BOOK REVIEW
Book Title: Investment-Centric Project Management: Advanced Strategies for Developing and Executing Successful Capital Projects
Author: Steven James Keays
Publisher: J. Ross Publishing
List Price: $69.95
Format: Hardcover, 439 pages
Publication Date: 2017
ISBN: 9781604271423
Reviewer: Denise Murray, PMP
Review Date: March 2019
Introduction
Investment-Centric Project Management is a treatise on the redefinition of project management. At the outset the author defines a project as the development of a Profitability Performing Asset which only ends when profit generation is realized. Taking into account today’s complex project environment, the book systematically recasts project execution methods and challenges the reader to make a mental paradigm shift regarding familiar PM methodologies. Project elements (networks, budgets, teams, et al) are approached from a unique perspective and prompt readers to question their own project management proclivities. With an extensive background in industrial projects the author takes the reader on a Jules Vern-type journey pioneering new project management methods.
Overview of Book’s Structure
A “who, what, when, where, why, how” formula is used to divide the book into parts—a fundamental formula to address project management fundamentals. Starting with “why,” Mr. Keays presents his purpose, theory, key concepts/definitions and personal position on the value of investment-centric project management. The second “where” part offers innovative notions on the project environment, budget mindset, organizational structure, and the definition of success. The third part (“how”) is somewhat like a procedures manual addressing activity/event sequencing and life-cycle phases. In part four a “who” discussion touches on staffing strategies and tactics as well as personnel selection considerations. Part five (“when”) is the live-action section wherein the project is underway and the challenges inherent in project execution are broached. The sixth “what” part wraps up the narrative by introducing tools and techniques in the context of project execution and closeout actions. Part seven is a collection of appendices, the bibliography and a lexicon.
Neologisms abound throughout the book (e.g., kyopia, directrix, valunomy/valunomic, misanger, and abdicratas) as well as acronyms—for which Mr. Keays provides definitions and uses. A reader’s vocabulary may be expanded with uncommon words such as esemplastic, ukases, sedulous, and virulence (unless one already routinely uses these words). The liberal use of figures, formulas, diagrams, and tables help the reader grasp concepts the author strives to convey. Innovative concepts are the hallmark of the book. These concepts are employed as a means to:
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About the Reviewer
Denise Murray
San Antonio, Texas, USA
Denise Murray’s professional experience includes thirteen years in defense as a project manager and an acquisition manager; and ten years in higher education as faculty, and senior administrator. She is a Project Management Professional and has a M.S. in Project Management from the George Washington University. She is currently a Program Management Analyst for the U.S. Air Force in Texas.
She can be reached at ndamurray@gmail.com or www.linkedin.com/in/dnmurray98
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