The original version of this paper was presented at the Project Management Institute's 28th Annual Seminar & Symposium, Chicago, Illinois, September 29, 1997. It was subsequently updated and reproduced on this web site in November 2000.

Republished here April 2023.

Introduction | We are Not Alone | What Basis? | Models | Concept Mapping
PMKS Theme | Objectives | Assumptions | Exclusion | Starting Point | Conclusions
Appendix A | Appendix B

Assumptions

We are assuming that the PMKS will be used to

  • Assemble knowledge and experience that is encompassed by project management and clarify what is excluded
  • Provide a basis for comparing features and practices in different environments, cultures and areas of application
  • Run electronic and non-electronic information searches based on the contained PMKDs
  • Establish a reference baseline and checklists for the benefit of academics and practitioners alike in their education, training and application endeavors

Included in our assumptions should be the founding definitions of the PMKS model. Given our goal, these would be the definitions we adopt for the terms "project management", "project", "management" and "success". The more convincing and focused we can make these definitions, the more likely we are to succeed in achieving collective buy-in of the structure. Given the stated objectives, we propose the following. Note, however, it is not so much the exact wording but the content that is important.

  • Project Management: The art and science of managing a project from inception to closure as evidenced by successful product delivery and transfer.
  • Project: A unique process or undertaking designed to create a new product or service.
  • Management: The act of planning, organizing, coordinating, commanding, and controlling.[14]
  • Success (project success): The perception of satisfaction on the part of the customers, i.e. those who will use the product, firstly with the resulting product or service, and secondly with the process that achieved it.
Theme  Objectives for Structuring a PMKS

14. Fayol, H., General and Industrial Management, IEEE Press, NY, Rev. ed. 1984.

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