Project leadership calls for clear communication about goals, responsibility, performance, expectations and feedback. Yet it has been found that one in five projects is unsuccessful – purely because of ineffective communications. Commonly, the project manager will hear – “Just tell me what to do.” “What is the task list?” “Can you give me a checklist?” Sound familiar? All are important questions, and yet they require a clear context and a cohesive team relationship structure to be answered effectively.   Share the Big Picture To begin with, share the big picture and make it a consistent part of your message. Involve the team for feedback on what they see is needed. Asking the right questions can be powerful here. How does this task fit into the overall goals for the team? What are the most important components of doing this work successfully? Questions like these will help you create deeper awareness and understanding.   Listen Actively We hear this often, and that’s because active listening is the biggest factor in effective communication. Our body language, eye contact, and asking relevant questions will demonstrate to someone whether we are actively listening. These key signals show that you are genuinely interested and engaged when a team member is talking to you. Model active listening to your team, and watch as they start to use the skills with each other.   Communicate Often The most cohesive teams meet often, both digitally and face-to-face. This can appear like a distraction from the ‘real’ work of the project, especially when a project by its very nature will have a tight schedule. However, the research on teams who get the job done quickly and successfully has shown that the tighter the schedule, the more often they should meet. Keep the check-in meetings short and daily if necessary. They give team members opportunities to report problems and ask questions quickly so that corrections are implemented immediately. Frequent communication creates flow and momentum as changes can be made faster.   Give Frequent Feedback Everyone needs feedback on their progress, and it is in the interest of the project that you are aware of each team member’s performance. The most effective way to monitor performance is through individual coaching sessions. Your time spent coaching will be most effective if you use questioning to identify problems with performance, issues with staying on time and within your budget, relationship/conflict issues, as well as agreeing on corrections with clear outcomes. Questions are an effective and democratic form of management. Coaching provides a powerful opportunity to acknowledge what is working and where improvements are needed. Keep questions specific to the individual and task or situation. Identify Stress Factors Another benefit of the coaching process is judging whether or not you are applying the right amount of pressure. John Kotter describes this as the “Productive Range of Distress”. Enough stress will get team members motivated into action. The bigger challenge is to identify the people who are burdened by too much stress. It’s difficult to assess this because some people will have an obvious or panicked stress response. Others may withdraw and direct their stress inward. As there is no single pattern, you should look for deviations from an employee’s normal behaviour. You’ll be able to judge stress response by monitoring behaviour in regular coaching sessions. By monitoring behaviour regularly, the signs of distress can be quickly corrected. Download our FREE 'Your Career in Project Management' Guide Find the latest information in our eBook about a career in project management, including current job opportunities, skills you need, salary information and more. DOWNLOAD MY FREE GUIDE Bring the Fun Adding an element of fun is found to increase productivity. In the words of Fish! Philosophy, “we take our work seriously without taking ourselves seriously”. Add fun by finding creative ways to celebrate reaching each milestone. Praising progress is always more effective than waiting to praise the final result. A positive atmosphere results in everyone involved in the project feeling inspired about the work that has to be done. Overall, project managers must spend time with the project team, be fully engaged and prepared to listen, and understand their feelings. Having an effective strategy to enhance relationships within the project team will aid with driving a successful project.  

How to Plan Effectively: Project Milestones 101

When you’re working on a project, it’s important to plan effectively by setting project milestones. Milestones allow perspective of where you are during each phase of your project. They can be set to a timeline, so you can easily track your team’s progress through each project stage.   Make milestones relevant and motivating Milestones can be difficult to decide and designate in a way both you and your team agree upon because they are based on the time spent to complete and the effort expended to reach each goal. To create a list of potential milestones, you also must know what traits these mini objectives should have. Involve your team in defining the milestones to create better buy-in for the project.   9 Must-have Milestone Criteria Specific – When you create a milestone, you should be instantly able to determine what needs to happen to complete the milestone. Measurable – To complete any milestone, you must be able to know when it is successfully completed. TIP: Use a to-do list! Attainable – Each milestone must be realistic. Otherwise, you’ll find your team stuck and unmotivated in one phase for a long time. Relevant – Each milestone should bring you a step closer to the fruition of your project. If a milestone isn’t from the original objective of completing your project, then it shouldn’t be considered as a milestone. Instead, put it in the side projects box and focus on what’s necessary. Timely – Each milestone needs an expected timeframe of completion. If you don’t specify the date it should be finished, you and your team won’t feel the urgency to complete it – and the project will drag on. Open – Make sure that each milestone can be clearly understood by the members of the team and all those who are directly or indirectly involved in the project. Avoid technical jargon as it may alienate and confuse others. Assignable – In creating a milestone, each member must know if they are involved in the project or not and what’s expected of them. This increases accountability as you’ll know who should’ve taken care of what aspect of the project. Progressive – As stated earlier, a set of milestones should move as a timeline. The completion of one will instantaneously move your team forward to the next task, and so forth. Significant – If your milestones are too small, it may feel like you’re just giving your team a list of tasks to do in chronological order. Worse, it could feel like stalling. Make sure that the achievement of each milestone means completion of a considerable or significant amount of your project.   Be focused, yet flexible Depending on the size and demands of the project, the timeline for achieving milestones needs to be open to adjustments. That said, before the project starts, it’s a good idea to have already planned out a tentative project completion date, allowing for added time. Managing your team After each milestone is defined, you’ll also need to provide specific to-do lists and assign them to a team member. Project Management Software tools such as Asana and Basecamp are useful for assigning tasks and providing an overview of where milestones are reaching targets and which ones are falling behind and may require more resources. Team communication tools like Slack can improve productivity and speed up workflow. Allocate adequate resources (time, money, location, staff, etc.) to each milestone to ensure success and keep motivation flowing. Creating a ritual such as ringing a bell or playing a team song with the completion of each milestone will keep the energy engaged. Project milestones are an essential element of a successful project. Learning how to plan effectively is a skill that will pay dividends for your business and career. Give yourself and your team the milestone planning skills they need by investing in quality training, such as an online Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820).  

Project Management Job Trends for 2022

2022 Trends in Project Management include global and industry hot spots, Japanese innovation, and a return to valuing human resources. Seven Job Trends for Project Managers to watch in 2022 1. Enterprise model continues to gain favour As reported in February 2018, there has been an accelerating trend for businesses to adopt Project Management as an Enterprise model and this continues to increase. The benefits are an efficient use of resources plus reductions in time and cost overruns. Employees seeking to secure career advancement opportunities should urgently consider becoming qualified in Project Management.   2. The personal touch We’ve previously discussed that the rapid adoption of the latest technologies including AI, The Internet of Things and Machine Learning. Interestingly, this trend has shone a spotlight on the need to engage and fully utilise human resources. A developing trend is a conceptual new framework called Projectification – the view of projects as a Human Condition. With this view, the ability to manage, engage and inspire the human element of every project is the key to success. Project Managers in greatest demand are those who have strong stakeholder management skills and can quickly align with a company’s strategic objectives.   3. Using Kanban boards Developed in Japan in the car industry, Kanban Boards and Kanban theory is currently being integrated into project management methodology, using a grid and Kanban cards to aid and manage workflow. Using Kanban gives the project greater flexibility and helps Project Managers to embrace innovation.   4. Best practice quality management There is a growing demand to integrate Quality Management practices into Project Management, with the associated external governance to ensure Project Managers are delivering global best practice standards.   5. Industry hot spots to watch now Telecoms The push towards greater mobile connectivity has caused a surge in this industry. In India, use of smartphones will cross the 700 million mark by 2020. Mobile innovation has become the norm, including a renewed push for messaging apps. Finance 80% of all financial services organisations are investing in new digital technologies and are seeking Project Management professionals with an innovation mindset, who can drive change across the business. Construction Globally, this industry is facing a widening talent gap and will need to fill 9.7 million Project Manager positions through to 2027. The Project Manager Professionals with the qualifications and skills to ride the digitisation wave will be highly valued. IT In 2018, the big news in the IT sector was Cybersecurity. Threats to business are up 33% in the past ten years, and the resultant revenue loss is down by 20% in many cases. These stats have created ongoing opportunity for IT Project Managers who have a security focus. Healthcare A sector with increasing uncertainty and complexity, there is increasing demand for professionals who have Healthcare, IT and Project Manager qualifications. Aerospace and Defense Commercial aircraft manufacturing is buoyant, along with growth in research and production of uncrewed aerial vehicles (drones) both in defense and for commercial use. Project Managers who can navigate the uncertainty of growing global tensions will be in high demand. Renewable Energy The growth in solar and wind generation has averaged 20% in the last few years. Skilled Project Managers are required in this area with scope to bring a fresh perspective to an evolving industry. 6. Global PM hot spots India – GDP growth 7% will outpace China’s innovation and competitiveness by 2025. Both tech and public infrastructure growth point to a pending project manager skill gap. Vietnam – GDP growth 6.3% with manufacturing being the biggest driver to date. Watch for massive future investments in agriculture and electronics. Peru – GDP growth 3.8% due to mining and growth in public infrastructure projects. Canada – GDP growth 2.1% is driving opportunities in booming construction and energy sectors. Germany – GDP growth 1.8% underpinned by low unemployment and focus on energy, consumer goods and the recovering auto industry.   7. Salaries and qualifications As the demand for properly qualified Project Managers grows, those who have the Diploma of Project Management will be in a prime position to strike when the right opportunity appears. Salaries are always commensurate with qualifications and experience. You can expect anything from $43,000 pa for an unqualified beginner, up to $166,000 pa (and more) for a fully qualified, experienced Senior Project Manager. The growing talent gap will begin to put upward pressure on these figures.   Overall optimism The Project Management Institute (PMI) remains optimistic about global job trends in 2022. Worldwide, the evidence shows that if there is a downturn in opportunities occurring in one country or industry, there will be a surge in another. The exponential growth in opportunities predicted in 2018 will not decrease in the foreseeable future.  

