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The division of all forms of human endeavour into clearly delineated
activities with given objectives and outcomes has been a feature of human life
for many thousands of years. The codification of these practices to produce
coherent principles of project management is a phenomenon of the last couple of
centuries. This has involved the development of analytical, planning and
management techniques to reduce risk and integrate varied inputs to bring major
investments to a successful conclusion in a timely and cost-effective manner.
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Major historical developments in this process have included:
- project management originated as a discipline in military engineering and
was subsequently adapted to civil engineering and all kinds of
non-construction activities in both public and private sectors
- mathematical techniques have been supplemented by computer software and
simulation technologies
- financial planning, strategy development and market analysis are now more
likely to form part of project management.
Project management has been central to SMEC's operations since its origins in
the Snowy Mountains Scheme more than 30 years ago. SMEC has refined its
capability constantly over the subsequent decades to reflect best practice in
project management. At one level SMEC applies generic project management
principles in all the disciplines in which the company works and in activities
ranging from studies to organisational development and the planning and
management of major infrastructure projects. Yet at another level SMEC is adept
at the adaptation of established project management techniques to suit the needs
and preferences of particular corporate or ethnic cultures while retaining the
benefits of an organised and systematic approach to complex tasks.
SMEC sees project management as increasingly a distinct area of professional
competence involving the orchestration of the many inputs required (financial,
technical and human) to turn concepts into working entities which are socially,
environmental and commercially sustainable. | |
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