COMPREHENSIVE TRAINING COURSE IN PROJECT CYCLE MANAGEMENT 

INTRODUCTION

This course designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective project management. In today's dynamic and ever-evolving world, the ability to manage projects efficiently from inception to closure is a valuable skill sought after in various industries and sectors.

Project Cycle Management (PCM) is a structured approach that guides participants through every phase of a project, from identifying needs and stakeholders to planning, implementing, evaluating, and ultimately achieving project objectives. This training is designed to provide participants with a thorough understanding of PCM principles and practical tools to excel in project management.

Over the five days training period, participants will embark on a journey that will take them from the initial idea of a project to its successful implementation and eventual closure. Participants will learn to design projects that meet the needs of stakeholders, create robust project plans, manage resources, mitigate risks, evaluate project progress, and ensure long-term sustainability.

Our experienced instructors, experts in project management, will guide participants through each step of the project cycle. They will facilitate interactive discussions, practical exercises, real-world case studies, and group activities to reinforce learning. Participants will not only gain knowledge but also hands-on experience in applying PCM concepts.

Participants who successfully complete the course will receive a Certificate of Participation.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

By the end of this 5-day training course, participants will be able to:

1. Understand the principles and significance of Project Cycle Management (PCM).
2. Identify and analyze project needs, objectives, and stakeholders effectively.
3. Apply the Logical Framework Approach (LFA) for structuring project design.
4. Create well-defined project goals and objectives that align with project needs.
5. Formulate project activities, milestones, and budgets.
6. Assess and manage project risks and uncertainties.
7. Develop a detailed project plan, including a work breakdown structure and project schedule.
8. Understand the procurement and contracting procedures in project management.
9. Manage human resources and foster effective project teams.
10. Establish communication and reporting mechanisms for project progress.
11. Apply monitoring and evaluation (M&E) frameworks to track project progress and performance.
12. Differentiate between various types of project evaluations and select appropriate methodologies.
13. Collect, analyze, and interpret data for evaluation purposes.
14. Adapt and revise project plans and objectives based on evaluation findings.
15. Execute proper project closure and handover procedures.
16. Prepare comprehensive project closure reports.
17. Develop sustainability plans and exit strategies to ensure long-term project impact.
18. Present practical solutions for project management challenges and apply the knowledge gained during the course.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

The Comprehensive Project Cycle Management Training is designed for a diverse audience across various sectors and industries. This course is beneficial for individuals who are directly involved in project management or those who aspire to enhance their project management skills. The following professionals and groups should consider attending:

1. Project Managers: Those currently working in project management roles who want to improve their understanding of PCM and enhance their project management skills.
2. Project Team Members: Team members involved in various aspects of project execution, including planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.
3. Aspiring Project Managers: Individuals seeking to transition into project management roles or those looking to develop a strong foundation in project management practices.
4. Program and Portfolio Managers: Managers responsible for overseeing multiple projects and programs can benefit from a deeper understanding of PCM for effective oversight.
5. Development Practitioners: Professionals working in international development, NGOs, or humanitarian organizations who manage projects with an emphasis on social or environmental impact.
6. Government Officials: Public sector employees responsible for executing and overseeing government projects, infrastructure development, and public service initiatives.
7. Nonprofit Sector Professionals: Those working in nonprofit organizations focused on community development, advocacy, and social change.
8. Private Sector Professionals: Individuals in the corporate world involved in managing projects, product development, or process improvement.
9. Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners: Business owners looking to understand how to initiate, plan, and manage projects within their organizations.
10. Students and Academics: Students pursuing degrees in project management or related fields and academic professionals conducting research in project management.
11. Consultants: Independent consultants and advisers who offer project management expertise to organizations and clients.
12. Anyone Interested in Project Management: Individuals with a general interest in project management who want to gain valuable skills and knowledge.

COURSE OUTLINE

Module 1: Project Identification and Design

• Introduction to Project Cycle Management (PCM)
• Understanding the project life cycle
• Identifying project needs and objectives
• Stakeholder analysis and engagement
• Problem analysis and project justification
• Logical Framework Approach (LFA)
• Developing a project concept note
• Group exercise: Drafting a project concept note

Module 2: Project Planning and Formulation

• Review of the Logical Framework
• Setting project goals and objectives
• Defining project activities and milestones
• Budgeting and resource allocation
• Risk analysis and management
• Developing a work breakdown structure (WBS)
• Project scheduling and Gantt charts
• Group exercise: Creating a project plan

Module 3: Project Implementation and Monitoring

• Procurement and contracting in project management
• Human resource management and team building
• Communication and reporting procedures
• Project kick-off meeting
• Monitoring and evaluation (M&E) frameworks
• Performance indicators and data collection
• Monitoring project progress and quality
• Group exercise: Conducting a mock project kick-off meeting

Module 4: Project Evaluation and Adaptation

• Different types of project evaluations (mid-term, final, ex-post)
• Evaluation methodologies and tools
• Data collection, analysis, and interpretation
• Feedback and lessons learned
• Adapting the project based on evaluation findings
• Revising the project plan and objectives
• Best practices for project adaptation
• Group exercise: Conducting a mock project evaluation

Module 5: Project Closure and Sustainability

• Project closure and handover procedures
• Preparing project closure reports
• Capturing and documenting lessons learned
• Sustainability planning and exit strategies
• Final presentation of group exercises
• Course review and Q&A
• Awarding of Certificates 

General Notes

·      The instructor led trainings are delivered using a blended learning approach and comprises of presentations, guided sessions of practical exercise, web-based tutorials and group work. Our facilitators are seasoned industry experts with years of experience, working as professional and trainers in these fields.

·      The participants should be reasonably proficient in English as all facilitation and course materials will be offered in English.

·      Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with a certificate.

·      The training will be held at Kincaid Training Centre. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments and lunch.

·      All participants will additionally cater for their, travel expenses, visa application, insurance, and other personal expenses.

·      Accommodation and airport pickup are arranged upon request. For reservations contact the Training coordinator at Email: training@kincaiddevelopmentcenter.org or Tel: +254 724592901

·      This training can also be customized to suit the needs of your institution upon request. You can have it delivered in our Kincaid Training Centre or at a convenient location.