Books on Project Management: Discover the Top 20 List

Are you looking for the ultimate guide to project management? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about project management that will equip you with the knowledge and skills to effectively lead and execute successful projects. Whether you’re a seasoned project manager or just starting out in the field, these books cover everything from agile methodologies to risk management and stakeholder communication. Get ready to expand your expertise and take your project management skills to the next level with these top-notch reads. Let’s dive into the world of project management books and unleash your full potential!

20 Best Project Management Books

The Fast Forward MBA in Project Management

by Eric Verzuh

The Fast Forward MBA in Project Management by Eric Verzuh is a comprehensive and practical guide for anyone looking to master the art of project management. This book is packed with valuable insights, tips, and techniques that can help you navigate through the complexities of project management with ease. Verzuh breaks down the key concepts of project management in a way that is easy to understand and apply, making it an invaluable resource for both beginners and seasoned professionals alike.

Whether you are a business student, a project manager, or an entrepreneur, this book about project management is a must-read. It covers everything from project planning and execution to risk management and stakeholder communication, providing you with the knowledge and tools you need to succeed in any project management role. With its clear and concise writing style, The Fast Forward MBA in Project Management is an essential resource for anyone looking to enhance their skills and excel in the world of project management.

A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide)

by Project Management Institute

A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide) by Project Management Institute is a comprehensive book on project management that provides a standard framework and best practices for managing projects. It covers the fundamental processes, tools, and techniques required for successful project management, making it an essential resource for project managers, team members, and anyone involved in project work.

This book about project management is widely recognized as the go-to guide for project management professionals and is regularly updated to reflect the latest industry trends and practices. It outlines the key concepts of project management, including scope, time, cost, quality, communication, risk, and procurement management, making it a valuable reference for both new and experienced project managers.

Whether you are studying for a project management certification or looking to enhance your project management skills, the PMBOK® Guide offers a wealth of knowledge and practical insights to help you successfully plan, execute, and close out projects.

Project Management Absolute Beginner’s Guide

by Greg Horine

Project Management Absolute Beginner’s Guide by Greg Horine is a comprehensive and easy-to-understand book on project management. Whether you’re new to project management or looking to brush up on your skills, this book has got you covered. Horine breaks down complex project management concepts into simple, actionable steps, making it perfect for beginners.

This project management book covers everything from initiating and planning a project to executing, monitoring, controlling, and closing it. It also delves into essential topics such as risk management, stakeholder communication, and team leadership. With practical tips, real-world examples, and handy checklists, this book about project management equips readers with the knowledge and tools to successfully manage projects of any size and scope.

Horine’s clear and engaging writing style makes the subject of project management accessible and enjoyable. Whether you’re a student, aspiring project manager, or someone looking to improve their project management skills, Project Management Absolute Beginner’s Guide is an invaluable resource for mastering the art of project management.

The Project Management Tool Kit: 100 Tips and Techniques for Getting the Job Done Right

by Tom Kendrick

The Project Management Tool Kit is a comprehensive guide for anyone involved in managing projects. Written by Tom Kendrick, this book on project management offers 100 practical tips and techniques to help readers successfully navigate the complexities of project management. Whether you are a seasoned project manager or new to the field, Kendrick’s insights provide valuable strategies for getting the job done right.

This project management book covers a wide range of topics, including planning, scheduling, budgeting, risk management, and communication. Kendrick’s approach is highly practical, offering clear and actionable advice that can be applied to any project, regardless of size or industry. With real-world examples and easy-to-understand language, The Project Management Tool Kit is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their project management skills.

Whether you’re looking to enhance your project management capabilities or seeking guidance on specific project challenges, this book about project management is an invaluable tool for achieving success in your endeavors.

Project Management for Dummies

by Stanley E. Portny

Project Management for Dummies, authored by Stanley E. Portny, is a comprehensive guide that demystifies the complexities of managing projects. This easy-to-understand book about project management covers all aspects of project management, including planning, execution, monitoring, and closing. It provides practical tips, techniques, and tools for successfully managing projects, regardless of size or industry.

