Project Management is the structured process of planning, executing, monitoring, and closing tasks to achieve specific objectives within defined constraints, such as time, budget, and scope. 

It ensures that resources are effectively utilized, and risks are proactively managed to deliver value to stakeholders. 

First, it involves identifying project goals based on stakeholder needs and developing a detailed plan that outlines deliverables, timelines, resources, and budget expectations. This is formalized in documents like the project charter and the project management plan.

Second, during execution, project management focuses on coordinating teams, monitoring progress, and maintaining communication with stakeholders, all while fostering collaboration and resolving challenges. Good communication and adaptability are critical, particularly when navigating changes or unforeseen risks.

Third, project monitoring and control ensure alignment with the original goals by tracking performance metrics, managing risks, and making adjustments as necessary to ensure the project remains on track.

Finally, project closure involves completing deliverables, obtaining formal stakeholder acceptance, conducting performance reviews, and documenting lessons learned for future improvement.

Throughout the process, project managers use well-defined methodologies to guide success, such as Agile for flexible workflows and iterative development or Waterfall for linear, staged progress. Tools like Gantt charts, risk matrices, RACI charts, and status reports help ensure transparency and efficiency.

Ultimately, project management is about delivering results that meet or exceed expectations while balancing competing demands such as time, cost, and scope.

Change Management is a structured approach to transitioning individuals, teams, and organizations from a current state to a desired future state. It involves preparing, supporting, and helping employees navigate the change process, ensuring that changes are implemented smoothly and effectively. 

Why Change Management Matters

In today's fast-paced environment, change is constant—whether you're launching new programs, implementing technology, or reorganizing departments. Without effective change management, even the best initiatives face resistance, leading to low adoption and failure. 

When you prioritize change management, you:

• Reduce resistance and boost stakeholder engagement
• Help people adapt to new ways of working
• Foster collaboration across teams
• Drive innovation
• Align efforts with organizational goals

This approach increases project success while building long-term resilience in our evolving landscape.

Our Methodology: Prosci®

We've adopted Prosci® as our change management framework—the gold standard backed by 25+ years of research and used by over 1,000 organizations worldwide. With the higher education sector experiencing major transformative forces, universities and colleges are increasingly adopting this methodology as well. 

 The ADKAR Model

Prosci's ADKAR model guides individuals through five essential stages of change:

• Awareness of the need for change
• Desire to participate and support
• Knowledge of how to change
• Ability to implement new skills and behaviors
• Reinforcement to sustain the change

This structured approach helps you transition smoothly from current state to desired future state, ensuring your changes stick.

Who Benefits?

Everyone involved in organizational change—from project teams and leaders to faculty, staff, and students. We're here to support you through every step of your transformation journey.

The University Project Management Office is currently establishing a Change Management Community of Practice to share ideas and collaborate with other Change Management Practitioners.  Check back soon for details.