Dev: Boss, this is the project management plan for our new project. I have outlined how the project will be executed, monitored and controlled, and closed.

Boss: The overall plan looks a little confusing. What's with the little red call-outs in between?

Dev: Oh, that's me raising the red flag. Once the plan is baselined and has to get updated due to the ever-changing project environment, a reminder that the plan can be changed only through perform Integrated Change Control process.

Develop Project Management Plan
In the plan, it is necessary to define at least the project references for scope, time, and cost, so that the project execution can be measured and compared and performance can be managed. Before the baselines are defined, the plan can be updated as many times as necessary. But once baselined, it may only be changed through the perform Integrated Change Control process.

Boss: Dev I am just coming back from the client meeting. They have proposed a few changes in the scope which have accepted.

Dev: Huh, what!

Dev: But, Boss, the scope baseline has already been finalized, any changes we make now will affect the timelines and not to mention the budget.

Boss: I am glad you were not part of this meeting.

Dev: Why do you say that?

Boss: That's because you would have downright said no to the changes. please understand that the client is important for us and he can't take no for an answer.

Dev (thinking): What about the project itself? I am going to have a lot to answer for?

Perform Integrated Change Control
Whenever a change is requested, it is advisable to identify the impact of the proposed change on the overall project. It should be done through perform Integrated Change Control which is reviewing all change requests, approving changes, and managing changes to deliverables, project documents/plan, and communication their disposition.

Lunch time

Swami: Just wondering where Dev is nowadays? Not seen him at lunch since the last couple of days
Dev: He is busy writing Test Cases, System and User documentation.

Swami: Let me take a guess. His project been picked up for an audit. Right?
Dev: Bull's Eye!

Importance of Periodic Audits
Periodic audits of the project management process ensure that systemic flaws are identified and fixed and the process is improved. Every aspect of the project management life cycle can introduce problems if not done properly, therefore it must be reviewed thoroughly. Project audits can help identify when a project is about to go off the course.

Maya: I am so excited. We have successfully completed our project within time and budget. Also, as per given scope.

Dev: Congrats, that's a great achievement. That would mean the project benefits also aligned with the organization's strategic goals?

Maya: Umm...well...err...Never thought about it. We have moved on to a new project already.

Benefits Realization Management(BRM)
All strategic change in an organization happens through project & program management. And organizations leave that strategy to chance if they do not focus on benefits realization. It is important to create dedicated space for dialogue among C-suite executives, business owners, & project managers right from the start of each project to secure alignment with organization's overarching strategy, assess projects, & course-correct as needed.

Boss: Dev, meet Tina, our new developer. Though she is a newbie, she is a quick learner and has the relevant skills for your project.

Dev: Great! Welcome aboard Tina. Good to have you with us. Have you been briefed on our project?

Tina: No Worries. I will go through the project documentation and that will bring me up to speed.

Swami: Project documentation ...haha! This newbie has unrealistic expectations from the real world of managing projects

Importance of Project Documentation
Project documentation is a critical part of project management. It is required to make sure project requirements are fulfilled and to establish traceability with regards to what has been done, who has  done it, and when it has been done. It is also extremely important that is up to date, well arranged, easy to read, and adequate.

Boss: Dev, I want you to take over "Project Titanic" asap! Ram has quit without any notice.

Dev: But Boss, the project take over is draining our resources and moreover it may not realize the intended benefits as planned.

Boss: Don't worry. We need to have the project completed anyway.

Dev: But Boss, if it's not showing any great prospects why invest in it? Let's just scrap it! It's anyway a 'Sinking Ship'.

Boss: This is pretty much a prestigious project for the company. So without much delay I would suggest you start focusing on how to complete it.

Boss: Just take charge of this ship and help it sail smoothly. I will clear the coast for you.

Dev (thinking): I am already having a weird sinking feeling about this project. Good Lord, help me stay afloat!

Benefit Realization Management (BRM)
Project Managers have a role in ensuring that an organization's expected benefits are delivered once a project is complete, Organizations are leaving their strategy to chance when they do not focus on BRM as a central part of project and program management.