int@j holds first 'Software Project Management' training course in Jordan

The first to be conducted in Jordan, the 'Software Project Management' training program was aimed at helping organizations improve their software development practices.

Many computer software companies, and other companies alike, encounter problems such as cost overruns, schedule delays, and failure to meet users' needs. As a result, project management skills have become crucial in every organization. The art of applying knowledge, skills, tools and techniques to project activities in order to meet or exceed stakeholder needs and expectations has become necessary to ensure a company's success.

Software project management differs from managing hardware like projects because of the different nature of Software itself. At many instances software managers lack the domain knowledge necessary to truly understand the requirements of a project.

During the course, participants were taught to identify the five dimensions that need to be managed on a Software Project: features; quality; cost; schedule; and staff.

Participants were also taught how to identify the best software development methods; ensure that the proper time is allocated for defining requirements; schedule efficiently and avoid costly delays; and estimate software size and development time frames.

"The participants were very active, and the level of their knowledge is very good but it is important to put this knowledge into real practice in Jordan, as Jordanian Companies don't apply this knowledge to full extent," said Mr. Klucs.

The Jordanian software industry is highly ranked within the region due to the quality and professionalism of companies. Still, more marketing efforts need to be put in place in order to penetrate international, specifically the EU market. "If companies would like to enter foreign markets, then efforts should be made to obtain quality certification such as CMM or ISO, in order to gain trust, confidence and demonstrate repeatable, mature and reliable processes. This is why quite a few components of quality systems were discussed during the Software Management course."

The course was highly successful and positive feedback was given by the participants who requested more training sessions to discuss selected topics.

As the organizer of many training events, int@j has clearly positioned itself as an association that strives to contribute to the creation of a pool of skilled ICT professionals in Jordan.