Nine Myths That Threaten Software Projects - Case Study Example

The paper "Nine Myths That Threaten Software Projects and Ten Ways to Manage Projects Successfully" is a wonderful example of an assignment on information technology. Nine Myths That Threaten Software Projects In this article the introduces a relatively new term, but still quite a well-known Human Resource concept of “peopleware”. Thus, he stresses the importance of human factor and human resource management in planning and managing software projects. It is difficult to say that the author presents some new information, rather he just reminds the readers about the necessity to destroy some typical myths and to keep on a real side.

It is important to remember that not everything can be automated and really should not be. Instead, for solving some unique tasks or new projects it is important to encourage open-minded approach in the team by effective communication, collaboration and brainstorming. It is definitely good advice as people play a very important role in the project’s success and failure. Software developers should not be viewed as the same as they possess unique traits and skills, which can be utilized by management for the company’s benefit.

Another reality revealed by the author is especially useful to autocratic managers who believe the pressure is a good instrument for improving team performance. Of course, it is not, and managers should keep it in mind. The whole article does not offer some unique or new ideas but serves as a brief reminder of what elements require more attention while managing software projects. Ten Ways to Manage Projects Successfully Many projects fail before they even start, and a significant share of projects fail in the process of their implementation.

As it turns out, the human factor is a critical factor on which greatly depends the success of a project. The author recommends a book on project management, “Emotional Intelligence for Project Managers: The People Skills You Need to Achieve Outstanding Results, written by Antonio Mersino, certified project management professional. It is quite interesting to read this book. Meanwhile, McCafferty presents 10 pieces of advice on how to manage the project successfully, revealing the minor gaps in project management, leading to major failures.

Thorough planning, punctuality, proper motivation, comfortable working environment, “open ears”, “open mind”, managing tense situations with a joke, the balance of work and rest were some of the major advice. While they are definitely good and worth attention, it may seem that this advice is very basic. These issues are often discussed in time management and communication books. On the other hand, despite its simplicity, managers often neglect this advice and focus on technical/budgetary issues of the project.

In my opinion, the idea of “smart venting” is especially helpful. I will definitely use it in stressful situations as it helps to let yourself go, but not allowing anybody else to know it. Top IT Organizations Meet Business Expectations The major idea presented in this article is devoted to the factors contributing to the success of certain enterprises. The author explains that high-performing technology organizations are capable to reduce costs on technology for each end-user and meet business expectations.

In order to support his views, the author provides statistical data, which is very interesting and encouraging. The study indicates that the success of the project depends heavily on the quality of IT departments/service in a company or organization. The overall contribution of IT to the success of the business is obvious as it helps to meet ROI expectations, to build effective supply chains, to automate business processes and make it more cost-effective. Moreover, high-quality IT is more efficient and simpler in use as it requires 1 technology platform per 1,000 users in contrast to 3,5 technology platforms at other organizations and fewer apps.

In general, the article offers good ideas for business and briefly outlines best practices, which can be further researched and investigated. Undoubtedly, effective IT department or service in a company is the cornerstone of a successful and effective business model as it enables to integrate all business processes, and thus, to improve information access, data quality, and performance visibility.