However, at just under 400 pages, it is not exactly a rapid introduction to the subject - more a through one.

If you find yourself thrust into the role of PM, at no notice, and with no experience - a not exactly unheard of senario - this book is too comprehensive, and you'll find it almost impossible to find the 30 pages that you need if you have to hit the ground running within 24 hours. Should you be in this unfortunate situation, a thick skin and a brazen attitude of confidence will probably be more useful.

Even so, this book would still be a good investment, as it contains a concise guide to the essentials of the job, and would provide a solid platform of information to work from.

It could be argued that it omits "state of the art" techniques, but since these fall in and out of fashion at least twice a year, anyone who puts into practice the nuggets of guidance contained in this book, on a consistent basis, is virtually assured of a successful result.


Only if you want detailed analysis of micro management   January 2, 2006
 23 out of 29 found this review helpful

I have just finished managing a nine month project and being a fan of the "Dummies" books bought this for some help as to right proven methods and strategies. The book was largely unread or worse still used as the project developed since it ultimately provided little I could use.

This is because it has a very micro almost military approach to the subject. If you are into detailed planning, cost control and time management aspects and have lots of time to record and track the project in detail this approach is great. However as I was forced to learn early on it will not help you to be pragmatic and accept you cannot control all events as they unfold.

For the multi faceted project and the professional services environment I had to operate in the smaller and more practical "Project management Pocketbook" by Posner & Applegarth proved to be my lifesaver.


Very Good, Very Useful!   August 3, 2005
 10 out of 11 found this review helpful

As a first timer at managing a project I found "Project Management for Dummies" helped me very much. I had no previous knowledge of even the most basic project management jargon or process. I was able to use this book on its own without referring to any other book on project management - in other words it was comprehensive enough to stand alone. Thanks to this book my first couple of projects having a good result, I now feel confident enough to take on future projects.


Excellent book   November 12, 2003
 48 out of 52 found this review helpful

I bought this book on the recommendation of one of the earlier reviews, and I have to agree, it is a book I woudl recommend to any one in project management.
Its clear concise, and covers the major processes and topics in enough detail to be able to understand what project managment is, how to do it, and how not to fail


An excellent introduction to project management   March 13, 2001
 189 out of 192 found this review helpful

I have been a project manager for more than seven years, and have been lucky enough to receive some of the best project management training available, including some qualifications on the way. The Project Managment for dummies book is a rare combination of a book. It not only describes a project management method, (a WHAT to do), but also includes experience and tips from a very good project manager (a HOW to do it). The combination of what and how will guide even the most inexperienced to a successful project delivery. I bought this book with the intention of handing it to one of the less experienced project managers working with me, but I've decided to keep it for myself! Paul (Leeds)