How to Become a Software Project Manager
Managing a software project requires the ability to see a project through to its end. Managers must be able to design and test software as well as manage the teams that are helping to create it. Deadlines are everything when it comes to software, so a good manager is necessary to keep the project moving.
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Instructions
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Become a Software Project Manager
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Get certified. Going through a certification program can make it easier for you to become a software project manager, because your future boss will have an idea of your competency and background. Visit Software Certifications for more information about certification programs (see Resources below).
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Get a bachelor's degree in computers and an MBA at a minimum before applying for a job. Education plus on-the-job experience makes for a well-rounded software project manager.
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Speak to your potential employer in depth about the project and his expectations of you. Some projects need a manager with highly specialized skills, while others are better for generalists.
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Become familiar with "Extreme Programming." This methodology is often used in software projects to develop a successful program and stay organized while doing it. The process involves finishing smaller projects in lieu of of a large batch of process.
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Focus on risk. Projects will have problems that mostly arise from risky situations that start because aspects of the project are still unknown. Reduce this risk by answering questions as they arise, which will limit what is unknown and, in turn, limit the risk of failure.
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Become a good communicator by listening to others and taking what they have to say into consideration in your decision-making. A good project manager knows how to listen and implement good suggestions while encouraging employees to think up new strategies when things fall flat.
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Get experience in coding. A good manager should have a working knowledge of the programming behind the software. Try to take a class before starting a project.
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Tips & Warnings
Build a team of people who enjoy working with one another to get things done smoothly. You don't want one team member taking on more of the work because another one is slacking off.
Do not set deadlines you can't meet. Always give your team a buffer of a few days to a week depending on the project so you can have time to handle unexpected problems that will crop up.
