In this chapter, we went through the emerging and changing project management profession. We discovered that some basic and essential project management techniques can easily make a great difference in our project management practice. Smart planned project lifecycles and phases, along with respecting the phase-based approach and simple techniques such as the WBS, will bring instant value to your project services chain. We also learned that by safeguarding the four pillars of project success, a solid undercarriage for your project vehicle is guaranteed—a perfect insurance for bumpy roads. Do not be mislead by the skeptics' criticism of project management. We learned that their case is not strong enough to bring down the need for project management. However, we must consider and treat the implementation of a new methodology as an organizational change management initiative.

In the next chapter, we will learn and experience how Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step will empower you to sell new implementation projects and how it will efficiently prepare you for the upcoming project.