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Project Manager

A Project Manager is responsible for overseeing the development and successful execution of a project from start to finish. They act as a bridge between developers and senior management. Their primary role is to ensure that the project is delivered on time, within budget and meets the desired quality standards.

 

A Project Manager is involved in every phase of the game development process, from initial concept design and planning to production, testing and release. They work closely with different teams, such as Game Designers, Artists, Programmers and QA Testers, to coordinate tasks, set milestones and track progress. They are skilled in resource management, budget allocation and resolving conflicts or bottlenecks that may arise during game development. Additionally, they communicate project updates, risks and milestones to senior management, ensuring everyone is aligned and informed throughout the project lifecycle. They possess strong leadership and organizational skills, a detailed understanding of the game development process and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.

Tools

Microsoft Project

JIRA

Trello

Asana

Hansoft

Monday.com

Basecamp

Slack

Google Drive

COLLABORATION WITH OTHER TEAMS:

A Project Manager works closely with various other positions in the gaming industry. Collaboration with Game Designers is key. A Project Manager works with them to understand the creative vision, set project goals and ensure that the development team’s work is aligned with the game design. They provide feedback on feasibility, scope and resource allocation, while also coordinating design iterations and incorporating design changes into the project plan.

 

Another important cooperation is with the Programming team. A Project Manager works together with them to define tasks, allocate resources and set deadlines. They facilitate communication, resolve conflicts and support the team when they face challenges. In addition, a Project Manager collaborates with QA Testers to ensure that comprehensive test plans are executed and that feedback is incorporated into the development process. By cultivating strong relationships with these positions, a Project Manager ensures that everyone is working towards a shared vision, maintaining productivity and delivering a high-quality game within defined constraints.

Skills

Depending on seniority, this position is expected to be able to master, do and deliver the following:

Hard skills

  • Project management
    • Creates project plans, sets realistic timelines, defines milestones and effectively manages resources.
  • Risk management
    • Analyzes and assesses risks during the life cycle of the project, creates contingency plans and implements risk reduction measures.
  • Knowledge of game development
    • Knows the principles of game design, programming languages, and pipeline for art and animation.

Soft skills

  • Communication
    • Conveys information, actively listens to team members, enables open and transparent communication channels, articulates project goals and expectations.
  • Leadership
    • Inspires and motivates the development team, guides them toward project goals, provides direction, fosters a positive and productive work environment.
  • Adaptability
    • Adjusts project plans and strategies as needed, takes into account unpredictable circumstances or changing priorities, manages deadlines effectively.

Seniority

Depending on seniority, this position is expected to be able to master, do and deliver the following:

Junior

  • Contributes to the project planning process, defines project scope, goals and results, helps create project schedules and milestones.
  • Assigns tasks, monitors progress and ensures deadlines are met, possesses good organizational skills to maintain project documentation.
  • Facilitates communication channels, ensures everyone is aligned and informed, documents discussions and decisions and helps resolve communication issues.
  • Identifies potential risks and helps develop risk mitigation strategies, contributes to risk registers and suggests measures to minimize or eliminate risks.

Medior

  • Independently manages small and medium-sized projects, oversees the entire project life cycle, manages resources, sets realistic deadlines and effectively coordinates tasks.
  • Engages with stakeholders, understands their needs and expectations, informs them of project news and progress.
  • Is an expert in risk assessment and mitigation, monitors and manages risks throughout the project, adjusts plans as needed to ensure project success.
  • Mentors juniors, guides them, provides support and feedback, helps in their professional development, offers insights and encourages the development of their skills.

Senior

  • Excels in strategic planning and project portfolio management, can align project goals with the organization’s general strategic goals.
  • Effectively distributes resources, manages project budgets, optimizes the use of resources, has experience in negotiating contracts, monitors project costs.
  • Inspires and motivates teams, fosters a collaborative and high-performance culture, provides guidance and mentorship to others and identifies training needs.
  • Engages with stakeholders and builds relationships with them, manages expectations, influences decision-making and effectively communicates project news.
PROJECT MANAGER // GAME PRODUCTION //
PROJECT MANAGER // GAME PRODUCTION //

EDUCATION:

If you are interested in a career in production within the gaming industry, consider earning a degree or taking a course in game development, project management, or business administration with a focus on the entertainment or media industry. Programs covering project management methodologies, video game production pipelines, as well as agile development practices and project budgeting will be of particular value to you. An understanding of the technical aspects of game development, including game engines, game art and design processes, and software development cycles, will provide you with a good foundation for overseeing game production.

 

In addition to formal education, gaining hands-on experience through an internship or entry-level position in video game development or project management can be critical to your preparation for a role in production. Participate in projects to gain insight into the challenges and workflows that are part of game creation. Developing organizational skills, problem-solving abilities and effective communication are essential for success in production roles. Networking with industry professionals, attending events and staying informed about trends and technologies will further improve your prospects for starting a career in this field.

Resources

Books

  • “The Lean Startup” – Eric Ries
  • “Scrum: The Art of Doing Twice the Work in Half the Time” – Jeff Sutherland
  • “Project Management for the Unofficial Project Manager” – Kory Kogon, Suzette Blakemore, James Wood
  • “Agile Game Development with Scrum” – Clinton Keith
  • “The Art of Agile Development” – James Shore, Shane Warden

Individuals

  • Mike Acton (@mike_acton)
  • Kellee Santiago (@KelleeSan)
  • Clinton Keith (@ClintonKeith)
  • Lual Mayen (@LualMayen)
  • Gabe Newell (@gaben)

What does the interview for this position look like?​

News

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PROJECT MANAGER // GAME PRODUCTION //
PROJECT MANAGER // GAME PRODUCTION //