Can someone tell me the basics of PROJECT MANAGEMENT?

I would say the basics of project management relate to the ability to determine a task, and ensure that it gets delivered on time, within cost, and to an agreed level of quality - every time.

The role of project manager is to ensure that something happens, irrespective of whatever comes in its way. That involves assessing risk of failure, determining probable obstacles and solutioning resolutions to them; creating, monitoring and adapting when necessary a plan (or series of steps) that will definitely, without question, ensure that the stated objective of your project gets delivered.

In a nutshell, project management is about creating a magic wand and waving it to ensure that your version of the world happens, and no other possibility exists.

Hey Ima n architecture student- architects sometimes carry out project management rather than project managers. Here's the basics: ORGANISE! Organise contractors, builders, chippies, sparkys etc, when they arrive on site and what they do and when. Order materials bricks cement etc etc, arrange when they need to arrive on site. Make sure all health and safety is done, and the best part; quality control, hiring and firing! You will liaise with architect, client, contractors, and people like planning officers and building control officers etc etc. A hectic job but good money, and beats sitting at a supermarket till! Good luck with it!

Liaising with the various people/agencies/companies involved in the project and making sure it is finished on time and on budget. Can be a nightmare!!!!!!