The most essential ingredient in any project is The Plan. A solid project plan is the model from which the project, and all its different functions, is constructed. In essence, it charts the entire project's course; as such, the project plan needs to be as detailed and precise as possible, though obviously allowing for unforeseen contingencies.

A wise man once said, "If you fail to plan, plan to fail." Creating a project plan is the first thing you should do when undertaking any kind of project. Often, project planning is ignored in favour of getting on with the job at hand. However, many people fail to realise the value of a project plan in saving time, money and many problems.

Below are five important facts to know about a sound plan for your project:

Project plans are dynamic

A project plan is not a fixed object; it is a set of 'living' documents that will evolve and change as the project progresses and unfolds. Like a roadmap, it provides the direction for the project. But, if an obstacle arises, so it is the responsibility of the Project Manager and the project team to find a detour to a better path.

Project planning is a creative process

The creativity that is required in planning a project should be derived from all parties who have a vested interest in the project and its success. As ideas and decisions change and new thoughts and information become available, so the project plan should be adapted to incorporate these changes.

Project planning is not a linear process

The processes involved in creating a project plan do not necessarily run in a straight line. Sometimes planning activities are related to and dependent upon other decisions. As an example: developing project objectives is dependent upon finalising the project's scope; while enumerating the deliverables can only occur once the scope and objectives are completed.

Project plans need to be revisited and updated constantly

The Project Manager and the project team must constantly reaffirm the scope and objectives of the project plan so that the plan stays current and relevant.

Project planning should not go on indefinitely

The planning stage of the project and the project plan need to be a controlled process with a finite end. It needs to be a managed process that is kept to a tight schedule. The aim is to avoid becoming paralysed in the planning process. Set realistic time frames and planning goals.

The fundamental premise of good project management states that the project manager's greatest challenge is effectively balancing the components of time, cost, scope, quality, and expectations. All of which are components of a project plan that will act as a defined guideline for the project at hand.

One solution to your project management software requirements could be Microsoft Project 2003. And the key to becoming well-versed in this application is with training for Microsoft Project 2003.