A project manager in the USA, according to a 2006 PM Survey of Architecture, Engineering, Planning and Environmental Consulting Firms by Zweig White Information Services LLC (Natick, Mass.), worked on average 49 hours per week. Of this time he spends 39% with design or other technical activities, 36% for marketing and sales, only 11% he has time for his project management duties, 10% are needed for firm or office management and 4% for miscellaneous tasks.
Although this survey only covers one industry sector the “misuse” of project managers also in other industries for tasks not belonging to the profession, especially in technical contributions and business development, appears to be the rule rather than the exception. This might also explain why many troubled projects significantly improve when the well skilled, but overwhelmed by “PM on the side” project manager is relieved by assigning an additional project manager who is dedicated to deal exclusively with the management of the project (including the project’s recovery).
Conclusion: Project management is not a “part time job”!
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