Aim of the programme:

Aimed at research-active staff in the early stages of their careers, this online four-part series introduces key tools and techniques for managing any research project.

This practical course follows best practice project management principles linked to establishing good project foundations and scoping research projects, creating a robust and evidence-based project plan, and tried-and-tested ways to plan for uncertainty and risk. These sessions combine and build on each other to introduce the process of managing projects and the tools to assist in planning and tracking progress within the landscape of research projects. Participants will begin to apply techniques directly to their own work and thereby create ‘live’ outputs. Groupwork and discussion will enable sharing of project experiences and reflection.

What will I learn?

During this online programme participants will:

• Learn the importance of formally initiating every project regardless of size.
• Be introduced to the fundamental and ubiquitous concept of the project triangle.
• Discuss the influence that stakeholders have on projects.
• Consider techniques for defining the scope of a project and identifying and managing differing expectations.
• Be shown techniques to establish goals and deliverables to guide them through the project execution to evaluation phases.
• Be introduced the work breakdown structure tool which is fundamental in the planning process.
• Consider methods that allow the introduction of uncertainty into task estimates.
• Explore sequencing and resourcing techniques, and how to create a Gantt chart.
• Learn techniques for identifying and addressing sources of potential issues and risks.
• Integrate these solutions into a usable project plan and calculate time contingency for unforeseen events.
• Reflect on application of the tools and techniques to their own current and upcoming research projects.

Is it right for me?

This programme is aimed at researchers in the early stages of their careers.

Less useful if…

This is less useful for mid/later stage researchers who have existing experience of managing research projects and staff. The programme may not be suitable for those staff who are currently engaged in PGR study and these staff are advised to enquire by contacting researcherqueries@warwick.ac.uk.

Learning Hours:

This programme takes approximately 12 learning hours. This includes any pre-course/programme work, attendance at workshops, experiential (‘on-the’job’) learning, coaching and post-course/programme work.