This is my first post on the Sitepoint forums. So hi and nice to meet you! I’m a student currently studying Interactive Multimedia and Web Design in college and need some advice/direction as to pursuing a career in the industry.
Although right now I am learning all about web and graphic design (HTML, XHTML, CSS, Javascript, Flash and all Adobe CS5 Programs), I have realized that my interest in the web primarily lies in the MANAGEMENT of web projects. For example, I like to be involved in creative planning and web strategy, and overseeing a project from start to finish, but am not necessarily interested in sitting for hours and hours coding from the ground up or drawing vectors in illustrator.
Is there still a spot/position in the web design/multimedia industry for me? Do small to medium sized design firms hire people just to “manage and oversee” projects? If so, what is such a position called, and how to I begin on my path to attaining such a position?
Any advice would be so helpful - I feel a little lost and confused. Thanks so much in advance everyone =)
Project Management is a critical part of any organization as is business management & oversight but just like coding or design, it requires experience, tools and skills.
If you’re looking to formally manage projects (rather than say concepting or driving the business behind a project) you should get educated on MS Project, and the methodologies behind formal project management, even PMP certification.
If you’re not looking to be a formal PM but instead want to drive the business insights look at marketing roles. It’s less a skillset and more an experience field where you’ll need to build up a resume of successfully launching projects to grow in your vision over them.
Unfortunately, there is a place for you… Many company will hire you if you have MBA or PMP cert or 5+ years of managing at some place else. I know this is personal opinion and it really doesn’t apply but… I do not respect managers who was not initially a developer. I want to work w/ a Manager who has been there and done that. From my experience, it’s much easier to communicate w/ a Manager who is very technical vs Manager who just says “Yes” to all upper managements and expect team members do their magic… I really hope that you at least be a developer for 5 years before jumping into management.
