Continuous training and formal accreditations are incredibly important in project management.
As well as ensuring project professionals have the skills and knowledge to provide clients with the right solution, it enables project teams to keep up-to-date with the latest industry trends and practices.
Here at Greyfriars Project Management, we’ve prioritised training within our team – with our staff achieving a range of accreditations – to ensure we have the skills, knowledge and expertise to successfully deliver our clients’ projects.
In our latest article, we’ve taken a look at the accreditations our team have achieved – and why undertaking training is so important in project management.
Our accreditations
Formal accreditations and training help project managers successfully lead projects to completion – on time, on budget and on programme.
That’s why we’ve made a conscious and continuous effort to ensure our team are up-to-date on the latest skills and knowledge – and achieve the necessary credentials to help us deliver the results our clients need.
Our director, Jon Barnard, and one of our Project Managers, Tom Warnes, recently achieved the NEC4 Project Manager Accreditation. This provided them with the skills to manage a project under an NEC4 Contract, with reference to the role and importance of a project manager under the NEC4 Engineering and Construction Contract (ECC).
In addition, Kate Dinis (Project Manager), Emily Harvey (Junior Project Manager), Carola Wayne (Assistant Project Manager), Simon Coombes (Assistant Project Manager) and Kate Berritt (Head of Finance) all achieved their PRINCE2 Foundation accreditation.
This accreditation provides knowledge of how to plan, manage and deliver projects from start to finish using PRINCE2, the world’s leading project management method.
Furthermore, Kate Dinis and our Project Manager, Masterplanner and Urban Designer, Steve Logan, successfully took on the PRINCE2 Practitioner accreditation.
Following on from the initial foundation level, this accreditation builds on their knowledge to enable them to apply and tailor methodology in a live working environment.
We’re proud to have such a skilled and knowledgeable team – and are committed to continuing their development and training.
Why training is so important in project management
Achieving accreditations and training in construction project management is crucial for many reasons, including:
Industry standards and best practices
The industry is continually evolving, with new technologies, regulations and processes. Training ensures that project managers are not only well-versed in existing standards but can incorporate innovations which align with the latest best practices.
Staying updated on these standards and practices ensures that project managers are well-equipped with the knowledge they need to best handle projects efficiently and effectively – and in compliance with regulations.
Risk management
Development and infrastructure projects inherently come with risks.
With machinery, tight budgets, complex tasks and many workers on site – as well as the potential for unforeseen hazards – training is vital for helping project managers effectively understand and mitigate any risks.
A project manager armed with the necessary training and expertise will be able to assess risk in advance – and develop a strategy for proactively dealing with unexpected challenges – to reduce the likelihood of costly mistakes and delays.
Regulations compliance
Construction projects are subject to numerous regulations, particularly in the public sector.
Being accredited and well-trained ensures project managers are aware of any regulations and how to make sure their project adheres to them – whether that’s legal requirements, safety rules, quality standards or environmental regulations.
This helps to avoid potential legal issues and ensures the project stays on track.
Technical knowledge
Project management involves a wide range of skills, including programme management, cost planning and controls, planning, urban design and more.
Accredited programs provide project teams with the technical knowledge they need for effective management, collaboration, stakeholder engagement, decision-making and problem-solving.
Effective communication
Communication is key in project management, whether collaborating with a client, liaising with stakeholders or engaging with the public.
Clear communication helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures everyone is on the same page.
Accreditation and training programs often help to develop communication skills, enabling project managers to interact effectively with team members, stakeholders and clients.
Quality control
Accredited quality training programs emphasise the importance of maintaining standards throughout the project delivery process.
Training helps project managers implement quality control measures, ensuring that the project meets or exceeds the specified standards at completion.
Continuous improvement
The construction industry is dynamic, with new technologies and methodologies constantly emerging.
Ongoing training provides project managers with opportunities for continuous improvement, ensuring they stay on top of current industry trends and advancements to deliver the best results for clients and their projects.
Need project management support? Greyfriars can help
Receiving accreditations and undertaking training is essential for staying informed, managing risks, complying with regulations and developing the skills needed for successful project delivery.
Here at Greyfriars Project Management, we have the skills and knowledge you need – backed with extensive training qualification and accreditations – to ensure you get the very best for your project.
Whether you’re in the public, private, education, transport or charity sector, we’re on hand to help with the project management support you need.
Get in touch today to find out more.