The Project Management Pocketbook by Mike Applegarth, Keith Posner A practical, step-by-step guide to managing a project through to completion. It looks at the key stages and identifies management techniques that can be applied. From objective setting to implementation, it emphasizes the importance of teamwork and communication. Practical PRINCE 2 by Colin Bentley The PRINCE 2 project management method provides a framework within which any product can be specified, designed and implementation. This is a practical guide to the PRINCE 2 method. It offers step-by-step advice on how to manage the whole of the project life cycle from inception, through planning and control, to the final completion of the project. Consideration is also given to the ways in which the quality requirements of the project are defined, monitored and controlled. A range of sample forms and extra checklists are included as a valuable aid to those who wish to introduce the PRINCE 2 method into their organization. The Complete Idiot's Guide to Project Management by Sunny Baker, Kim Baker Do you recognise the business value of "execution", the critical ability to deliver what you promise, under budget and on time-- but aren't quite sure how to get there consistently? The Complete Idiot's Guide to Project Management, by marketing and business-development specialists Sunny and Kim Baker, outlines proven ways to apply this key skill to various situations. In typical Idiot's Guide fashion, it explains all of the steps necessary to plan a project, assemble and lead teams, monitor progress and bring resultant efforts to a successful conclusion. Tips on resolving conflict, handling change, using software and keeping in touch with those involved are among the highlights. In a chapter called "Making Your Communications Count", for example, the Bakers examine numerous methods for distributing information that will "get your message across". They first look at the pros and cons of nine forms of interchange, from telephone and e-mail to memo and presentation; they then offer guidelines for creating effective messages and selecting appropriate delivery vehicles. Similar treatment also is given to other relevant topics, such as assembling adequate resources, launching projects in ways that motivate participants and moving team members to other roles once their current job is finished. This book is no substitute for project management training but it will help those who have fallen into the Project Manager role on smaller projects. Diary of a Change Agent by Tony Page Ever wondered what other Change Managers go through on a daily basis? Read this compelling personal account for an in-depth and frank look at a high pressure career. Tony Page is a 40-something management consultant, wrestling with the conflicting demands of a growing business and a growing family. For three years he kept a diary, to which he confided his hopes and fears, his triumphs and setbacks. With painful honesty he analyzed his working and business relationships as he strove to add value to his clients' business and improve his own abilities. The diary captures a unique personal journey and should be of interest to those serious about business performance improvement, change and learning.