power in their project management software was not really that
great. However, the decision-makers felt that they wanted maxi-
mum horsepower in their software, “just in case.” Unfortunately,
proper use of the software required sending people off to a
month-long, intensive training program and to periodic refresher
courses thereafter. The company had difficulty breaking people
free to take the training. After two years of hacking their way
through the use of the tool, they abandoned it and bought
something simpler.
Compatibility with Other Systems. Consider how your project
management software will have to interface with other commu-
nication, accounting, or reporting systems already in use in
your company.
Documentation, Startup Support, and Ongoing Technical
Support. How much support can you expect from the manufac-
turer and/or the company selling the software? Consider impor-
tant issues, such as the documentation you’ll receive, the setup
and startup support you can expect, and the long-term techni-
cal support you’ll get.
Consider using several sources of input, including the expe-
riences of others and rating guides, before making your final
selection of project management software.
Words to the Wise About Project Management Software
The tremendous power of project management software can lull
you into a false sense of security. Although the tool can save
you a significant amount of time, there are many things that it
cannot do. You’ll have to rely upon your knowledge of project
management rather than the tool. Here are some things that the
tool cannot do:
- Make decisions.You’ll still have to determine the course
of the project through the day-to-day decisions you
make. - Gather data.You must still determine how much data
138 Project Management