How To Work Effectively With Architects

Construction and project managers must regularly liaise with many people involved in a build, including clients, contractors, builders, local government and architects. In this blog post, we’ll look at how you can work closely with the client’s architect (or team of architects) and liaise with them before, after and throughout the building process. Communicate throughout the construction project Communication is paramount when working with architects to develop an effective off-site and on-site relationship. For a successful project outcome, all parties must communicate quickly and openly with each other. The client, construction manager, architect and stakeholders must commit to open and result-orientated communication. Therefore, good project planning and project management are essential. Developing a clear plan and delegating tasks upfront means every stakeholder knows what needs to be done, giving the construction project the best chance of success. Manage architect and client expectations When working with an architect, there will usually be an initial meeting to set expectations about the project and discuss the client’s needs and wants. It is up to the client to decide the overall scope of the building project and desired result, based on their requirements. From here, the architect’s role is to design a build in line with these needs. As a construction manager, you will frequently work with the architect, client, builders and contractors to make plans come to life. To achieve a successful project, expectations must be realistic. Establish a time frame that is achievable by all parties and consider all the tasks and processes that need to be carried out. These should be communicated clearly to all involved. Using professional knowledge and experience, construction managers may advise the client or architect in areas such as: Permits required Feasibility of the build Time-frame expectations Types of contractors required Costings and budget information Download our FREE 'Your Career in Building and Construction Management' Guide Find the latest information in our eBook about a career in construction management, including current job opportunities, skills you need, salary information and more. DOWNLOAD MY FREE GUIDE   Manage issues throughout the build When working with any stakeholder on a large project, issues will inevitably arise. If challenges are handled correctly, they can strengthen the working relationship. However, if issues aren’t handled well and promptly, they can create more problems and lengthen the time frame needed to complete the build. When dealing with issues, it is important to do so professionally. Ensure that you: Raise any concerns as soon as possible Speak openly with all parties involved Arrive at a conclusion which is fair for everyone Always stay calm and respectful Seek mediation from a neutral third party, if required Managing the client-to-architect relationship The client-to-architect relationship is an important one as there needs to be trust established by both parties. Your client wants the best build possible and it’s your job to be the middleman who liaises between them and the architect. The client and architect will meet directly at the start of the project. However, it isn’t always possible for them to liaise frequently throughout the build due to time or location restraints. Therefore, as a caring and committed construction manager, you must effectively communicate between the client and architect to ensure that the needs of your client are being met and that the construction team supports the architect. Working with architects is one of the many important relationships you’ll experience during your exciting and rewarding career as a construction manager. With the right skills and effective communication, you will be highly regarded and respected in your field. Your Career in Construction Management Do you want to learn more about construction management skills employers demand, emerging job roles and salaries, and recent industry insights?  Discover your career in construction management.  CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT CAREER PAGE

Project Management Skills For The Future

As job opportunities in many industry sectors are shrinking, it’s a perfect time to consider upgrading your CV with transferable project management skills and future-proofing your career. Adding Project Management skills to the industry qualifications or experience that you already have can expand your career choices and your potential for advancement immediately. The importance of project management Managing a project from start to finish requires a team with complementary talents and skills who are tasked with the responsibility for planning and executing the project objectives. A sound and well-executed project plan can mean the difference between success or failure. Leading a project team is a challenging skill to master but well worth it for the diversity and job satisfaction of a successful project. Transferable project management skills A variety of sectors currently have a high demand for candidates with Project Management skills and view these skills as a highly valued career asset. Demand is still strong in the traditional fields such as mining, engineering, construction and information technology. What’s newer is project management becoming necessary within defence, healthcare, banking and finance, parks, wildlife and environmental protection. Once you’ve gained the skills and experience in your sector, more sectors of industry will begin to seek you out. Excellent Project Managers are desirable in any sector no matter what their background, which is why general project management skills are highly transferrable. The stand-out advantages of having skills in project management include an opportunity to work in a collaborative environment and the ability to transfer across industry sectors should redundancy occur, or opportunities shrink in any particular sector. These transferable skills include; Excellent communication skills Reliable and strong organisation skills Team leader competency Delegation Ability to work under pressure Ability to work well with deadlines Working alongside clear objectives and goals of management or a client In addition, Australian Project Management qualifications continue to hold full respect both in Asia and further afield, therefore increasing opportunities for those who like variety and travel. Steps to upskilling in project management To gain the essential qualifications in Project Management ensure your education provider has a reputation for quality and results, and you too can enjoy the future-proofing rewards that this career can provide. If you are looking for a prosperous career in Project Management, here are some recommendations; 1. Get qualified Getting a Diploma in Project Management gives you the practical skills you can immediately apply to any position, and shows potential employers you are serious about your career. 2. Build up your communication skills Managing a project and a team of employees means communication is essential in every single aspect of your job. Research online communication strategies and tips for different stakeholders, such as clients, management and employees. Be aware that this role requires you to bridge any communication barriers between opposing stakeholder groups also, and work through disputes/disagreements. 3. Find a mentor The best way to learn is from someone who has great experience and is good at their Project Management role. By observing how projects are managed by your mentor, you can gain invaluable knowledge about the ‘ins and outs’ of project managing. You also have the opportunity to ask more in-depth questions about details you may encounter in your role as Project Manager. REMEMBER: The more experience you can get both in your current industry and working in both related and non-related sectors, the more valuable you will become. It is through varied jobs and industries you learn how to manage projects better in all aspects. Use your skill set as the stepping-stone to career success with options both in Australia and overseas. Download our FREE 'Your Career in Project Management' Guide Find the latest information in our eBook about a career in project management, including current job opportunities, skills you need, salary information and more. DOWNLOAD MY FREE GUIDE Project management salaries and changes Did you know that one of the highest salaries available in Australia today is for those with Project Management skills? A recent survey conducted in Australia confirms that it is now the number one country for the highest paid project practitioners, with an average salary of $134,659. Australian industries are rapidly adopting ways to cut costs and time overruns and will pay well for professionals who can consistently produce on time and to budget results. Project Management has incorporated many changes into all industries. Some global changes include: Remote teams Advanced and up-to-date technology allows members of a team to work in many varied locations, with real-time communication to all areas of the world now available. This virtual project team style means that Project Managers can recruit anyone in the world with the required skill-set and a stable internet connection. Global opportunities China and India are now at the forefront of adopting the latest project management strategies, with Chinese management styles focussing on speed of delivery and trial-and-error tactics. India is now seen as a leader of project-management focussed employment, and handling crisis and conflict management in projects. Diversity Globalisation has opened the doors for project managers to be recruited from many countries. In the last 15 years, there has been consistent focus on becoming inclusive of gender, and cultural/religious backgrounds in Project Management positions. This brings new skills, styles of managing, and points of view to a project which can effectively improve quality, time and overall team cohesion. To find out more about how you can gain these much-needed and highly applicable skills today, enquire below for information on CAL’s Diploma of Project Management. Your Career in Project Management Do you want to learn more about project management skills employers demand, emerging job roles and salaries, and recent industry insights?  Discover your career in project management.  PROJECT MANAGEMENT CAREERS PAGE

How to get a High Salary Job in Project Management

There is a reason why Project Management and Management jobs are so popular in Australia. Both are highly transferable skills that can be applied to any sector across all Australian states and internationally. Growth in management and project management jobs In SEEK’s Top 20 Highest Paying Jobs comparing 2013 to 2018, Management now features in 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 8th, and 14th places. The change over five years sees one more job on the list, but more significantly, shows better overall growth in salary opportunity. Project Management also makes a strong appearance in 3 places, whereas in 2013 it was only featured twice . In 2013, it was only featured twice – at 13th and 18th. Both these metrics show that there has never been a better time to foster a career in management or project management. What's your Management Trajectory? Are you wondering how far away you are from your next promotion? Take our quiz to assess your management career pathway. GO TO QUIZ Where are the highest paying jobs? Management salaries in the top 20 range from $121,232 to $133,927 per year. These roles are in engineering, information and communication technology, mining, resource and energy, construction, insurance and superannuation, and consulting/strategy. Project Management also boasts great salary opportunities. The top 20 range is $120,554 to $124,603 across construction, engineering and ICT. Changing careers is the new norm The average person now spends 3.3 years in a job, making it normal to have three jobs per decade. For many school leavers, this translates into 17 different employers in a lifetime. Logically, it fits that most workers will also have up to 5 separate careers in their lifetime. Today’s workforce is very comfortable with retraining, career changing and shifting from employment to self-employment and back again. Technology combined with online access to education is making the transition between careers a seamless experience. A committed worker can undertake a qualification in management or project management while continuing to work in an existing job and fast-track a career into the top end of salary success. The average person now spends 3.3 years in a job, and up to 5 separate careers in their lifetime. Click To Tweet Transferable skills make a robust career Management and project management are both professions that boast highly transferable skills across all work sectors. Enjoying such flexible employment gives the benefit of being able to follow the sectors showing the most growth at any time. A recent Department of Employment Outlook reveals that over the past few decades, the Australian economy has continued to shift away from lower skilled jobs towards a higher skilled, service-based economy. Looking ahead, the evolution of the labour market towards higher skilled occupations looks set to continue, with employment growth projected to be strongest, in percentage terms, among the two highest skill levels of Bachelor and Diploma qualified workers. Pathways into management and project management If you are transitioning from another career path, then entry-level jobs with clear pathways to management and project management in associated areas are the best places to begin. For project management, these include areas where you can become familiar with budgets and procedures such as testing, finance, and business analysis. Having good communication skills is valuable too, such as customer service, sales and junior management experience. A management career is not always a straight line but is often characterised by milestones. These might be experience running your own business or your first promotion into a role where you supervise others. Many people develop management skills in volunteer roles in their community and then decide they want to move into management as a formal career. Whatever your pathway, the fastest way to accelerate your career and give you the confidence to succeed in management and project management is with a formal Diploma qualification such as a Diploma of Leadership & Management (BSB50420) or Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820) from a respected training provider. No matter what your experience or background, a foundation qualification will open many more doors for you. You want to be doing all you can to put yourself in front of the right people who can mentor you in your journey to those top 20 salary roles.