Portny breaks down the essential concepts of project management, making it accessible to beginners and a valuable resource for experienced project managers. The book on project management also includes real-life case studies, examples, and templates, offering readers a hands-on approach to learning project management best practices.

Whether you’re a professional looking to enhance your project management skills or a novice seeking to understand the fundamentals, Project Management for Dummies is a must-read. With its engaging writing style and actionable insights, this project management book is an indispensable resource for anyone involved in managing projects.

Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling

by Harold Kerzner

Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling by Harold Kerzner is a comprehensive and authoritative guide for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of managing projects. This book on project management offers a holistic approach to planning, scheduling, and controlling projects, emphasizing the system dynamics that underpin successful project management.

Kerzner’s book about project management covers a wide range of topics, including project initiation, execution, and closure, as well as risk management, quality control, and team leadership. The author draws on his extensive experience and expertise in project management to provide practical insights and real-world examples, making this project management book an invaluable resource for both novice and experienced project managers.

Whether you’re a student, a professional project manager, or a business leader looking to improve your organization’s project management capabilities, Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling is an essential read that will help you navigate the complexities of project management with confidence and competence.

The Project Manager’s Guide to Mastering Agile: Principles and Practices for an Adaptive Approach

by Charles G. Cobb

The Project Manager’s Guide to Mastering Agile: Principles and Practices for an Adaptive Approach by Charles G. Cobb is a comprehensive book on project management that explores the principles and practices of agile methodology. This book is a valuable resource for project managers looking to adopt a more adaptive and flexible approach to managing projects.

Cobb provides a clear and practical guide to understanding and implementing agile principles in project management, offering insights into how to effectively lead teams, plan and execute projects, and adapt to change in a fast-paced environment. The book covers key topics such as agile frameworks, collaboration, communication, and continuous improvement, making it an essential read for anyone seeking to master the agile approach.

With its accessible writing style and real-world examples, The Project Manager’s Guide to Mastering Agile is a must-read for project managers, team leaders, and anyone interested in learning more about agile project management methodologies. Whether you are new to agile or looking to enhance your skills, this book offers practical guidance and actionable strategies for success.

The Project Manager’s Guide to Health Information Technology Implementation

by Susan M. Houston

The Project Manager’s Guide to Health Information Technology Implementation by Susan M. Houston is a comprehensive book on project management specifically tailored for the healthcare industry. This practical guide provides project managers with the essential tools and strategies needed to successfully navigate the complex landscape of health information technology implementation.

Houston’s expertise shines through as she delves into key topics such as system selection, vendor management, workflow analysis, and change management. By combining her deep understanding of project management principles with the unique challenges of healthcare IT, she equips project managers with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead successful implementations.

Through real-world examples and case studies, Houston offers valuable insights and best practices that can be applied to a wide range of healthcare IT projects. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the field, this project management book is an indispensable resource for anyone involved in healthcare IT implementation.

Project Management: A Managerial Approach

by Jack R. Meredith and Samuel J. Mantel Jr.

Project Management: A Managerial Approach by Jack R. Meredith and Samuel J. Mantel Jr. is a comprehensive and insightful book on project management. It provides a practical and strategic approach to managing projects in various industries, emphasizing the importance of effective leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Readers will gain a deep understanding of the principles, processes, and techniques essential for successful project management. The book covers key topics such as project planning, scheduling, budgeting, risk management, and quality control, offering valuable insights and practical guidance for both novice and experienced project managers.

With its clear and engaging writing style, Project Management: A Managerial Approach presents real-world case studies, examples, and exercises to help readers apply the concepts and tools discussed. Whether you are a student, a professional, or a business leader, this book about project management is an invaluable resource for enhancing your project management skills and achieving project success.

