PMBoK-Driven Approach to Software Project Management

• Abstract: This talk outlines how a formal project management approach can integrate with a software development methodology. The project management approach is the Project Management Institute model as captured in the Project Management Body of Knowledge, or PMBoK. The target area for application is Telecommunications software development, specifically for Operations Support Systems developed on an integrated platform using a waterfall development model.
  
  The talk provides background on the PMBoK approach, providing an overview of the overall model. In addition, the Sales Process, which is often overlooked in such discussions, is covered and related to the process approach that follows.
  
  With this background established, the five major process groups within the PMBoK Model are discussed. Key deliverables that arise from each process are identified and examples provided. Particular attention is given to the Planning process with key steps illustrated with Microsoft Project outputs for a sample project. The relationship between the Execution and Control processes and Development Methodology are noted, with insight provided on critical success factors. Tracking methodology is also explicitly addressed.
  
  In summary, the talk serves as a high-level tutorial on the PMBoK approach to project management while providing insight into how it can be pragmatically applied to a typical development environment.
  
  Dr. Ronald J. Wojcik,  has worked software development for over thirty years, primarily in the telecommunications industry. Ron joined AT&T Bell Laboratories in 1977 where he performed and then led real-time software development and systems engineering efforts. In 1991, Ron joined BellSouth Telecommunications as a Research Director for systems engineering. In 1996, Ron assumed the role of Executive Director/Network Vice President for systems development in support of emerging technologies being deployed into the BellSouth network. In 2002, Ron retired from BellSouth and established Pragmatic! Solutions, a telecommunications and project management/process consulting company.
  
  Ron has also worked as an Executive Director for TTI Telecom, where he has had technical account management and system development/delivery responsibilities.
  
  Ron's academic accomplishments include a B.S. in Math from Illinois Institute of Technology; a Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics from Brown University; and an MBA from the University of Chicago. Ron is also a certified Project Management Professional.