The key competences of successful project managers

Abstract

Skilful project management will add value to business. The project manager’s ability to
mobilize and combine resources plays a vital role in successful project management. Leadership and
management competences are identified and viewed as part of project management. The research
data is based on Laurea’s student analysis of project management. Laurea’s implementation in business
development projects with real-life companies is part of the study programme for students.
Individual skills of students used in these projects will be examined and compared to successful
project management and leadership. The main results of the research verified that communication is
the main key competence for project success. Other key competences such as leadership attitude,
a Project Manager’s motivational behaviour and project planning were included in the most critical
factors of a project success.