In Scope: Managing Projects at UW–Madison
In Scope is designed for managers of small- to medium-sized projects at UW–Madison.
In this series, project management experts address managing projects in the university environment, introduce project management methods and resources, and facilitate conversations around common problems and solutions.
Presenters assign minimal prework (e.g., videos or articles) for each discussion; prework materials are accessible through the Canvas learning management system.
Upon the completion of each In Scope session, the event recording and session materials are archived in the corresponding Canvas module to serve as a resource for participants.
All sessions are online. Participants can register for the entire series or select individual sessions.
Past Session Recordings
All In Scope session recordings are archived in Canvas, which requires registration and a valid NetID. Registrants may view recordings after a session has passed.
Spring 2025 Schedule
Tools and Tactics for Recovering Troubled Projects
February 21 | 10:00–11:00 a.m.
Online
Presented by Dr. Shawn Belling, faculty, College of Engineering
Content level: intermediate
This interactive session will address the challenges of troubled projects and provide you with a toolkit to identify issues, replan and respond effectively, and achieve project goals. Combining real-world examples with adaptable methodologies, this session is applicable across various scenarios and types of projects.
During this session, you will learn to diagnose root causes of project failure, implement effective stakeholder engagement strategies, and leverage various tools to re-establish timelines and budgets. By the end of this session, you will have the knowledge and techniques to identify troubled projects and drive successful recovery, ultimately improving team performance and organizational outcomes.
Register
Thriving Through Transitions: Understanding the Personal Dynamics of Organizational Change
March 5 | 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Online
Presented by Jen Erickson, capacity building lead, Office of Strategic Consulting, and Theresa Kim, program manager and facilitator, Office of Human Resources
Content level: introductory
In the dynamic field of project management, change is a constant. However, it’s not merely the change itself that presents challenges—it’s the way we navigate transition that significantly impacts our projects and teams. Recognizing this distinction is crucial for effective project leadership. Join us for an interactive session designed to equip you with practical tools and a robust framework to manage transitions effectively. Gain the skills you need to lead your team through change with confidence and success.
Follow-Up Meeting: For participants of this session, there will be an optional follow-up Zoom meeting on March 13 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. This meeting will focus on conversation and discussion, providing participants with the opportunity to delve deeper into the topics covered. No presentations—just a forum for reflection and sharing. Save the date! A separate email invitation will be sent to registrants following the March 5 In Scope session.
Register
Launching Projects the Right Way: Setting the Stage for Success
March 13 | 1:00–2:00 p.m.
Online
Presented by Margaret Debrauske, senior project manager, Office of Strategic Consulting
Content level: introductory
Congratulations! Your project has been given the green light, and the excitement is real! Now is the time to harness that momentum and kick things off the right way.
In this interactive session, you’ll learn the essential strategies to plan, execute, and manage the most critical processes of your project with confidence—right from the start. You’ll have the chance to sharpen your leadership skills as a project manager and learn how to inspire your team every step of the way. Discover proven methods to map out and structure your project from day one, best practices for anticipating roadblocks and keeping your timeline on track, and key leadership techniques to foster collaboration and keep your team motivated through every phase.
Whether you’re leading your first project or refining your existing skills, this session will equip you with practical tools and insights to guide your project from kickoff to celebration.
Register
Leveraging Work Breakdown Structures for Effective Project Planning and Tracking
April 9 | 2:00–3:00 p.m.
Online
Presented by Dr. Ardala Katzfuss, professor, Applied Drug Development Program, School of Pharmacy
Content level: intermediate
A work breakdown structure (WBS) is a cornerstone of effective project planning, providing a manageable breakdown of project scope. Extending the WBS into a project network (a visual representation of a project’s tasks, activities, and dependencies) provides a clearer view of the project timeline and critical task dependencies.
In this session, you will learn the mechanics of network diagrams, including techniques for estimating task durations and identifying relationships between tasks. This visual representation will help you sequences tasks chronologically and provide a roadmap for tracking your project’s progress, ensuring timely completion.
This session builds on concepts from the fall 2024 In Scope session on Work Breakdown Structures. However, participation in that session is not a prerequisite for joining this one.
Register
Transforming Your Daily Work: Leveraging Generative AI for Project Management
May 8 | 1:00–2:00 p.m.
Presented by Margaret Murphy, learning and development manager, Facilities Planning & Management
Content level: introductory
Discover how generative artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing project management by boosting efficiency and driving innovation. In this session, you’ll explore AI tools that streamline repetitive tasks, enhance productivity, and support decision-making.
Through group activities and real-world examples, you’ll learn how to:
- Utilize AI to develop project management tasks and work plans, freeing up time for strategic work.
- Generate documents such as project charters, status updates, communications, presentations, and meeting agendas.
- Enhance decision-making by summarizing information and providing actionable insights.
By the end of the session, you’ll gain practical strategies to integrate generative AI into your workflow, improving efficiency, clarity, and success in your projects.
Register