Reimo, a job shadow from Tallinn Technical University Taltech visited the Uptime Tallinn office to see one of the project manager’s usual working days. He finished the day with a positive impression, and does not doubt any more whether the project manager’s job could be suitable for him – certainly it is, but he would like to be more familiar with various aspects. His next practice may answer further questions.
How did the project manager / analyst workday look – what was done during the day and what was most interesting?
The day started with a client meeting, where some developers also participated with a project manager / analyst.
They answered various questions and agreed tasks for the next sprint. Back in the office, I attended a couple of meetings where projects were handed over from one project manager to another and we tested a couple of developments that were still “buggy”.
Most of all, I liked the client meeting and the testing part because I saw the discussion with the client and got familiar with the existing application that needed to be tested.
What did the project manager say about her work and what questions did you have?
The project manager said that Uptime does not have a classic analyst job, but generally the analyst is also a project manager who is responsible for the deadlines, budget and testing of the work. It means she takes responsibility from start to finish in any project.
I had several questions, such as how to keep track of tasks, how to manage the calendar, make documentation and draw schemas.
How did the image of a project manager’s job change for you?
It changed my image a little bit – especially about the fact that the project manager can use many different skills in their role. In addition to analysis and project management, they’re also engaged in testing, budgeting, billing and finally being like a “helpdesk” for the customer.
I realize that this may not be the case in other companies, but it is good to see different practices and I can fully understand why in Uptime the project manager also takes on other roles, not just a project manager.
What have been your past contacts with IT and software development and project management?
I have participated in an SAP business software deployment project mainly as a tester, but I have not managed projects myself. Participation in the project gave me impetus and interest, and I am currently studying and analysing information systems at Tallinn University of Technology. That’s where my basic knowledge of software development comes from.
Would you recommend this profession to others (friends)?
Depends on the person. I would recommend it to those who like a varied and tight agenda with lots of communication, a bit of tension and time pressure. I would not recommend this job for a person who prefers a specific plan and routine and is rather an introverted geek or nerd type.
What decision did you make, could it be your future profession? Why?
Absolutely. I like the variability and the fact that there are some clearly visible results at work and I can see that things are happening.
I would leave the decision open right now because I do not yet know exactly what my stronger side will be – to do the analysis or simply to manage the project. I haven’t really practiced yet, but fortunately in Uptime I could try both later.
So I’m sure that when I do more work experience next year, I can come and find out.