Project Management News and Opportunities 2018

Opportunities and salaries continue to grow A recent salary survey conducted by SEEK confirms that Australia is now the number one country in the world for the highest paid project management practitioners. The average project management salary is an attractive $134,659. A quick scan of Project Managers job vacancies (in Australia) reveals the following sectors are still heavily recruiting project managers: IT – 5,780 job vacancies Construction and engineering – 2,800 job vacancies Oil and Gas – 780 job vacancies Project Management salaries are commensurate with experience. Entry level Project Managers in Construction can expect a starting salary of $74,000. Salary levels can rise considerably for experienced project manager from between $200,000 to $250,000. Australia currently has the highest paid project management practitioners in the world. - SEEK Click To Tweet Management Job Trend – Skills A growing number of management positions are now asking for project management skills. Organisations are becoming more project focused and are looking for consistent project success rates. Work is more global and complex, and skilled hands – especially those with Project Management skills – are growing in demand. Project Management Opportunities Australia While looking at the opportunities in your chosen sectors, don’t limit your choices to jobs that are only available locally. Consider the growth of your sector in all states. Two states showing high demand for project practitioners are NT and WA The Northern Territory is showing up as the growth area for construction, engineering and the mining industry – as much as 2.7%, and salaries are already higher than other states to attract professionals to more remote areas. ((SEEK Australia, 2018)) The resurgence in mining in Western Australia has improved wages by 3.4%. There are currently 851 Project Management jobs available in WA and a further 128 across a varied range of sectors in the Northern Territory. If you are looking for higher salaries, then these states could be considered.   Overseas A 2018 study by the Project Management Institute in 37 countries and across 33,000 qualified professionals, showed: More than two-thirds of survey participants (70%) report that their total compensation increased over 12 months. About one-quarter (26%) reported increases of at least 5%. The median salary for project managers was highest in Switzerland: US$130,866. Across all countries, salary increases with added responsibility. The most dramatic increase is in Nigeria where the median salary increases from US$13,079 for a Project Manager I to US$20,735 for a Project Manager II and US$30,305 for a Project Manager III. A quick look at Project manager vacancies in the United Kingdom alone shows there are currently 71,675 positions available. India is expected to need 70 million skilled Project Managers in the next ten years if it wants to avoid delays and budget blow-outs in infrastructure, IT and Manufacturing. Indian companies are already offering some of the highest salaries for Project Managers in Asia. Qualified Australian Project Managers are already highly respected in this region. Future Opportunities By 2020, 15.7 million new project management roles are predicted, and the profession is expected to grow by US$6.61 trillion. In current numbers, demand will indeed outstrip supply. In 10 countries (Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Germany, India, Japan, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom) project management roles are expected to grow by 13.4 million by 2020. By 2020, it is predicted that there will be 15.7 million new project management roles globally. Click To Tweet In the United States, (usually the benchmark for project management demand), this growth will mean: Rising salaries Growth in the project-intensive sectors of manufacturing, business services, finance and insurance, oil and gas, information services, construction and utilities As many industries become project focused, the growing talent gap will drive Australian salaries in the direction of many overseas countries. Growing Project Management Sectors Following is a list of sectors in Australia that have the fastest growing demand for Project Managers. Mining Engineering Banking and Finance Medical Healthcare Construction Oil and Gas Information Technology Parks and Wildlife/Environmental Protection Local Government This list is expected to keep expanding. Emerging sectors are: Agribusiness – owing to the growing dependence of the rural sector on Information Technology and Artificial Intelligence Defence – which has an increasing reliance on outsourcing many functions that were traditionally performed in-house. The changes in business worldwide to rely more on a project-based approach, reliance on Information Technology and Artificial Intelligence, and teams working remotely – are increasing complexity in the workplace and opening the gateways for project management opportunities. Qualified and experienced Project Managers have the skills, both personal and technical to harness the opportunities this provides now and well into the future.

Quality Auditing and Project Management 101

How quality auditing and project management go hand-in-hand Quality audits are a necessary part of a project life cycle and need to be a pre-planned part of project management processes. Quality audits will be conducted internally and externally by a qualified auditing manager and/or an audit team. Quality auditors champion quality and compliance while pioneering continuous improvement. They work with a project management team to ensure a robust quality management system and meet any quality system standards, such as ISO 9001. Therefore, the standards can be self-determined as well as set by an industry. Four key elements of a project management quality audit: They are structured and planned Completely independent Involve vigorous process Present documented conclusions A well-led quality audit will independently determine if a project activity complies with the policies, procedures, and processes of the organisation or project. A quality audit is a documented assessment that will reveal a level of conformance or non-conformance to requirements of a system, process or product. Projects may require more than one type of quality audit. The types of quality audits will depend on the industry where the project is being conducted. Construction and building projects will require a different audit schedule to software development projects. Therefore, the actual audit schedule should be planned in advance as part of the project management scope. Examples of quality audits are: Prequalification/pre-selection audits Third-party audits for certification purposes General internal project audits Specific internal audits from a parent company or joint venture company Project Manager audits requested by the client Work-Audits which may involve an on-site quality tour/walk Unplanned audits in reaction to a request or incident Quality auditing will uncover both the good and the shortcomings of a project Project managers will receive vital information about: The good and best practices being implemented in the organisation or project The non-conformities, shortcoming, and gaps in the project The good practices found within the organisation and project Recommendations to improve the implementation of different processes to raise the productivity of the team Quality audits are aimed at correcting any deficiencies in the project that may result in the reduction of the cost of quality. Practically speaking, a quality audit will ensure: Deliverables are fit for use and meet safety standards Adherence to applicable laws and standards Corrective action is recommended and implemented where necessary The Quality Plan is followed correctly from the beginning Quality improvements are identified sooner Implementation of approved changes occurs in the right way Why project managers need to encourage quality audits The way quality audits are planned and approached will affect the entire project life-cycle. Successful audit planning will result in: Pre-defined standards that will impact the way the project is planned Quality requirements for specific work packages and deliverables are identified in advance Procedures being followed at all stages Identifying which Quality Methods must be defined and followed Completed work and deliverables reviewed for compliance Quality audits in project management should be an underlying framework and provide a set of rules to apply to the project’s Quality Management processes.  

Project Management Career Trends

7 keys to growing your career in project management The Project Management Institute Job Growth Report, 2017, estimates that by 2027, just ten years from now, there will be 87.7 million individuals working in project management orientated roles globally. These seven key 2018 Project Management trends highlight that ongoing education is key to becoming an experienced stand-out in this growing career sector.   1. Increased Opportunity Rachel Burger, PM expert at Capterra, says a business agile approach to project management across all business areas will be the focus of 2018. Project Managers will be sought as advisers across the entire business. There is also an emerging need for a hybrid blend between agile and classic PM styles, and those who cope with bridging this need will see their career’s flourish.Johann Strasser, Partner at TPG a US-based equity and project management firm, believes the availability of staff will remain a critical factor in project planning with the struggle for good staff intensifying in years to come, creating more opportunities for those looking for a project management career. 2. Internet of Things and Artificial Intelligence, and Machine Learning Get ready for more acronyms – IoT, AI and ML, and even ‘iotaiml’ are here to stay. From multi-nationals to small business there will be more business units and projects ‘touching the tech’ than ever before via software and services. Advances in PM software will include using AI in tasks such as knowledge management, talent matching, and creating reports. IoT connects anything with an on/off switch to the internet and to each other. It is being used in security systems, lighting, clocks, appliances and more. New PM positions will be created to manage the increased load of data collection and machine learning protocols. 3. Other Technology Advances Wearables – A recent study on wearable technologies by US firm, Research, and Markets, reports that wearable technology improves the ‘productivity and efficiency in industrial sectors’. The use of smart glasses, wrist-worn devices, and head-mounted displays serves to increase safety while reducing error rates. Driverless cars – Project Management needs to be bracing now for the impact of driverless technology, as major tech and automotive companies compete to gain traction in what will be a worldwide market. 4. Knowledge Collaboration The trend to achieving project goals by collaboration continues as knowledge silos are being left in the past. Complex projects still require expert knowledge, but specialists need to think outside the box and be consultative to achieve their milestones. The all-rounder project manager who can understand and link dependencies between specialist areas will be highly sought after in 2018 and beyond. 5. Embracing Diversity 2017’s trend of Emotional Intelligence in Project Management deepens into diversity in 2018. Topics such as ability, age, ethnicity, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, and class are permeating every business area, and Project Management is next. There are new are opportunities available as the industry expands and welcomes this trend. Download our FREE 'Your Career in Project Management' Guide Find the latest information in our eBook about a career in project management, including current job opportunities, skills you need, salary information and more. DOWNLOAD MY FREE GUIDE 6. Millennial Project Managers By 2020, Millennials will make up half the global labour force, and by 2030, they’ll account for 75%. Coupled with the increasing numbers of Millennials in the workplace is Gen-X and Baby Boomers retiring from work. The Project Management Institute states that retirement is the main reason why project management positions are opening, with 97% of these in manufacturing and 54% in IT. Millennials are maturing in age and career milestones, and their experience will qualify them with credits towards a PMP career. Their use of cloud, collaboration and inclusiveness make them highly desirable employees or consultants. 7. Resource Management Often hidden within Project Management, resource management and planning are going to be in demand in 2018. Johann Strasser at TPG Equity says to ‘plan for complete resource utilization’, including the resourcing all available staff with relevant team planning aligned to project planning. Automation and cloud-based systems will increasingly be employed to manage resources effectively. Uk based firm, Wellington Project Management recently published their ‘The State of Project Management Annual Report 2017’, in which project management maturity is highlighted as a gap. Instead of taking on too many projects, without having the staff and maturity to balance, they believe 2018 will be about prioritising projects and working smarter to achieve them, realistically using the resources available. Work/life balance and workplace mental health is being seen as a priority over burnt-out and over-leveraged project teams. Australian Project Management opportunities continue to increase and follow the 2018 Project Management trends seen in USA, UK and Asia. The best place to grow your career in project management is with The College for Adult Learning, certification and diploma courses.  

