project management can be best described as a set of related activities which have a definite starting point and end state, which pursues a defined goal and used a definite set of resources with reference to this discuss the project life cycle, the qualities a project manager should possess and reasons for successful project management

As a graduate of Defense Systems Project Management School, I would be happy to critique your thinking. Remember that as the project ends, often some of the activities associated with the project are transfered to other life cycle managers, especially things like logistics, training, and upgrades. That transition is part of PM also.

Project Management is the process of planning, executing, monitoring, controlling, and closing a project. It involves coordinating various resources, managing timelines and budgets, and ensuring that the project meets its objectives. The project life cycle is a framework that represents the different phases a project goes through from its initiation to its completion.

The project life cycle typically consists of the following phases:

1. Initiation: This is the starting point of the project where the need or opportunity for the project is identified. The project manager assesses its feasibility, defines the project scope, and obtains necessary approvals.

2. Planning: In this phase, the project manager develops a detailed plan that outlines the project goals, objectives, timelines, budgets, and resource requirements. This includes creating a work breakdown structure (WBS), identifying project tasks, estimating resources, and developing a schedule.

3. Execution: Once the planning phase is complete, the project manager starts executing the project plan. This involves coordinating resources, assigning tasks to team members, and ensuring that the project progresses according to the schedule. It also includes managing risks, resolving issues, and communicating with stakeholders.

4. Monitoring and Control: Throughout the project, the project manager monitors the progress, performance, and quality against the project plan. This phase involves tracking project metrics, analyzing variances, and taking corrective actions to keep the project on track. It also includes regular reporting to stakeholders and conducting project reviews.

5. Closure: When the project reaches its objectives or is no longer feasible, the project enters the closure phase. Here, the project manager ensures that all deliverables are completed, conducts a final assessment of the project's success, and prepares a closure report. This phase may also involve transitioning project responsibilities to other managers or teams.

A successful project manager should possess certain qualities, including:

1. Leadership: Project managers need to inspire and motivate their team members, set clear goals, and guide them towards success.

2. Communication: Effective communication is crucial for a project manager to convey expectations, coordinate tasks, address conflicts, and keep stakeholders informed.

3. Organization: Project managers must be organized in planning and managing resources, schedules, budgets, and project documentation.

4. Problem-solving: Project managers need strong problem-solving skills to identify and address challenges that arise during the project.

5. Adaptability: Projects often encounter unexpected changes, so project managers must be flexible and adapt to new circumstances.

Successful project management leads to several benefits, such as:

1. Efficient resource utilization: Effective project management ensures that resources are allocated properly, minimizing waste and maximizing productivity.

2. Meeting project objectives: A well-managed project increases the likelihood of meeting goals within the defined time, budget, and quality parameters.

3. Stakeholder satisfaction: Effective project management involves regular stakeholder engagement, ensuring their expectations are met and increasing satisfaction.

4. Risk mitigation: By actively managing risks throughout the project, project managers can minimize the impact of potential issues and ensure project success.

5. Continuous improvement: Successful project management involves learning from previous projects and applying lessons learned to future projects, improving overall project performance.

In summary, project management encompasses a set of related activities that have a clear starting point and end state and aim to achieve defined goals with specific resources. The project life cycle outlines the stages a project goes through, from initiation to closure. A skilled project manager possesses qualities such as leadership, communication, organization, problem-solving, and adaptability. Successful project management results in efficient resource utilization, meeting objectives, stakeholder satisfaction, risk mitigation, and continuous improvement.