We create lists to help us prioritize tasks and stay on schedule. Sometimes those lists help us accomplish those tasks faster. Sometimes those lists simply chain us to an archaic way of doing things. Having a "To Do" list is a good thing if you don't let it prevent you from thinking outside the box. In this column, Elisabeth explains why the agenda items that don't make the list can often be some of the most important.

As the layer between the business sponsor and the end user, and as the one who is ultimately responsible for the success of a project, project managers occupy a challenging role. Often, we find ourselves playing the role of leader, diplomat, counselor, and dare I say it, salesperson. To achieve success, it is crucial to build a solid foundation of teamwork and respect among those involved in the project. In this article, Patrick Graves explains how this can be accomplished.

As you move from project to project, have you ever marveled at how the meaning of the word "schedule" seems to change? This is not a delusion! "Schedule" is an emotionally charged word. At present there's no agreement about what a schedule is, or what it's supposed to do. All we know for sure is that the word is supposed to get people excited.

Many managers believe that overtime, even extended overtime is a good thing, and will help a project make progress. However, most technical people who try to work more than two weeks of overtime make huge numbers of mistakes. Often, they don't realize the mistakes and have already wasted a lot of time and money.