Starting Out as a Project Manager? Here’s What to Expect

  The professional life of a project manager consists of responsibility and discipline. Not only this – if you want to be a good project manager, you need to be ready for new challenges, find a suitable solution, conquer it, and move on to the next one. As a Project Manager or we should say “Project Superhero”, you need to juggle several challenges at once without sacrificing on parameters that can hamper the projects. You must be willing to wear many hats at a time, that too without feeling frustrated or burned out. All these requirements are only a tip of the iceberg and before you start, you must have a rough idea of what is expected of a project manager to do justice to your role. In this blog post, we discuss what you can expect from your role as a Project Manager. Take a look.   Multitasking Is a Part of the Job You’ve probably read dozens of articles online that are all about how unproductive multitasking is. Well, this is true – your mind functions way better if you’re focused on one thing at a time. Otherwise, you’ll be in a constant state of confusion. If you want to be a project manager, you should know that multitasking is an integral and undetachable part of the job. However, unlike most careers, you need to conquer multitasking and extract confusion from your mind. Using a good project management software with the right methodology can help in this case as you can assign multiple tasks to your team members and track each of them under one hood without losing focus. Another fact is that it won’t be expected from you to remember all the information – if you start working for a serious company, you’ll be equipped with an appropriate tool.   You Need to Be Kind but Authoritative If you become a project manager, you should be aware of the fact the decisions you need to make won’t be easy. This is because you always need to strive towards a balance between kindness and authority. In order to do your job, you need to be both. A project manager who’s not a figure of authority won’t be able to delegate tasks and responsibilities. When this is the case, the whole company will suffer because you won’t be able to meet your deadlines. On the other hand, if your approach isn’t empathetic, you’ll put too much pressure on employees that they can’t handle.  This will ultimately lead to poor delivery quality that impacts your business reputation as well as the bottom line. So, you need to be kind but authoritative simultaneously. Naturally, you still need to remind yourself that you’re in your office for business purposes – too much kindness can lead to unproductivity. Give leeway to people to do tasks on their pace, but inform them in advance if you are pressed for deadlines.     People Skills Are a Must When it comes to people skills, we already listed empathy is a mandatory one. Without it, you won’t be able to determine which employees are troubled with their tasks, and you won’t be able to help them with their work process. Besides this, you should also have fantastic communication skills.  There will be times when you will be handling frustration on the floor or with stakeholders. You will be that medium between stakeholders, your boss, and the rest of the team. Until you learn to pacify situations, chances of succeeding as a project manager are quite lean. If by any chance a misunderstanding occurs between these parties, you’ll be the first one to take the bullet. It’s obvious that you need to be seriously responsible in order to be a good project manager. This isn’t a job for quiet introverts – you need to put yourself out there and pull your weight.   Strategy Development Will Be a Routine Whenever there’s a new set of tasks coming in, you’ll be the one in charge of processing the raw material and turning it into a project that’s broken down into small tasks. Naturally, you won’t be dealing with one project at a time, which makes this harder. Therefore, you’ll have to work with intertwined timelines of different projects. Your objective is to deliver your part of the deal within the deadline. You’ll also need to be positive that the quality of your deliveries is in accordance with the criteria of your company. So, you’ll need to be a strategist. Every task within every project needs to have its place in a complex timeline, and you’ll be the one responsible for making that happen.   You Will Have to Prioritize Which brings me to the next point – you need to learn to prioritize. Of course, each stakeholder you’ll be working with will consider themselves a priority. Your job is to make sure they really believe that by making your delivery on time. However, what happens inside your office is a different thing. The list of your priorities needs to be influenced by two factors: You need to include the complexity of the project into account. You need to make sure you’ll meet your deadline. These two thoughts must be in your mind at all times if you want to be able to create a complex timeline of tasks that will function.   You’ll Mediate Between Different Parties Not only will you have to communicate with internal teams, but you’ll also have to be in touch with your leaders and stakeholders – like mentioned above. However, the reason why we’re returning to the subject is the nature of that communication. You’ll have to use a different vocabulary when you talk to these parties. Employees require a more casual tone, and your business leaders will ask you to deliver reports. Other than reports, you will also find yourself negotiating with stakeholders. Therefore, resourcefulness and the ability to adopt are quite necessary here.     Software Will Be Your Best Friend In the introduction, we mentioned project management software. In order to be able to do your job, you will need a powerful tool that will enable you to:         delegate tasks         keep track of everything that’s going on         and monitor deadlines Not only that your tool needs to have appropriate features that will enable you to do your job, but it also needs to be simple to navigate. So, you need easy project management software that doesn’t require a demanding learning curve or complex technical knowledge. Download our FREE 'Your Career in Project Management' Guide Find the latest information in our eBook about a career in project management, including current job opportunities, skills you need, salary information and more. DOWNLOAD MY FREE GUIDE Now when you know what to expect from a career in project management, you’ll be able to determine if this is a calling for you. Although this isn’t an easy job, it’s very rewarding. If you can handle the pressure, the feeling of accomplishment after you end each project will be quite motivational.     About the author David is a technical writer, his works are regularly published in various papers and top-notch portals. His rich experience in Project management domain helps him offer latest and fresh perspective on improved efficiency in workflows across organizations. His informative works on similar lines can be reached out on ProProfs Project.    

Start Your Career in Project Management

3 Must Have Assets for a Career in Project Management A career in project management is simultaneously challenging and stimulating, where every day brings with it unique obstacles to conquer. This career path best suits those who are fascinated by the ‘how’ of making things, have a penchant for planning and like to liaise with all the people within a given company, from the factory hand to the CEO. Project managers in Australia can expect a minimum average wage of $105,000, according to seek.com, and Project Management Institute (PMI) has confirmed that Australian project managers are the most highly paid worldwide, with an average salary of over $134,000. Just like any management position, it requires a combination of personality traits, higher level qualifications and solid on-the-job experience to create a successful project manager. 1. The Right Personality Traits When selecting a career path, a good place to start is by aligning your own strengths with attributes required of entry-level candidates. Project managers require a number of personal characteristics, as the role is a broad one. Being a good communicator who is able to not only get a message to the right people, but also deliver it in an inspiring way, will take you a long way with project management. Project managers are also natural born leaders, meaning that delegating tasks to a team of professionals is no cause for concern. If you find yourself leaning towards keeping records, calendars and even diaries throughout your daily life, then a career in project management may just be the fit for you. Pressure and deadlines don’t faze you, because you have meticulously planned your projects to a tee. 2. High Level Qualifications Project management courses, such as a Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820), are a launchpad from which graduates can enter into a prosperous future career. Not only will it teach the fundamental basics of the industry, it also gives students a chance to rub shoulders with future contacts, and gain some hands-on experience with simulation projects, which can be vital when conveying experience for entry-level roles. Project management can seem like it uses an entirely different language to the uninitiated—particularly some of the methodology lingo, but by the end of your studies, you will be an expert in the most popular project management methodologies. 3. A Mentor By Your Side Starting out along a career path can be a confusing process. Students and ambitious graduates who manage to find a mentor to take them under their wing will be granted the reassurance of always being able to turn to someone. Not to mention the huge career lift and networking opportunities. A mentor may come in the form of a lecturer/tutor, an employer, or simply someone you meet who works in the industry. Be sure to approach potential mentors with a value proposition: in return for their wisdom, teachings and guidance, you will be able to complete tasks of greater and greater significance for them. Top 7 Project Management Methodologies to Learn It’s no secret that project management is a very process-driven industry. For anyone just starting a career in project management, the language coupled with the sheer number of perspectives can be overwhelming. Exactly which processes are deemed the most appropriate in any given situation will depend on who you talk to. However, any study within the field will develop an understanding of a wide variety of models. By undertaking adult education courses within the sector, such as a Diploma of Project Management, you will be exposing yourself to all of the following processes, software, tools, and many more. With this wealth of knowledge to draw from, it then takes an experienced project manager to determine the right fit for the project at hand. Waterfall The waterfall model is seen as the traditional project management methodology, dating back as early as 1956 and first used for the manufacturing and construction industries. It is a sequential process, whereby progress cascades through the phases of conception, initiation, analysis, design, construction, testing, production and maintenance. While still important to understand and implement in some instances, this method notably lacks a way to address modern software development challenges. Agile Agile software development is a broader term used for methodologies for projects which are largely flexible, evolutionary, or agile. It demands collaborative efforts from teams, focusing particularly on adaptive planning and continuous improvement, with notable features including a short-term delivery cycle, dynamic team culture, and real-time communication. Scrum Scrum is a specific form of Agile software development, where three to nine developers work together as a team toward a common goal. The work is broken down into cycles, ranging between one and four weeks, with daily progress checks. The Scrum approach hinges on removing all possible barriers to productivity, as well as accepting that change during the process is unavoidable, and therefore the process must be adaptive. PRiSM PRiSM is an acronym for Projects integrating Sustainable Methods, and as such, places a large emphasis on minimising environmental footprints. Typically implemented for large-scale projects, it is particularly popular for real estate development or infrastructure projects which are at higher risk of harming the environment. PRINCE2 Projects In Controlled Environments, version 2, is a structured method which favours the division of projects into manageable tasks, based on the notion that smaller tasks are easier to control. This method focuses on ensuring that projects have justified business outcomes and contribute value by identifying needs, target customers, benefits and cost assessments. Kanban Kanban, a form of Agile software development, prioritises the idea of steady workflow with rolling deliverables. It helps to identify where time is being wasted, and therefore which area needs attention in the delivery chain. A popular example may be of a whiteboard with ‘planned’, ‘in progress’, and ‘delivered’ columns, where magnets, notes or words are progressed through the process. Download our FREE 'Your Career in Project Management' Guide Find the latest information in our eBook about a career in project management, including current job opportunities, skills you need, salary information and more. DOWNLOAD MY FREE GUIDE Six Sigma Six Sigma, first developed in the 1980s, is a process which seeks to eliminate defects and minimise variability of output. Each project is broken down into a number of improvement areas, defined by specific value targets, each with their own expert team. Different people take responsibility for each area—for example, reducing production time to a certain timeframe. Your Entry Pathway Into Project Management Study The project management industry is experiencing ongoing growth, while PWC reports a shortage of qualified personnel in this area. The demand for skilled professionals is therefore extremely high. There are multiple entry points for those who have identified project management as a career conducive to their innate and learned skills. Certificate IV in Project Management Practice A Certificate IV in Project Management Practice (BSB40920) is an entry-level adult education course designed for those looking to shift career paths toward project management, those just starting out in project management, or those looking to strengthen an existing basic project management knowledge base. Completion of this course would prepare graduates for an entry-level role, such as an assistant or support staff to a project management professional. On-the-job learning Armed with a Certificate IV in Project Management Practice and an entry-level support role, ambitious employees will find that they have the pillars in place to progress up the corporate project management ladder. Some common starting points in the workplace are: Project Coordinator Assistant/Junior Project Manager Project Analyst Project Control Specialist Work Process Manager Project Lead Diploma of Project Management A Diploma of Project Management is widely regarded as the industry standard qualification for project managers. Completion of this adult education course ensures that graduates have a well-rounded understanding of the process lifecycle, phases, and various methodologies used for different projects. However, this is not an entry-level course, and students must have either completed a Certificate IV in Project Management Practice, or possess equivalent career experience within project management. For those with their sights set on the Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820), you may want to research your dual study options, as you can progress from Certificate through to Diploma-level studies quite easily. You can study the Diploma of Project Management online (BSB50820), during hours that suit your lifestyle. Further Study While the Diploma and Certificate IV are recognised nationally, specific Certifications may vary. Perhaps you have had a few years of broad project management experience, but want to return to study to specialise in a certain area, or brush up on newly introduced methodologies. In this case, you might look to study a specific PRINCE2 or Agile Certification, for example. These are endorsed by professional project management bodies, and that body will determine where your Certification will apply. The Australian Institute of Project Management is the recognised local body, whereas Project Management Institute is the most popular in America and these qualifications are recognised worldwide.   Beyond Certificates, Diplomas and specialised Certifications, there is ongoing opportunity to progress your project management career through study. Postgraduate study options are becoming more mainstream for project management professionals in Australia. There are also further still specialisations, not necessarily on methodologies, but on specific skill sets, such as quality auditing. From there, it is a matter of transitioning into program management, portfolio management and eventually on to project director. The sky’s the limit in a career in project management.

