Project Cycle Management (PCM) is the process of effectively planning and managing projects, programmes and organizations. It is used widely in the development and humanitarian sectors. Projects sometimes fail because they are badly planned and do not take into account some important factors, particularly the needs and views of stakeholders. PCM ensures that all aspects of projects are considered carefully especially at the formulation stage. A central value of the PCM method is that aspects of the project are reconsidered throughout the project cycle to ensure that any changes which have occurred are included in the project design. As a result, projects are more likely to be successful and sustainable.

PCM involves a set of planning tools which feed into the logical framework (commonly known as a log frame). The log frame is a matrix which gives a snapshot of the key elements of the project. Some donors now expect log frames to be submitted alongside project proposals. Log frames can seem quite complex to many people. Most organizations find it difficult to fundraise for their projects. This training will therefore serve to demonstrate the process of developing log frames and theories of change in order to increase the ability of development and humanitarian organizations to access such funding. The training will also furnish trainees with practical project management skills in all the key phases of a project.

By the end of the training, trainees will be able to understand how to manage the activities of a project throughout the identification, formulation, planning and implementation cycle.

Who should attend this training?

Programme staff of UN, NGOs and government agencies including project managers, officers and assistants.

What are the key aspects of the training?

• Introduction to Project Cycle Management (PCM);
• Key components of a project;
• Significant steps in project planning (needs assessment, problem analysis, objective setting and stakeholder analysis);
• The logical framework approach (LFA);
• Theory of change (ToC);
• Project Monitoring and Evaluation plan;
• Project Implementation plan;
• Project resource plan and budgeting;
• Human resource management in development and emergency projects;
• Sustainability mechanisms for development projects.

What are the main training objectives?

The following objectives are planned to be achieved by the end of the training:

• To equip trainees with knowledge, skills and practices on project cycle management including programming, identification, formulation, financing, implementation, monitoring and evaluation;
• To introduce trainees to project management tools such as the Logical Framework Approach (LFA) as well as participatory approaches commonly used in projects;
• To strengthen participants competency in effective project management.

What learning approach and language will be used in the training?

The training delivery method includes recorded online lectures, PowerPoint presentations, articles, videos, quizzes and assessments.

Training Language

The entire training will be facilitated in English.

When is the training period?

This is a self-paced course which you can enroll and complete at your own time. With an average of 15 to 20hours total time input.