John Estrella’s “Lessons learned in Project Management” Is a straightforward and simple book. Don’t let the term simple fool you. It’s clear cut approach provides sound program management advice from many successful project managers covering “140 topics in 140 words or less.” Ingeniously, Mr. Estrella solicited comments using Twitter.  Due to the limited character count via Twitter, each topic gets to the point immediately.

Some of my favorite tips:

• Tip 1. Focus on the terrible triplets: risks, plans and business case. No matter what the project, how often do we get thrown off course on these?
• Tip 11. Two ears and one mouth; use them in proportion. How many of you work with people who could benefit from this advice?
• Tip 52. Do not be afraid to speak up. It’s easy to keep your mouth shut and get on the road to Abilene. What’s hard is to speak up and sell your idea.

Weather you are learning or just knocking the cobwebs out, this book is full of knowledge. Bottom line… A great short read well worth the time and money.

References:

Lessons Learned in Project Management (2010) Estrella, John A. Agilitek Corp; Markham, Ontario, Canada. 100 pages.