AI-Focused PM: (Project Management in the AI Era)

AI-Focused PM (Project Management in the AI Era) provides a comprehensive exploration of how project management is evolving from traditional frameworks to AI-driven practices, emphasising both foundational knowledge and emerging innovations. The book begins by clarifying the meaning and scope of project management, highlighting the distinctions between projects and ongoing operations, and explaining why structured approaches remain essential for success. It contrasts the classical waterfall method with agile practices, outlining their strengths, limitations, and the contexts where each is most effective. Through case studies, it also demonstrates the rise of hybrid models that combine predictability with flexibility. Understanding stakeholders and their influence is presented as another cornerstone of effective management, supported by tools such as the power-interest grid and salience model.

The second section moves into the planning and initiation stages of projects, where strategic alignment is emphasised. It discusses how to set SMART goals, link them to organisational objectives, and craft actionable requirements through methods such as interviews, prototyping, and user stories. Financial planning is also explored in depth, covering cost estimation techniques, budgeting processes, and risk management for financial sustainability. Quality assurance, resource planning, procurement strategies, and scheduling methods such as work breakdown structures, critical path method, and agile sprints are introduced as practical tools for ensuring balanced and efficient execution.

The book then turns to the execution and monitoring of projects, focusing on performance measurement, leadership, and adaptability. It presents key tools such as Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), Earned Value Management (EVM), and Agile metrics for tracking progress. Beyond tools, the book emphasises leadership and communication as central to success, while also addressing risk mitigation, cultural considerations, and the importance of capturing lessons learnt. Different approaches to managing projects of varying scale and complexity are explored, showing how methods can be tailored to fit specific contexts. The section also highlights the role of modern project management software such as MS Project, Jira, and Trello in supporting collaboration and real-world applications.

Finally, the book looks ahead to the transformative role of artificial intelligence in project leadership. It illustrates how tools like Copilot and GPT-5 are integrated into Agile frameworks such as SAFe, not only streamlining delivery but also enabling sharper decision-making, contextual intelligence, and role-specific guidance. The book discusses how AI can function as both a mirror and a mentor, offering real-time insights while also encouraging reflection and learning. Ethical considerations, including trust, accountability, and fairness, are examined alongside practical strategies for building resilient, AI-empowered organizations. The final chapters consider the democratisation of AI tools, the preparation of future project leaders, and the long-term vision of project management in an AI-driven world.

By weaving together traditional principles, Agile practices, and cutting-edge AI applications, AI-Focused PM (Project Management in the AI Era) serves as both a foundational textbook and a forward-looking guide. It equips readers with the knowledge, tools, and perspectives required to navigate a rapidly changing professional landscape where human leadership and intelligent technologies work hand in hand to deliver meaningful outcomes.