ABSTRACT
Project management involves marshalling resources. This chapter examines some "Business 101" issues that must be addressed to carry out the human side of project management effectively. One basic premise of project management is identifying the full body of participants in any project. Stakeholders in the project are any individuals that the project will affect either positively or negatively. Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is most notable for identifying the various levels of human needs, ranging from physiological needs to needs for self-actualization. Maslow theorized that it was necessary to meet the needs at one level before the next level can be achieved. In different organizations, different types of needs must be addressed. For example, in a dangerous mining environment, the primary needs that the project manager must undertake may be those of safety. In an organization where individuals are consistently respected and appreciated for their work, the participants may be able to focus on their abilities to self-actualize.