How To Become A Project Manager

In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving professional landscape, a Project Manager is a crucial component of almost every organisation. As projects become increasingly complex, companies are realising the importance of skilled professionals within multiple industries.  Project management is a dynamic and rewarding career path that requires a unique blend of skills, knowledge and experience. Becoming a Project Manager is a fantastic choice with a range of career opportunities that will allow you to pursue your goals. Start your exciting journey towards becoming a Project Manager with CAL.  What does a Project Manager do? A project manager is responsible for overseeing and coordinating the various aspects of a project from its inception to completion. They play a crucial role in planning, organising, and executing projects within specific timeliness, budgets, and quality standards.  A project manager’s responsibilities encompass a wide range of tasks, including defining project objectives, developing detailed plans, allocating resources, managing risks, communicating with stakeholders, and monitoring progress. They act as a central point of contact, facilitating effective collaboration among team members and ensuring that everyone is working towards the project’s goals.  A project manager also monitors project metrics, analyses data, and adjusts plans as necessary to ensure successful project delivery. Their strong leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills are vital in navigating challenges, resolving conflicts, and keeping the project on track.  Become a qualified Project Manager The best way to become a Project Manager is with a Nationally Recognised Qualification. The Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820) has been designed in consultation with industry experts, equipping graduates with the complete range of skills needed to be high-performing project managers.  If you don’t have prior experience in projects or management, consider a Certificate IV in Project Management Practice (BSB40920). This course has been designed to equip you with the complete range of skills needed to enter project management in any field, including project scoping, scheduling, and quality planning.  On the other hand, if you’re looking to utilise your experience and skills in a specific field of project management, like construction, the Diploma of Project Management (Specialising in Construction) (BSB50820) might be the right qualification for you. Project management diplomas are an excellent way to develop key skills in project planning and delivery, human resource management, stakeholder communication and WHS management. This project management diploma has a particular focus on applying these skills to construction projects. Register for national accreditation CAL has received endorsement for our Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820) online course from the Australian Institute of Project Management (AIPM), the premier, longest-serving body for project management in Australia. Having passed a rigorous review by AIPM auditors, adding an AIPM-endorsed diploma to your repertoire demonstrates your commitment to project management professional development and the elevation of industry practices. AIPM Memberships for CAL Students We're excited to offer students studying the Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820) or the Diploma of Project Management (specialising in Construction) (BSB50820) with CAL a FREE one-year AIPM Student Membership. Australian Institute of Project Management (AIPM) is the premier, longest-serving body for project management in Australia. AIPM is made up of nearly 8000 project professionals, across Australia and internationally. As an AIPM Member, you'll enjoy: Access to largest most exclusive online community of project managers Certification and Industry recognition at a Certified Practising Project Practitioner (CPPP) level Online access to project management resources and templates Access to career opportunities through personalised and curated online jobs marketplace Invitation to exclusive member-only events Events and webinars at discounted rates How long does it take to become a Project Manager? The time it takes to become a project manager can vary depending on a range of factors such as past education and work experience. Generally, acquiring the right qualification and experience to become a professional project manager will take at least a year. This includes building up relevant experience needed on top of any formal qualifications needed.  The bonus of studying a qualification at the College for Adult Learning is that you can study your project management qualification at your pace, and fit it in with your life. This means you can gain a Nationally Recognised Qualification in project management whilst simultaneously gaining the relevant work experience.  What skills do I need? Becoming a successful project manager requires a diverse set of skills that encompasses both technical and interpersonal abilities. First and foremost, strong leadership skills are essential for guiding and motivating teams towards project goals. Effective communication skills are vital to facilitate clear and open communication with stakeholders, team members, and clients.  Project managers must also possess excellent organisational and time management skills to ensure efficient project planning, resource allocation, and task prioritisation. They need to have a keen eye for detail and be able to manage complex project documentation, budgets, and schedules. Problem-solving and critical thinking skills are crucial for identifying and addressing project challenges and risks. Additionally, project managers should be adept at negotiation and conflict resolution to navigate potential conflicts and maintain team cohesion. Adaptability and flexibility are valuable traits in handling unexpected charges and setbacks.  Finally, a Project Manager should possess a strong understanding of project management methodologies and tools to effectively plan, execute, and monitor projects. Developing and honing these skills through experience, qualifications and continuous learning is key to thriving as a project manager.  How much does a Project Manager earn in Australia? Salaries in project management vary depending on qualification level, industry, and past experience. However, on average, a project manager in Australia can expect to earn $101,000* a year.  *Payscale Career pathways in Project Management With an expected growth of 9.3% over the next 5 years*, Project Management is a great choice for those looking for longevity and security within their career. You’ll gain interchangabale skills across industries and roles, offering a vast amount of pathways for every step of your career and learning journey.   *Seek  Entry-level positions such as a Project Coordinator role are great if you don’t have the experience behind you, but have a qualification like the Certificate IV in Project Management Practice (BSB40920). You can earn on average $67,000* a year as a Project Coordinator, a very lucrative first step for those wanting to start their new project management career.  *Payscale From here, a Senior Project Administrator position is perfect after a year or two in the industry, or after you’ve gained your project management diploma. In this role, you can expect to earn $86,000* a year. A Senior Project Administrator oversees and manages the execution of complex projects, and can often work as a ‘right hand man’ to the Project Manager.  *Glassdoor The added benefit of project management is that you can take your skills into multiple industries. After a minimum of 2 years experience, you can enter senior roles such as a Construction Project Manager, earning on average $125,000* a year. A construction project manager is responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing all aspects of construction projects, as well as communicating with stakeholders and ensuring successful completion of the project.  *Seek If you’re ready to start your career in Project Management, consider a qualification at the College for Adult Learning. Download our free Your Career in Project Management to find out why this industry is one to get into, and how you can start a new job as a Project Manager.  Download our FREE 'Your Career in Project Management' Guide Find the latest information in our eBook about a career in project management, including current job opportunities, skills you need, salary information and more. DOWNLOAD MY FREE GUIDE

2017 Trends in Project Management Jobs

Project Management jobs in Australia continue to rise and demand for qualified project managers remains high. Australian project management market trends The mining/resources boom may be over; however, project management jobs are strong in all capital cities, particularly along the east coast of Australia. Fly-in, fly-out jobs and contract placements have reduced, with a move to fixed term contracts and permanent roles that began in the latter half of 2016. The Morgan McKinley’s salary guide for IT and Business Transformation notes, “A key factor to this trend is also related to cost efficiency, as well as a need for some organisations to address the balance of permanent to contract ratios, where they had too heavy a reliance on contracts and were losing expertise from the business as a result.” Optimum Consulting’s ‘Job Outlook in Australia 2016-2020’ report states: “We’ve also seen an increase in demand for skilled project managers who can either execute a smooth project from start to finish, or salvage a project that has gone off the rails, whether it is in IT, engineering, HR, or accounting and finance.” Candidates with diploma qualifications are in high demand The report goes on to highlight the importance of Diploma qualification in project management: “It is challenging for candidates without qualifications in this current economic climate as the pendulum has swung towards the employer who has the luxury to be quite fussy when recruiting some roles where candidates are plentiful.  Sometimes a qualification is the difference.  More and more of our job orders from clients strongly prefer a degree or similar academic qualification… For graduates of VET study, salaries varied significantly depending upon the level of qualification from $46,300 for Certificate I to over $60,000 for Certificate IV or Diploma qualification.” The current Project Management job market in Australia The beginning of 2017 sees over 10,000 Australian jobs available in Project Management. The average PM jobs available broken across industry sectors are: IT and Communications Tech 2300 Construction 2000 Engineering 1200 Marketing 575 Government and Defence 500 Accounting and Finance 400 Human Resources, Logistics, Resources, Healthcare, Real Estate, Sales, Trades, Architecture, Administration 200 in each   Project Management Jobs by State: NSW 4772 VIC 2590 QLD 1250 SA 330 WA 630 NT 69 TAS 28   2017 Project Management jobs over $150,000 available across industry sectors are: IT and Communications 980 Construction 600 Engineering 290 Accounting and Finance 100 Consulting and Strategy 70 Resources 60   Higher paying Project Management positions by State: NSW 1200 VIC 580 QLD 270 SA 63 WA 141 NT 13 TAS 2   Key takeaways: The east coast of Australia remains the highest employer of project managers in Australia. IT and Communications, Construction and Engineering hold the bulk of senior paying positions. There are over 1400 jobs in Marketing, Government/Defence, Accounting/Finance for a range of experience levels. There are plenty of positions available in other sectors for qualified candidates. 2017 Project Management Salaries 2017 Project Management salaries vary depending on the experience of the candidate, the location of job and industry sector. The ‘Hays Salary Check’ reveals the following breakdown by industry for Project Management positions in Sydney: Average PM salary in IT sector – $125,000 up to $150,000 Average PM salary in Construction sector – $175,000 up to $200,000 Average PM salary in Engineering Building Services – $110,000 up to $130,000 The ‘Hudson Salary Calculator’ shows the following Project Management salary information: Project Management – between $85,000 – $260,000 pa salary, or $60-$130hr for Contracting Senior Project Management – from $115,000 pa upwards, or $80-$150hr Contracting Junior/Assistant Project Management – between $60,000 – $100,000 pa How to secure your career in Project Management 2017 prospects are exciting for Project Management in Australia. With an attitude swing towards grooming and retaining talent within companies, rather than using consultants, now is the time to advance your career with a Diploma of Project Management from The College for Adult Learning. We have resources for employers who may be looking to fund employees, as well as information on how to fast-track your diploma with credits based on your previous experience.