The Mythical Man-Month: Essays on Software Engineering

by Frederick P. Brooks Jr.

The Mythical Man-Month: Essays on Software Engineering by Frederick P. Brooks Jr. is a classic book on project management that offers timeless insights into the challenges of managing software development projects. Originally published in 1975, this influential work explores the complexities of team dynamics, scheduling, and the impact of adding manpower to a late software project.

Brooks’ central thesis is that adding more people to a late project only makes it later, a concept known as “Brooks’ law.” He draws on his experiences at IBM to illustrate the pitfalls of mismanaged projects and offers practical advice for addressing common issues in software development.

With a blend of technical expertise and engaging storytelling, Brooks presents a compelling case for rethinking traditional approaches to managing software projects. His insights continue to resonate with software engineers, project managers, and business leaders, making The Mythical Man-Month a must-read book about project management for anyone involved in the technology industry.

The Art of Project Management

by Scott Berkun

The Art of Project Management by Scott Berkun is a comprehensive and insightful book on project management. Berkun, a former Microsoft employee, shares his experiences and lessons learned from managing projects in the tech industry. The book is filled with practical advice, real-world examples, and thought-provoking insights that make it a valuable resource for both novice and experienced project managers.

Berkun’s writing style is engaging and easy to follow, making complex project management concepts accessible to a wide audience. He covers a wide range of topics, including team dynamics, communication strategies, and decision-making processes, providing readers with a holistic understanding of what it takes to successfully lead a project to completion.

Whether you’re a seasoned project manager or just starting out in the field, The Art of Project Management offers valuable perspectives and actionable tips that can help you navigate the challenges of managing complex projects. This book about project management is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their project management skills and deliver successful outcomes.

A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide)

by Project Management Institute

A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide) by Project Management Institute is a comprehensive book on project management, providing a detailed framework for managing projects effectively. This internationally recognized guide offers essential standards, guidelines, and best practices for project management, making it a valuable resource for both experienced professionals and those new to the field. With its practical approach and wealth of information, this book about project management serves as a go-to reference for project managers, team members, and stakeholders across various industries. It covers key concepts such as project integration, scope, time, cost, quality, human resources, communications, risk management, procurement, and stakeholder management. The PMBOK Guide is an indispensable tool for anyone seeking to improve their project management skills and deliver successful outcomes. Whether you’re preparing for the PMP certification or looking to enhance your project management knowledge, this project management book is an essential addition to your library.

Scrum: The Art of Doing Twice the Work in Half the Time

by Jeff Sutherland

Scrum: The Art of Doing Twice the Work in Half the Time is a revolutionary book on project management that introduces an innovative approach to delivering high-quality results in a fraction of the time. Author Jeff Sutherland, one of the creators of the Scrum framework, presents a powerful methodology that has transformed the way teams work and achieve their goals.

Sutherland draws on his extensive experience in software development and business to demonstrate how the Scrum framework can be applied to any project, regardless of its complexity or industry. By emphasizing collaboration, flexibility, and continuous improvement, Scrum enables teams to adapt to changing circumstances and deliver valuable outcomes more efficiently.

This project management book provides practical insights, real-world examples, and actionable strategies for implementing Scrum in any organization. It challenges traditional approaches to project management and offers a compelling alternative that has been proven to maximize productivity and minimize time to market.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a newcomer to the field, Scrum offers valuable principles and practices that can revolutionize the way you approach projects and achieve exceptional results.

Critical Chain: A Business Novel

by Eliyahu M. Goldratt

Critical Chain: A Business Novel by Eliyahu M. Goldratt is a captivating book on project management that takes readers on a journey through the challenges of managing complex projects. Through a compelling narrative, Goldratt introduces the concept of critical chain, a method for managing project schedules and resources more effectively.

The story follows a struggling project manager who is introduced to the critical chain approach and learns how to apply it to his own projects. Along the way, readers are taken through the principles of critical chain management and how it can be used to overcome common project management obstacles such as delays, resource constraints, and uncertainty.

