What is the Difference Between Project Management and General Management?

The main difference between project management and general management lies in their focus and scope. Here are the key differences between the two:

1. Focus: Project management is centered on planning, organizing, and executing specific short-term projects to achieve specific goals and objectives. In contrast, general management is the broad responsibility of overseeing and coordinating the overall operations of a business to achieve its long-term goals and success.
2. Duration: Project management is a temporary process with a specific start and end date. On the other hand, general management is a continuous process that involves managing the ongoing functions and operations of the organization.
3. Scope: Project management focuses on project-oriented processes and methodologies, with decisions made to meet project objectives. General management, however, involves strategic decision-making and planning processes, with decisions made to meet overall organizational goals.
4. Responsibilities: Project managers are responsible for coordinating resources, managing timelines and budgets, and ensuring that the project meets its objectives. General managers have a wider scope of responsibility, overseeing various departments and making decisions that impact the overall direction and success of the organization.
5. Skills: Project managers need leadership, communication, organization, risk management, and problem-solving skills. General managers require strong leadership, communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, as well as strategy development, conflict management, and team-building skills.

In summary, project management is focused on the successful completion of specific projects, while general management is concerned with the overall direction and success of the organization. The two roles have distinct responsibilities, timeframes, and skillsets, with project management being more focused on short-term goals and general management having a broader, long-term focus.

Comparative Table: Project Management vs General Management

Here is a table comparing the differences between project management and general management:

In summary, project management is focused on planning, executing, and closing specific, temporary projects, while general management is responsible for overseeing and coordinating the overall activities and processes of an organization to ensure coordination and optimum utilization of resources.