5 Tips for Starting a Career in Project Management

A career in project management can be a demanding role but it can also be extremely rewarding. When starting out there are many questions and challenges to face and they are all different based on your particular background and situation. Seeing a project from start to finish and through all of the ups and down can be a hugely satisfying process. The world of project management is extensive, with many various career paths and opportunities. 1. Get Qualified If you are looking to follow a prosperous career in project management then getting a qualification is a great place to start. A qualification in project management shows potential employers that you are serious about your career and the discipline of project management and also that you are both qualified and competent to do the job and have the correct set of skills required. The Diploma of Project Management is a great course available online for your convenience. This allows those who work full or part time in a current job the ability to retain their work whilst studying. With the availability of flexible online courses means it is now easier than ever to start your new career in project management. If you are looking to fill any knowledge gaps and supplement your experience with additional training, courses are available in all forms from night classes to online courses, to help bring all aspiring project managers up to speed. Download our FREE 'Your Career in Project Management' Guide Find the latest information in our eBook about a career in project management, including current job opportunities, skills you need, salary information and more. DOWNLOAD MY FREE GUIDE 2. Key Attributes There are several key personal attributes that will help you become a successful project manager.First and foremost you will need to be a good communicator and with this be able to inspire and team of people. To become a project manager you will need to be able to effectively lead a team, therefore superior management skills and the ability to motivate and delegate tasks is highly essential. Project managers are also required to work well under pressure and always striving to meet the objectives of the client. Honesty and positivity is also extremely important, if you don’t know the answer or have done something wrong, do not be afraid to admit this. Even though you are managing a team, you are not expected to know everything and you will get a lot of respect from others if you are being honest with them. Staying positive in all situations will keep your team motivated and this will impress stakeholders and secure future projects. 3. Get Focused Although you will use the same fundamental skills and processes across projects, don’t be afraid to pursue one specific area. A great project manager should be able to manage projects across any industry but many will choose to specialise in one area of project management to really hone in on their skills. Take the time to figure out which types of projects you would like to manage and focus your learning to know as much about that industry as you can. 4. Learn How to Communicate A huge portion of a project manager’s work is communicating with team members and project stakeholders. For instance, if something was to unexpectedly happen during project execution and the project manager realised there may be a delay in the completion date. A great project manager will need to communicate this information as soon as possible to all those involved. Different stakeholders need to be approached differently and may need phone calls or personal visits to reassure them. 5. Find a Mentor A mentor can be a huge boost to your career goals if you can find one. You can find mentors by networking locally or online. Be sure to approach these mentors in the right way and offer benefit to them in exchange for their advice. Your main goal should be to offer valuable assistance to potential mentors, with the hope they will reciprocate by sharing their lessons learned. Rather than asking to shadow them why not ask if they have any tasks that you could do for them. If you are a project team member and looking to advance in your career, ask if you can help compile the status report or take minutes during project meetings.   A career in project management is vast, with many various career paths and opportunities to choose from. With these tips, you should be ready to make your entrance.  

5 Trends to Transform Project Management in 2016

There is an exciting transformation taking place in the project management landscape in 2016 as the result of changes to business practices, requirements and expectations. The advancements of the current market will continue to influence how businesses need to adapt and manage their projects. As clients, stakeholders, businesses, government and environmental expectations change and develop the importance of project management certifications, technical expertise and training will be in high demand. To prepare for what is ahead, here is a list of the 5 trends to transform project management in 2016. Preference for Qualified Project Managers Due to an increased scrutiny of project management processes and the policies within a company, business executives will move towards qualified project managers. Although there will still be project managers without qualifications, job opportunities without a qualification will become increasingly more scarce and eventually, businesses may not consider applicants without any qualifications for project management roles. For those studying the Diploma of Project Management, this will equip students with the skills and knowledge recognised as essential for all project managers both in the Australian workplace and globally. In addition, project manager qualifications and technical training, soft skills and solid communication will continue to increase in value. A major aspect of project management is suited to people who are affected greatly by interactions with various people. These soft skills include the ability to resolve conflict, diplomacy, ambiguity and confidentiality. This will be at the foreground as more projects are globally implemented, and will transform language and cultural barriers. Project managers need to develop constructive and encouraging ways to address issues when they arise. Soft skills are not easily found and are becoming more in high demand. Additional highly valuable soft skills include agility, adaptability, ability to refocus efforts and well as a sound judgement. Focus on Strategy Over Projects There are numerous factors impacting businesses: competition, limited resources, time and budgetary constraints. Executives will need to transform their project management teams to focus all efforts on meeting business targets and goals. Project managers will need to focus their attentions away from industry related data that sometimes guides benchmarks when planning and focus more on precise business strengths and weaknesses to determine the best opportunities to reach specifically identified objectives. It is important to reach overall business strategy instead of individual department goals to increase the overall strength of the company. It will also be of interest for individuals as they will be selected upon merit for specific goals based on their high value core strengths in relation to business requirements. By taking this more focused approach to strategy over projects can optimise resources, time and budgets. Increased Emphasis on Mobile 2015 was the year of the smartphone app in project management, and this is sure to continue and evolve into 2016. With the workforce becoming more widely dispersed on mobile, means that apps will continue to grow increasingly more complex and will rely less on terminal based systems for accessing information. Utilising the correct technology can make or break a project’s schedule, budget and overall success. At the end of 2016, we are expecting to see the use of computers for managing project processes to become much more obsolete than the present day. Companies are looking to actively re-engineer a core business process to achieve business mobility and will continue to undergo a major strategic mobile shift in the upcoming months. Project managers will be responsible for leading this strategic mobile shift that will have an immediate ripple effect on all the phases of the project lifecycle from development through the implementation of deployment. Subsequently, security policies and procedures will need to be enforced to keep client data secure. Growth of a Virtual Team: Remote Project Management Teams It has become increasingly common for organisations to begin moving more and more to geographically, dispersed teams. We are currently moving towards an industry where project managers and teams may never have to meet face to face. We anticipate relying more on offshore development teams who can provide excellent development services at the fraction of the price of highly priced co-located project teams. In reality, project teams rarely need to meet together at the same time so this will allow project managers and project teams to work remotely. Hiring managers are looking to fill jobs ranging from programming to content writing to graphic design and consequently project teams are becoming increasingly more distributed across multiple geographic locations and time zones. To enable better collaboration between these distant team members, project managers are relying on social media and software that includes chat and message boards and we predict within a few years this will become the standard practice. IoT and Big Data The Internet of Things (IoT) and Big Data were the buzzwords of 2015 and this will continue in 2016. IoT is going to have a profound impact on project management whereby companies can track and control their assets remotely such as devices, vehicles and buildings. As the IoT grows, the role of the project manager will become increasingly more important as they have the necessary skills to manage the challenges of integrating it into existing systems and to handle all the data it produces. Working seamlessly alongside IoT is the issue of Big Data. Big Data is crucial for project management as it improves efficiency and accuracy, but will provide many challenges in the future as we will need to find ways to collect, collate and interpret all this new data and information. Project managers are continually looking to advance data response rates and bring structure to the extensive amount of data that it offers. Although, the more data we have access to means cyber security is to become a top priority. Project management historically focused on physical factors and aspects to ensure a project stays within budget and time constraints. However, Big Data saw the arrival of data analytics processes and improvements in efficiency. As a result, risk management and data analytics will help provide stronger and more accurate forecasts for your project.