Through its engaging storytelling and practical insights, Critical Chain offers a fresh perspective on project management and provides valuable lessons for anyone involved in managing projects. Whether you’re a seasoned project manager or new to the field, this book about project management is sure to provide you with valuable insights and practical strategies for improving your project management skills.

Making Things Happen: Mastering Project Management

by Scott Berkun

Making Things Happen: Mastering Project Management by Scott Berkun is a comprehensive and engaging book on project management. Berkun, a former Microsoft project manager, shares his insights and experiences to help readers understand the complexities of managing projects effectively. The book covers a wide range of topics, including team communication, decision making, and leadership, making it a valuable resource for both novice and experienced project managers.

Berkun’s writing style is approachable and practical, making the concepts easy to understand and apply in real-world situations. He provides practical advice and strategies for handling common project management challenges, such as dealing with difficult stakeholders and managing project scope.

Overall, Making Things Happen is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their project management skills. Whether you’re a seasoned project manager or just starting out in the field, this book about project management is sure to provide valuable insights and practical tips for mastering the art of project management.

The Lean Startup: How Today’s Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses

by Eric Ries

The Lean Startup by Eric Ries is a groundbreaking book on project management that revolutionizes the way entrepreneurs approach building and growing their businesses. Ries introduces the concept of continuous innovation, emphasizing the importance of testing ideas, measuring progress, and making data-driven decisions. The book presents a methodology that enables startups to adapt and adjust their strategies quickly in response to customer feedback and market changes, ultimately leading to the creation of radically successful businesses.

Ries draws on his own experiences as a startup founder and combines them with insights from established companies to provide a practical framework for building a sustainable business. The Lean Startup is filled with real-world examples and case studies that illustrate the principles in action, making it an engaging and informative read for anyone looking to launch a new venture or drive innovation within an existing organization. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this book about project management is a must-read for anyone seeking to navigate the unpredictable and competitive landscape of the business world.

Agile Project Management For Dummies

by Mark C. Layton

Agile Project Management For Dummies by Mark C. Layton is an essential read for anyone looking to master the art of agile project management. This comprehensive book on project management provides a clear and practical guide to implementing agile methodologies in your projects. Layton breaks down complex concepts into easy-to-understand language, making it accessible for beginners and experienced professionals alike. The book covers everything from the basics of agile project management to advanced techniques, providing valuable insights and tips for success.

With real-world examples and case studies, Agile Project Management For Dummies offers a hands-on approach to learning agile project management, making it an invaluable resource for anyone looking to improve their project management skills. Whether you’re a project manager, team leader, or simply interested in learning more about agile methodologies, this book about project management will help you navigate the world of agile project management with confidence.

The Project Management Book: How to Manage Your Projects Successfully

by Richard Newton

The Project Management Book: How to Manage Your Projects Successfully by Richard Newton is a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to enhance their project management skills. This book about project management provides practical insights, tips, and techniques for effectively managing projects from start to finish. Richard Newton, an experienced project manager, shares his expertise and knowledge, making this book on project management an invaluable resource for both beginners and seasoned professionals.

Readers can expect to learn about project planning, risk management, stakeholder engagement, and effective communication strategies. The book also covers topics such as budgeting, scheduling, and team management, providing a well-rounded approach to project management. The author’s engaging writing style and real-world examples make this project management book an engaging and informative read.

Whether you are a project manager, team leader, or simply interested in improving your project management skills, The Project Management Book is a must-read for anyone looking to successfully navigate the complexities of project management.

Project Management for the Unofficial Project Manager: A FranklinCovey Title

by Kory Kogon, Suzette Blakemore, and James Wood

The Unofficial Project Manager is a comprehensive book on project management that provides practical tools and strategies for individuals who find themselves managing projects without the formal title or training of a project manager. Written by Kory Kogon, Suzette Blakemore, and James Wood, this book offers valuable insights for anyone who is responsible for overseeing projects within their organization.

