What Is IT Project Management?

Information technology (IT) refers to the computer systems, networks, hardware, and software that allow for the transfer and processing of data—and it is the lifeblood of corporate day-to-day operations ranging from communicating to budgeting. 

The many projects that keep this dynamic aspect of business up to date and safe are valuable, but they also can be complex and costly. That’s why a professional with expertise in IT project management is such an important asset to organizations.

IT project managers plan and lead the efforts of individuals and teams who complete the tasks associated with maintaining information technology. An advanced degree focused on this work, such as an executive master’s degree in IT project management, can prepare IT professionals for leadership roles in the field.

IT Project Management: Definition

IT project management provides oversight for developing or updating IT-driven products and processes. Some examples of the types of work that IT project management guides include the following:

• Software development and implementation, such as creating an app for a company’s customers to use
• IT infrastructure upgrades, such as moving corporate servers to the cloud
• Cybersecurity updates, such as testing IT systems for security vulnerabilities and correcting issues

IT professionals like developers or security specialists might be the professionals responsible for the tasks required to complete a project, but it’s the knowledge and skills of project management that help keep their work moving forward on time and on budget. 

5 Phases of Project Management

Five phases of work comprise IT project management, affecting every stage of a project, from planning to assessment. The following are the IT project management phases:

1. Initiation: Determining the need for the project and establishing goals
2. Planning: Developing a project roadmap for following the budget and completing tasks
3. Execution: Determining deliverables and assigning project responsibilities
4. Monitoring and adjustment: Tracking team progress and making any necessary changes to project plans
5. Closure: Completing the project and assessing its outcomes

What Is an IT Project Manager?

IT project managers perform the duties associated with each of the phases of project management. Among the responsibilities of individuals in this role are the following:

• Establishing project goals
• Setting work timelines and milestones
• Monitoring the project budget
• Establishing project teams
• Keeping project teams and stakeholders abreast of plans and progress
• Assessing team members’ work
• Ensuring on-time project completion

The initiation phase, for example, might involve meeting with senior executives to identify the need for new products or services and discussing how an IT project could address that need. In monitoring and adjustment, IT project managers work primarily with the IT professionals carrying out project tasks. Closure might include all employees and corporate leaders, who weigh in on the effectiveness of work.

Where Do IT Project Managers Work?

People in this profession may be employed by IT organizations, or they may oversee the work of IT departments in companies in any of a variety of other industries—from healthcare to manufacturing—whose operations require IT equipment and operations to function. IT project managers may also work as contractors who assist a variety of organizations.

How to Become an IT Project Manager

The path to becoming an IT project management professional focuses on education, experience, and—in some cases—certification. The following are some steps to take to pursue a leadership role in IT project management.

1. Pursue Education in IT Project Management

Roles in IT project management typically require at least a bachelor’s degree. Advanced degrees can strengthen IT professionals’ expertise, helping them qualify for higher-level roles in project management.

Pursuing education in IT project management can help build knowledge and skills in both information technology and project management. An advanced degree in IT project management can help IT professionals prepare for leadership roles by strengthening the following abilities:

• Needs assessment
• Team coordination
• Effective communication
• Problem-solving

2. Gain Real-World Experience

Entry-level IT jobs can provide a solid foundation for pursuing progressively advanced roles, including those in IT project management. Many IT project management degree programs, including those at the postgraduate level, offer opportunities to gain on-the-job experience through internships that allow students to put their newly acquired knowledge and skills to work.

3. Seek IT Project Management Certification

While not always a requirement, IT project management certification can help job candidates stand out among other applicants. Certification, available from a variety of organizations, can help those seeking IT project management positions to further develop their skills and show their commitment to the profession. A common certification for IT project managers is Project Management Professional (PMP), which entails experience, education, and exam requirements.

IT Project Manager Salary and Job Outlook

Salary potential and job growth projections are strong for IT project management professionals. In both pay and demand, this field outpaces the average for all careers—thanks, in large part, to the increasing complexity of IT and the work it requires.

What Is the Salary for IT Project Managers?

For specialists in technical services project management, the BLS reports that the median annual salary in May 2023 was $103,610. In comparison, the median annual salary for all professions the BLS tracks was $48,060.

Leadership roles in IT project management can command higher salaries, with the top 10% of salaries for senior project managers reaching around $142,000 or more in March 2025, according to Payscale.

What Is the Job Outlook for IT Project Managers?

The BLS projects that jobs in project management will grow by 7% between 2023 and 2033. Projected growth for all jobs during that period, in comparison, is 4%.

The demand for IT products and processes likely will continue to grow, according to the BLS, even as IT constantly changes. Additionally, recent increases in remote work have led companies to take on projects to bolster their data security.

Build Your IT Career in an In-Demand Field

If you’re ready to pursue leadership roles in a growing IT sector with strong salary potential, explore the New England College Executive Master of Science (MS) in IT Project Management program. 

Formatted to accommodate the demands of working professionals with a master’s degree or work experience and an understanding of IT systems and processes, the program features both distance learning and weekend residency sessions. Students gain valuable hands-on experience through internships and further test their IT project management skills in a capstone project.

Discover how New England College’s Executive MS in IT Project Management can help you elevate your IT career.

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