21 Popular Project Management Methodologies

As a new project manager, you can be overwhelmed by all the approaches, differing methodologies and software tools used to manage projects. First off, a new project manager needs to get their head around the project lifecycle and the various project processes that can be used in project management. The most comprehensive way to do this is to complete an accredited program of learning such as a Diploma of Project Management. This comprehensive program will provide you with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage a project and, together with the wisdom of experience, this program will give you the critical thinking skills you to select the most appropriate methodology or Model to get the best out of your project. Selecting the right methodology for your project is a skill that only a well trained and experienced project manager can make. Here are 21 PM methodologies (listed in alphabetical order) that make the grade: 1. Adaptive Project Framework In this methodology, the project scope is variable. Additionally, the time and the cost are constants for the project. Therefore, during the project execution, the project scope is adjusted in order to get the maximum business value from the project. 2. Agile Software Development Agile software development methodology is for a project that needs extreme agility in requirements. The key features of agile are its short-termed delivery cycles (sprints), agile requirements, dynamic team culture, less restrictive project control and emphasis on real-time communication. 3. Critical Path Method (CPM) (CPM) explores the most important or critical tasks of a project by defining possible activity sequences and estimating the longest duration of each sequence. It helps figure out how long it will take to complete the work and what tasks will compose the scope. 4. Critical Chain Project Management (CCPM) Critical Chain Project Management (CCPM) is the way to plan, implement and review various kinds of work in single- and multi-project environments. This management methodology uses Theory of Constraints (TOC) and the concept of buffers to establish improved task durations and manage resource-dependent tasks and activities. 5. Crystal Methods In crystal method, the project processes are given a low priority. Instead of the processes, this method focuses more on team communication, team member skills, people and interaction. Crystal methods come under the agile category. 6. Dynamic Systems Development Model (DSDM) This is the successor of Rapid Application Development (RAD) methodology (see no.15 below). This is also a subset of agile software development methodology and boasts about the training and documents support this methodology has. This method emphasises more on the active user involvement during the project life cycle. 7. Event Chain Methodology Unlike other project management methodologies that focus on tasks, the Event Chain Methodology focuses on events and schedules. It’s a project scheduling technique that maps out uncertainty and risk in a project, and statistically estimates the impact that events will have—even external ones. Projects are able to mitigate negative effects of critical events or event chains once they’ve been identified. 8. Extreme Programming (XP) Lowering the cost of requirement changes is the main objective of extreme programming. XP emphasizes on fine scale feedback, continuous process, shared understanding and programmer welfare. In XP, there is no detailed requirements specification or software architecture built. Your Career in Project Management Do you want to learn more about project management skills employers demand, emerging job roles and salaries, and recent industry insights?  Discover your career in project management.  PROJECT MANAGEMENT CAREERS PAGE 9. Feature Driven Development (FDD) This methodology is more focused on simple and well-defined processes, short iterative and feature-driven delivery cycles. All the planning and execution in this project type take place based on the features. 10. Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) This methodology is a collection of best practices in project management. ITIL covers a broad aspect of project management which starts from the organisational management level. 11. Joint Application Development (JAD) Involving the client from the early stages with the project tasks is emphasised by this methodology. The project team and the client hold JAD sessions collaboratively in order to get the contribution from the client. These JAD sessions take place during the entire project life cycle. 12. Lean Development (LD) Lean development focuses on developing change-tolerance software. In this method, satisfying the customer comes as the highest priority. The team is motivated to provide the highest value for the money paid by the customer. 13. PRINCE2 PRINCE2 is an acronym for Projects In Controlled Environments version 2 and, this UK government methodology takes a process-based approach to project management. This methodology is based on eight high-level processes. 14. PRiSM Projects integrating Sustainable Methods (PRiSM) was developed by GPM Global as a means of creating a methodology that took environmental factors into account while being a repeatable, efficient process that could easily be incorporated into various large-scale projects. PRiSM is used primarily for large-scale real estate development or construction/infrastructure projects that may result in adverse environmental effects. 15. Rapid Application Development (RAD)M This methodology focuses on developing products faster with higher quality. When it comes to gathering requirements, it uses the workshop method. Prototyping is used for getting clear requirements and re-use the software components to accelerate the development timelines. In this method, all types of internal communications are considered informal. 16. Rational Unified Process (RUP) RUP tries to capture all the positive aspects of modern software development methodologies and offer them in one package. This is one of the first project management methodologies that suggested an iterative approach to software development. Download our FREE 'Your Career in Project Management' Guide Find the latest information in our eBook about a career in project management, including current job opportunities, skills you need, salary information and more. DOWNLOAD MY FREE GUIDE 17. Scrum This is an agile methodology. The main goal of this methodology is to improve team productivity dramatically by removing every possible burden. Scrum projects are managed by a Scrum master. 18. Six Sigma The method of Six Sigma was originally developed by Motorola to improve its production processes by eliminating defects (defined as “non-conformity of a product or service to its specifications”). Today Six Sigma is one of the most popular and worldwide trusted examples of project management methodology for ensuring the accuracy and speed of a process’s implementation through eliminating or minimizing waste. 19. Spiral Spiral methodology is the extended waterfall model with prototyping. It arranges activities in a spiral pattern, each ‘loop’ is divided into 4 phases: Analysis, risk evaluation, execution and planning. This method is used instead of using the waterfall model for large projects. 20. Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC) This is a conceptual model used in software development projects. In this method, there is a possibility of combining two or more project management methodologies for the best outcome. SDLC also heavily emphasises on the use of documentation and has strict guidelines on it. 21. Waterfall (Traditional) This is the legacy model for software development projects. This methodology had been in practice for decades before the new methodologies were introduced. In this model, the development lifecycle has fixed phases and linear timelines. This model is not capable of addressing the challenges in the modern software development domain. As well as the Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820) CAL offers entry and advanced level training in many of the methodologies listed. AIPM-Endorsed Diploma CAL has received endorsement for our Diploma of Project Management (BSB50820) and Diploma of Project Management (specialising in Construction) (BSB50820) courses from the Australian Institute of Project Management (AIPM), the premier, longest-serving body for project management in Australia. Having passed a rigorous review by AIPM auditors, adding an AIPM-endorsed diploma to your repertoire demonstrates your commitment to project management professional development and the elevation of industry practices.

What Opportunities are in Project Management?

There appears to be a lot of doom and gloom in the job market these days, but to me, there are just as many fantastic opportunities for those willing to take the plunge and change careers or for those savvy enough to see the writing on the wall and update their skills and knowledge. Let’s take the case of project management and look closely at the career track. With regard to career growth, project management has certainly been front and centre for the last few years, and I get the feeling that it has lost some of its appeal. Sure the mining and manufacturing sectors are getting bad press with significant job losses, but this has no affect on the intelligent project manager (PM). Despite what we hear in the press, so many job opportunities make project management a hot career to be in! The demand seems to be shifting from those PM’s who can follow a system, to an urgent and growing need for PM’s who can understand the strategic vision of the organisation and align these with the project goals. They need to be able to understand how a project fits into the big picture. Tim Wasserman, program director of the Stanford University Advanced Project Management program in Stanford, California, USA, says, “The ability to convert strategy into action is the emerging skill of our time. The ability to persuade and influence others, understand stakeholder values and negotiate for scarce resources is critical.” The demand for ‘skilled’ project managers is also getting more specific for each sector. Project managers need a solid foundation on which to build more advanced skill sets. Whichever way you look at it, this points towards the Diploma of Project Management. This qualification has been the benchmark qualification across all industry sectors for some time now and nothing has changed. Once you have the basics in place then you need to focus on project leadership and building value through leadership and/or specialising in one or two aspects of project management. You could potentially advance your skills in procurement and/or contract management or project HR management. You could even further develop your project management skills to manage programs, portfolios or even the Project Management Office (PMO). The exciting thing about project management is that there are just so many areas you can specialise in, and then the world is truly your oyster! According to the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) here in Australia, employment is set to grow by 820,100 jobs, or 7.1%, through November 2017 across most industries and occupations in Australia. It’s a broad field, but DEEWR predicts the range of project management jobs to increase overall to a massive 16.4% to 2017 and, according to a survey conducted by the Project Management Institute (PMI), the number one country for project practitioner salaries is Australia, with an average salary of $134,659. There is no doubt the fact that project management is a growth industry both in Australia and globally. In fact our close neighbours throughout Asia are just starting to recognise the need for qualified project managers. This demand will grow as their industry becomes more competitive. Regulations will begin to push for more integrated governance, compliance and strong management approaches in all sectors from construction to health. In fact the discipline of project management can be the important ‘force multiplier’ that improves performance across all sectors. Speaking of health, there is a global prerogative to do more with less so as to improve care, reduce costs, boost efficiencies and improve the customer experience. This is just the right sort of environment for skilled project managers in the health sector, both here in Australia and globally. Similarly the construction sector will continue to grow but, overtime will shift from developed economies to emerging markets. A 2013 report on this topic says that, by 2025, growth in the construction industry is expected to increase by more than 70% to US$15 trillion, and it will be concentrated in three countries: China, India, and the United States. In fact, the PMI list of ‘project hotspots’ around the world that will offer a wealth of opportunities and, these include (as well as the US and Australia) places like Canada, who will need in excess of half a million new PM roles by 2020. The report estimates India alone will require nearly 9 million new PM roles, while China’s rail projects alone are estimated to require nearly 25 million project management roles by 2020! These figures indicate the huge demand still to come for project managers. With estimates like these to look forward to, anyone who says PMs are dead and dusted really must have rocks in their heads! Organisations here in Australia and throughout the world will be searching for professional PMs who have a strong set of technical, business and leadership skills, as well as the basic and underpinning skills of PM. This means that if you’re planning a career in project management you must be prepared to commit to ongoing professional development. First off you need the basic skills of project management that you get in an accredited Certificate or Diploma qualification and then you need to understand and utilise specific methodologies such as PRINCE2, Agile etc. By then of course, you need to practice, apply and polish your skills, focusing on either project leadership so that you can lead people, projects and portfolios or, on the more complex technical skills so that you can add depth and expertise to a specific sector or project application. Either way you must focus your development so that you are positioned to add true value to your organisation’s bottom line. I know I keep saying this in the blogs I write but, there is no doubt that lifelong learning is no longer just a catchphrase. It is the new reality. The world of work is changing so quickly that new skills and knowledge are always needed. The person who recognises this and keeps their skills and knowledge not just up to date but also one step ahead is the person who is always in demand for high paid, challenging and satisfying work assignments. These are the people then who are in challenging and exciting PM employment, and who will continue to do so as they move from one assignment to the next. Why not let it be you?
project meeting

What’s in PM Qualifications and Certifications and How will they Help Me?

