PMItoday - March 2009

Making project management indispensable for business results.^®

PMI

today

Published by Project Management Institute A Supplement to PM Network

MARCH 2009

The State of the Project Economy

CEO REPORTS Positive News on Projects and Project Managers

PMI President and CEO Gregory Balestrero sat with PMI Today^®for a wide-ranging discussion on project management and projects in the challenging economy of 2009. Mr. Balestrero believes project management is an excellent career to be in right now. While financing is tight and there have been some project delays, he noted that the project economy continues strong and the shortage of skilled project management practitioners is still acute.

Mr. Balestrero advised members to sharpen their skills and prepare to show leadership now. Executives will recognize who is leading the way during challenging times. Those

seeking jobs who have the Project Management Professional (PMP)^SMcredential might consider explaining on their cover letters what kind of experience they had to have and what they needed to show in order to earn their credential, while also explaining why it is important to pick someone with the PMP^®credential over others.

Two special characteristics of project managers—accountability and transparency—will help organizations control assets in their projects and deliver success in an economical way during challenging times, Mr. Balestrero said.

Strong involvement with PMI will help you in your career, Mr. Balestrero added. He also reminded readers that any member in good standing for three years or more who can demonstrate that they have lost their jobs can renew their membership and have their dues waived.