Most companies split project management roles:
- One for managing the development team
- One for handling clients
Me? I do both! 😎
This is the story of my hybrid PM life, where software meets real-world installations, and every project is an adventure.
The Project Life Cycle
My work spans two worlds:
- Working Phase: A mix of WFH, office days, site recces, and fabrication quality checks.
- Installation Phase: This is where the real excitement begins.
Mall Installation Reality Check
Imagine this:
- 10 PM: Start work when the mall closes and shoppers leave.
- 6 AM: Everything must be perfect before the doors reopen.
- Timeline? Non-negotiable – especially when the Prime Minister is coming!
- Night Buddy: My husband Lanka, the MVP of support, keeping me company during those long nights. 🌙
[Behind this post: That’s us, taking a midnight break at the mall during an installation. The perks of PM life – empty mall seats and quality time, even at work! 😄]
The Plot Twist
Being an IT Project Manager isn’t just about laptops and code. It’s about:
- Late-Night Mall Adventures: Transforming spaces while the world sleeps.
- Real-Time Problem-Solving: Fixing issues on the fly with no room for error.
- Working Against the Clock: Every second counts when the mall reopens at dawn.
- Hands-On Industry Experience: Bridging the gap between virtual plans and real-world execution.
Key Learnings
- Software Deadlines Can Be Flexible, but Event Dates Are Set in Stone: There’s no “pushing back” a VIP event.
- Your Timeline Must Be Realistic and Alive: Plan meticulously, but be ready to adapt.
- Build a Team That Owns Their Deadlines: Accountability is everything.
- Get Out from Behind the Screen: Real-world experience adds depth to your skills.
The Takeaway
To all tech PMs: Don’t limit yourself to the virtual world. The real magic happens when code meets reality. Embrace the challenges, step out of your comfort zone, and discover the thrill of hands-on project management.
What’s your craziest installation story? I’d love to hear about your adventures!