Photo: CC BY 2008 Robert Scoble Many people are confused when they see all the products on the market for project management training – some are qualifications such as a Diploma are well regarded wherever you are, some are globally recognised certifications , again recognised and valued throughout the world of project management, while others are short courses, designed to further the participant’s knowledge and skills in a specific area. I have lots of people interested in commencing a course on Project Management ask me which one is best? Now, that’s a loaded question and it is impossible to answer unless you know a little more about an individual’s skills and experience and the reason why they want to learn more about project management. For example, if you have no experience in project management and have never worked in a project environment well, the certification programs are not going to be much, if any use to you. Instead, you really need to go for a qualification like the Certificate IV in Project Management Practice to learn the basics of project management such as the project framework, the life-cycle and methodology of managing a project through its lifecycle. Once you have this basic skillset under your belt, well, you’re much more likely to pick up a job as a member of a project team. Certifications such as PRINCE2, PMI, ITIL, Agile and so on are all valuable to have but they won’t help you get a job if you haven’t worked in project management before. Photo CC-BY-2.0 2009 danisabella It makes little or no sense to gain a certification in a specific and quite complex methodology of PM if you’ve never worked in a project environment and, potential employers will be looking to see that experience before they place any value on the Certification you hold. In fact, you cannot even obtain PMI/PMP Certification without holding between 3 – 5 years of project experience that is the equivalent of between 4,500 – 7,500 hours on the job! However, if you have some previous experience on the job as a project manager or a member of a project team and, you want to move to a company that operates in a PRINCE2, Agile or ITIL environment (and there are many such organisations throughout Australia) then, yes you should obtain the Certification without delay as this will most definitely assist you in your job hunting. You can often find out what system an organisation is using either from the job description, or, if you’re only looking around well it will often be mentioned on the company website or you can checkout the company CIO details on LinkedIn. PRINCE2 also keep a register of organisations using their system so you can often find a summary of these organisations in a specific country or region. Now, if you are an experienced project manager and thinking of trying your hand offshore with a multi-national company or a company in Singapore, Dubai, China or India (for example) then, it is well worth considering the PMI/PMP Certification as this is a globally recognised standard that provides potential employers with tangible evidence of your skills. After all, to hold this certification you must have demonstrated a significant number of hours of experience as a project manager! Photo CC-BY-2.0 2009 SFU Public Affairs and Media Relations A Diploma of Project Management is also very effective in the global environment – not so much for the technical skills you so obviously have, of course that’s important, but more so for the ability to obtain a Diploma level of study. This often sets you aside from those who don’t have a higher qualification. After all a Diploma level qualification implies a level of ability to communicate, make decisions, solve problems, manage one’s own personal productivity, handle technology as well as manage people – all critical yet underpinning skills necessary in the successful project manager. A value-add with the Diploma of Project Management qualification offered by CAL is that, if you complete all the course content well, we guarantee that you’ll have the knowledge to sit the PMI/PMP exam without any further study! Of course if you’re an experienced project manager without either a qualification or any certification, well, the very best option for you (at least as a starting point) is to have the skills and knowledge you’ve gathered over the years you’ve spent in project management recognised, and you can do this quite easily and with a minimum of fuss, by applying for a recognition of prior learning or RPL for the Diploma of Project Management. I recently completed an RPL application for an experienced PM who was working in WA and who wanted to go back off shore to work. He felt he needed a formal qualification on his CV to secure the job he really wanted. So, he applied for RPL and, within the month he was done and dusted. But then, that’s just what you’d expect from an experienced project manager. After all managing self & time to gather together the paperwork he needed to demonstrate what he does and then explaining to me just how he does it is exactly the skills that underpin PM success. So he has his Diploma with literally a couple of days of effort! Photo CC-BY-SA 2014 Garrett Coakley Then, for those experienced project managers who already hold a qualification and any certification required to run specific methodologies on site and be recognised globally, well the next step up is, first off, to program management. So once you’ve mastered your own project you can move on to managing a number of programs and here the MSP (Managing Successful Programmes) is a useful Certification. Once you’ve mastered programmes or perhaps instead of well then the next step is on to Portfolio Management with the MoP® (Management of Portfolios- this is a great next step. Both these Certifications are valuable in the PMO as well and are perfect for entry into the PMO Manager role or, the next step up as a project sponsor. If you want to further your career in the PMO well you can’t go far wrong with the P30 training – that is the Portfolio, Programme and Project Office. Of course if you want to specialise in an area you might like to consider Earned Value Management or Management of Value (MoV®). You might even want to move across into talent management or organisational change. The PMI’s Pulse of the Profession report completed in Feb. 2014 has shown that organisations need to focus on the development and training of their talent in order to achieve superior project performance, successful strategic initiatives and become high performers. This is a real problem in knowledge transfer where two thirds of organisations report using outsourced or contract project managers and, furthermore, 26% of organisations plan to increase this in 2014. Yet the research tells us that there is a direct correlation between effective talent management and better project performance. Similarly, change continues to be a challenge for the vast majority of organisations with two out of five organisations or 40% reporting in this same pulse report that their effectiveness at organisational change management is higher compared to a year ago. What is surprising, given these figures is the only one in five orgs report highly effective change management. Photo CC-BY-2.0 2006 Alberto G. So, the time is right for those of you interested in (for example) talent or change management to specialist and become project managers specialising in talent management or change management. CAL offers two excellent units of study on both of these exciting and challenging areas and, you can also achieve credits either within a Diploma of Project Management or perhaps branch out and complete a Diploma of Management as well. There are so many options available to those of you who are information savvy and pro-active career planners! But I’ve left the most important to last and that’s the short courses in Project Leadership Mastery and CAL runs a number of these that focus on Leadership and People Management. It makes good sense to develop those interpersonal people management skills and also to ensure you are across the ever changing mine-field that is employment legislation and all that entails. CAL provides a complete range of HRM programs from developing the employment contract to running the performance review meeting, managing conflict, settling disputes and terminating unsatisfactory employees. Now this is a very brief explanation of some of the very many options available for you to choose from in project management but, the ones I’ve selected here today are certainly some of the most well-known. If you would like to know more about all or any of these options you can access the FAQ’s on CAL’s PM Solutions pages or you can give us a call. We’d love to talk to you more about all these fabulous programs and how they can help you progress your career in project management!

The Importance of Communication & Leadership Skills in Project Management

It seems the skill most experienced project managers needs is Leadership according to a recent survey by ESI International ((ESI International Asia Pacific Project Management Salary Survey 2014)). This survey looked at project management across different industries, asking ‘What are the top two core competencies that you think you will need to fast-track your career?’ Across the board, Project leadership topped the list with 23%, although almost one in three of those in the oil and gas industry indicated this as a critical factor. The second most popular choice was Communication and general management skills at 18% with ‘Stakeholder management’ a close third at 15%. This of course is not surprising as project managers spend around 80% or more of their job communicating with others. It makes good business sense therefore to ensure that all project managers are skilled communicators as well as effective leaders. Doesn’t it? Photo: CC-BY-SA 2010 PopTech Well, the fact of the matter is that, when it comes to developing skills in project management as well as gaining qualifications and certifications, there is little or no attention given to these critical skills sets! Project managers learn about the project life-cycle and various methodologies and tools to aid in the technical delivery of the project; on time, within scope and on budget, but they don’t learn much about the less technical and much softer skills related to people management. Sure the Certificate IV and the Diploma qualification cover the basics (if you’re lucky) but PRINCE2 has little time for interpersonal skills and the same applies for other global certifications. Project Managers themselves have little time for people management and the interpersonal skills of communication and leadership and yet these are the skills that underpin productivity. You can’t have a highly productive and efficient project team unless they are motivated and engaged to perform to these levels and you can’t engage and motivate a team of disparate stakeholders unless you are a skilled communicator and an effective leader. Photo CC-BY-ND 2013 Aurimas Adomavicius With project managers expected to do more with less and cuts being made to project budgets it seems the only way to ensure success is to increase overall productivity and, in my opinion, this can ultimately only be achieved through inspirational leadership that engages all project stakeholders and motivates them to improve that discretionary effort and take that extra step! CAL offers a range of leadership and communication short courses for project managers that will provide them with the skills and the tools they need to communicate more effectively with their project teams and all stakeholders as well as tips, techniques and tools to assist project managers to further develop their leadership and people management skills so that they can inspire, motivate and engage their teams to perform to their very best!   This post is part of the Project Management Solutions Series. Read part 1 here.

Meet your Learning Coaches

Kerri Waddell
Head Coach: HR, Business, Administration and Management

Kerri is a Learning and Development (L&D) professional with 21 years of experience in the field. She has a holistic understanding of the L&D function. She has a broad range of skills, knowledge and capabilities related to organisational training and assessment delivery, training needs analysis, training program development, training procedures development, L&D planning and reporting, staff development, leadership/management, performance management, HR functions and project management.

Kerri’s personal educational philosophy is to make a positive difference to the professional and personal lives of people through learning. She likes to assist people to be the best they can be by helping them to believe in their own abilities. She is truly passionate about helping people to learn, grow and achieve!

Meet the whole team

Real Students. Real Outcomes

Myles

Diploma of Project Management
After leaving the Navy, Myles now works to build the ships he once served on, utilising his Project Management skills for the next generation of Australian Sailors.
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Joshua

Double Diploma of Human Resource Management + Leadership and Management
Saying “no” isn’t an option for Joshua. While juggling family life with work, Joshua has also taken on a Double Diploma to further his management career.

Donna

Double Diploma of Human Resource Management + Leadership & Management
Beginning in retail management, Donna found her passion for People & Culture. Getting qualified with her Double Diploma is equipping her with skills for current and future roles.

Noel

Double Diploma of Building & Construction (Management) + Project Management
Noel offers some really great advice about how to be proactive in your job search. Noel has also been working on an aid project in the Solomon Islands with the aim of improving water supply infrastructure.
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Amanda

Certificate IV in Project Management
Amanda is CAL’s 10,000th student – striving to achieve outcomes and ensure that her team feels valued. She currently works as a CRM Operations Manager.

Cara

DOUBLE DIPLOMA OF BUSINESS + LEADERSHIP & MANAGEMENT
Starting out in community services, Cara quickly rose to recognition in the industry for her passion and drive. This prompted her to start her own business - which has led to some incredible opportunities.

Jessica

Double Diploma of Human Resource Management + Leadership & Management
Jessica jumps at opportunities that present themselves, and after working overseas in HR for a tech start-up, is now formalising her skill set to make herself more employable.
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Nirajan

Double Diploma of Project Management + Leadership and Management
Nirajan has worked hard to put his three areas of expertise and experience together – health, design and construction. Nirajan has a previous qualification already under his belt, as well as some excellent project planning and coordinating experience.

Vanessa

Double Diploma of Project Management + Building & Construction (Management)
Vanessa continually challenges herself in her career. She is currently making the leap from being an interior designer in her own business, to breaking into the construction industry and following her love for projects and planning.

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It covered all topics. Talent management, operations, leadership and metrics. Great overview issues in work place discussion. Great output.

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Very practical and useful information that is directly related to the workplace.

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