Application of Project Management in Higher Education

Headnote

Abstract

Project Management is prevalent in many industries but is seemingly overlooked in higher education. At times project management is considered more of an art than an actual science therefore not enough time or money is spent on implementing formal structures in organizations, as a result projects often fail and lack direction in any industry. Formal project management concepts are more prevalent in well-established industries such as construction and healthcare but seem to be lacking in higher education. We will examine why project management is not as prevalent in higher education, how higher education institutions can benefit from having formal project management methodology or a central PMO and what leadership traits would be needed for management to successfully implement a sustainable and effective PMO at a higher education institution. A case study consisting of a series of interviews with top leaders at Drexel University on the state of project management will illustrate the challenges that face higher education institutions who strive to implement project management methodology under budget and resource constraints. In addition, required leadership styles and further research in the area will be examined to further prove the importance of implementing project management in higher education institutions that will contribute to effective, efficient and timely delivery of product and services to their customers - the faculty, staff and students.

Keywords: Project management, higher education, Project Management Office (PM)

Introduction

We chose to examine how formal project management methodology is lacking in higher education compared to other industries, specifically healthcare and construction, and identify producible benefits should a formal project management approach be taken in higher education and specifically at Drexel University. Further examination into the theory that in order for a Project Management Office (PMO) to thrive in the Higher Education industry, certain leadership styles should be employed to make a PMO in Higher Education sustainable and successful. A case studying involving a series of interviews with top leaders at Drexel University were conducted to discuss the current and future state of project management at Drexel University and the benefits that may result if formal project management methodology was applied in higher education institutions such as Drexel University and how it compares to local and national institutions. As stakeholders in higher education...