Project Management Information Systems - Introduction

Project Management Information Systems This module is all about software used for Project Management. A few examples include Oracle Primavera, Autodesk Constructware, Aconex, RIB STRATIS and Custom made apps. Hence let us read software instead of “system” for simplicity for the time being. In the case of software, there are different types of users. In this module, we are taking role as end users, may be a little bit more… as super users with administrative capacity. Anyway, we do not have the role of programmer, but we can enter data, we can format various data base, we can define data types, we can customize the data and information as seen by naïve end user. Hence for computerization of project management we need a suitable software and along with that sufficient hardware, database, network are also necessary. Trained personnel shall also be available at the disposal of the project manager. These elements contribute an information system. The programmer, simply, shall take care of the algorithm to convert data into information by adhering to the principles and theories in Civil engineering project management. The end user can be Project Manager, Site Engineer or similar personnel at project site. The programmer also shall present the functionalities of software in an elegant manner to the user. This is achieved via the interface generally termed as the dash board. From the dash board user can select any of the functions which may be necessary for managing project components such as scheduling, resource planning, allocation, network crashing, budgeting, reviews, progress monitoring etc. PMIS software is hence useful at planning stage, tendering stage, execution stage and post operations stage. There are many benefits of using PMIS in projects, even though they pose certain problems especially related to selection of appropriate system and IT related issues. Acquiring a PMIS, which is a corporate asset, is quite challenging and shall be in line with the priorities and strategy of the company. ,,, thank you.