Information technology (IT) project managers lead their technical team(s) in design and development tasks. They assist test teams in their efforts to create test plans, and they make sure that the software quality is up to par. Additionally, they coordinate the delivery of development and production releases, making sure that quality assurance standards are met. IT project managers create and maintain project plans to ensure timely completion of tasks, major project milestones, and resource allocation. They also utilize software life cycle methodology.
IT project managers need to have strong leadership and communication skills, both written and verbal, to ensure that the department stays fully linked internally and with the rest of the company or client. Effective leaders know how to efficiently direct team workflow while making sure that each team member knows exactly what he or she is assigned to do. They are strong collaborators and are willing to listen to suggestions from all areas of the team, from the client to the programmers. Flexibility is another important trait for IT project managers, as they need to be able to gracefully handle any kinks that arise during the development process. Ideally, IT project managers have an energetic personality that boosts team morale, as well as strong conflict resolution skills to resolve any team issues that arise during project development.
These positions generally require a bachelor's degree in a field related to management or other related fields. Prior leadership experience is a must, as is prior experience working in IT support and/or development. Some positions specify that the candidate must be a Certified Project Management Professional or is at least working toward certification.
Project Manager, Information Technology (IT) Tasks
- Coordinate delivery of development (beta) and production releases that meet quality assurance standards.
- Assist test team in creating test plans and testing efforts.
- Create and maintain a information technology project plan that communicates tasks, milestone dates, status and resource allocation.
- Assist technical team in design and development tasks.
- Utilize software life-cycle methodology.