The authors draw from their extensive experience in project management to provide a clear roadmap for successfully managing projects, from defining objectives and creating a project plan to executing tasks and delivering results. The book emphasizes the importance of effective communication, team collaboration, and leveraging resources to achieve project success.

Readers will find actionable advice, real-world examples, and practical tips for navigating the complexities of project management. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the role, this project management book is a valuable resource for honing your skills and delivering exceptional results in your project management endeavors.

The Lazy Project Manager: How to Be Twice as Productive and Still Leave the Office Early

by Peter Taylor

The Lazy Project Manager: How to Be Twice as Productive and Still Leave the Office Early by Peter Taylor is a refreshing take on project management. This book on project management challenges the traditional notion of working harder and longer hours to achieve success. Instead, Taylor advocates for a more strategic and efficient approach to project management, allowing professionals to achieve better results in less time.

Through insightful and practical advice, Taylor shares his proven techniques for maximizing productivity and achieving work-life balance. He emphasizes the importance of prioritization, delegation, and effective communication in order to streamline processes and deliver successful outcomes.

Readers will learn how to apply Taylor’s ‘lazy’ project management techniques to their own work, enabling them to work smarter, not harder. Whether you’re a seasoned project manager or new to the field, this book about project management offers valuable insights and actionable strategies for improving your productivity and achieving your professional goals.

Final Thoughts on Best Project Management Books

Project Management is a crucial skill in today’s fast-paced business world, and there are countless books available to help professionals hone their abilities. The 20 best books about project management listed in this article cover a wide range of topics, from traditional methodologies to cutting-edge approaches. Whether you’re a seasoned project manager or just starting out in the field, these books offer valuable insights and practical advice to help you succeed in your projects. Happy reading!

Which book about Project Management is best?

The best book on Project Management can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

  1. The Fast Forward MBA in Project Management by Eric Verzuh,
  2. A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide) by Project Management Institute,
  3. Project Management Absolute Beginner’s Guide by Greg Horine.

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about Project Management?

For those looking to learn about Project Management, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

  1. The Fast Forward MBA in Project Management by Eric Verzuh,
  2. A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide) by Project Management Institute,
  3. Project Management Absolute Beginner’s Guide by Greg Horine,
  4. The Project Management Tool Kit: 100 Tips and Techniques for Getting the Job Done Right by Tom Kendrick,
  5. Project Management for Dummies by Stanley E. Portny,
  6. Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling by Harold Kerzner,
  7. The Project Manager’s Guide to Mastering Agile: Principles and Practices for an Adaptive Approach by Charles G. Cobb,
  8. The Project Manager’s Guide to Health Information Technology Implementation by Susan M. Houston,
  9. Project Management: A Managerial Approach by Jack R. Meredith and Samuel J. Mantel Jr.,
  10. The Mythical Man-Month: Essays on Software Engineering by Frederick P. Brooks Jr.

These books offer a range of perspectives on Project Management, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books about Project Management?

The best books about Project Management are:

  • The Fast Forward MBA in Project Management by Eric Verzuh,
  • A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide) by Project Management Institute,
  • The Art of Project Management by Scott Berkun,
  • A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide) by Project Management Institute,
  • The Project Manager’s Guide to Health Information Technology Implementation by Susan M. Houston,
  • Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling by Harold Kerzner.

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Project Management are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.

What are the best Project Management books of all time?

Choosing the best Project Management books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include

  • The Fast Forward MBA in Project Management by Eric Verzuh,
  • A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide) by Project Management Institute,
  • Project Management for Dummies by Stanley E. Portny,
  • The Project Manager’s Guide to Health Information Technology Implementation by Susan M. Houston,
  • and The Art of Project Management by Scott Berkun.
  • Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Project Management and continues to be influential today.