Every project manager has a toolbox they pull from to successfully guide projects. Although I have only been with Taylor Studios for a short time, I have learned that project management for the design, build, and installation of exhibits is no different in this regard. Although the steps and resources may differ when building giant dog models compared to a house, the same tools are used to manage the process. Taking a peek inside the arsenal of skills project managers and coordinators use in this field gives our clients and visitors a taste of what it takes to manage the creation of exhibits that inspire.

1. Adaptability

The ability to adapt is one of the most important skills to possess when managing projects. Whether that be adapting to learn about a new method or material, or fielding changes to a project plan and thinking on your feet to find a solution or altered route. Whatever is thrown our way, project managers must find a way to adapt and move forward.

2.  Planning

Now, this may seem obvious, but a vital tool nonetheless! When we first start on a new project, we in the PMO spend the beginning organizing and thinking it through step by step. We work with our clients to bring out every detail they want included in their exhibit, make sure every member of our team is on the same page, account for budget and timing, and voila! You have yourself a bulletproof project plan! Which brings me to the next tool…

3. Managing Risk

Remember when I said “bulletproof plan”? Well, this is more complex than one may think! Every project is a change. When our exhibits are implemented, the space they take up has ultimately been altered. Every time a change is taking place, there is a certain amount of risk involved. What makes our planning so effective is that we take this risk into account from the very beginning. We think about all factors that may stray from the decided path, how to prevent this deviation, and a plan of action if prevention fails. Evaluating risk can be like predicting the future: not everything you anticipate may come to pass, but it’s always better to be prepared!

4. Managing resources

• Human Resources At Taylor Studios, our exhibits are able to come to life because of the work of our amazing team, and the strong collaboration skills we possess. This aspect of the company culture certainly makes the human resources portion of my job much simpler! We in the PMO also work closely with our wonderful clients, ensuring that their vision is brought to life. Since I have begun my journey with Taylor Studios, I have had the opportunity to work with some of our clients who are just as passionate about creating a space to teach and inspire as we are! Along with maintaining strong teams both internally and externally, we employ detailed documentation and open communication as the key to successful human resource management.

• Time and Financial Resources Of course, time and money are just as important to manage when it comes to exhibit design and production. The strongest skill project managers have to have when it comes to managing projects that finish on time and within budget is maintaining a strong understanding of limits. Every time money is spent or hours are requested, we have to be thinking back to how much there is to spend, and how much time we have. The process reminds me a bit of a kite: Our creative team is like the kite, up in the air creating a big, extraordinary show! The project management team is on the ground holding the string so that the show the kite is creating can be enjoyed by all.

While all project managers utilize the same toolbox, it’s exciting to see the tools used in different ways depending on the project. At Taylor Studios, no two projects are ever the same! The PMO has the opportunity to work with our amazing team, our awesome clients, and contribute to the creative culture by utilizing our set of skills to manage the creation of unique and inspiring exhibits.