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.
Fall 2026 Schedule
When the Project You Inherit Isn’t the Project You Expected
September 30 | 2:00–3:00 p.m.
Online
Presented by Lauranne Bailey, IT project manager, Interdisciplinary Professional Programs, College of Engineering
Content level: intermediate
When you inherit a project, you rarely start with a clean slate. You may be working from incomplete documentation, joining a team that has changed, managing shifting priorities, or balancing competing perspectives. This session explores practical strategies for building a shared understanding establishing project clarity, and moving a complex project forward, even when the path isn’t clear.
Register
Managing the Work Behind the Work: Personal Productivity Toolkit for Project Managers
October 13 | 2:00–3:00 p.m.
Online
Presented by Joe Cavanaugh, project manager, Office of Informatics, School of Medicine and Public Health
Content level: introductory
Project management often focuses on managing scope, schedule, and budget. Just as important is managing yourself. This session explores practical techniques for staying organized, reducing mental clutter, and building personal systems that help you stay on top of your work. You will leave with actionable strategies for processing information and getting things done.
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The Closet Effect: Why Change Gets Messy—and How to Fix It
November 12 | 10:00–11:00 a.m.
Online
Presented by Grace Kilpatrick, senior project manager, Office of Strategic Consulting
Content level: introductory
A custom closet organization system promises a more organized, efficient space, but first comes the messy chaos of emptying, sorting, and reorganizing. Organizational change works the same way. Leaders often focus on the business case, while employees are focused on how the change will affect their work. And here’s the reality: we don’t know where resistance will surface until we encounter it. That’s why change management plans must be iterative and flexible. This session explores practical approaches for assessing readiness, addressing resistance, and staying nimble so change sticks without leaving the “living room” in chaos.
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What Every Project Manager Should Know About Communication Planning
December 10 | 2:00–3:00 p.m.
Online
Presented by Emily Beach, director of communications, Office of the Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration
Content level: introductory
No matter the size and scope of a project, timely and relevant communications with stakeholders can make or break success. This session explores the essential elements of a communication plan, how stakeholder analyses support communication, UW–-Madison communication tools and resources, and practical templates for planning and implementing communication deliverables. You will learn how to build communication plans that keep stakeholders informed, engaged, and ready for change.
Register