Automation and Process Control projects are challenging and can often invoke fear for the newly appointed Automation Project Manager (APM) or Project Engineer in charge.
In addition to all the usual challenges of any project, this particular type of project is often even more complex. This is the result of a variety of reasons including: integration of multiple engineering disciplines (software, computer systems, networks, and instrumentation), high dependency on User Requirements of disciplines outside of automation, integration of requirements from many areas (business, engineering, safety, environmental), delays in other areas of the project that propagate over into the automation area, new technology or technology constraints, and many more.
Also, Automation is often viewed as a black box by the non-automation community, which tends to isolate these activities and people from the broader project structures and support. And, Automation projects by the very nature of what you are trying to build are extremely complex. They entail building an embedded intelligence into an integrated set of computer and human systems, in many cases to run a manufacturing process that has never been done.
The ISA Automation Project Management & Delivery Division (APMD) is recognizing this challenge and provides the APM’s with proposed methods, tools and networking opportunities in support of their professional journey.
Leadership and Volunteers
Our Leadership board provides leadership to promote the division and increase the contribution to our membership. If you have interest in joining as a volunteer, please reach out to our Director John Whitten to discuss how you can get more involved with the division.
Connect Live
Our division will be hosting Connect Live's as a chance for our members to network and discuss virtually some of the happenings in Automation Project Management
Library and Resources
Our Library section will host some useful content and resources for our Division members. Stay Tuned for future content to be added to the library. If you know of content that you would like to see added, please let us know.
OnPoint Recorded Webinars
Our division also wants to make available OnPoint recorded webinars to help you learn more about Project Management. You can access the latest recordings here from this link
Guidelines
Our division has a guidelines team that is preparing detailed guidance on automation project management. Please contact Andre Michel or Simon Lucchini if you are interested in supporting this effort.
Training in Automation Project Management
Our division in working with the ISA Training division are promoting the need for Automation professionals to learn more about project management as well as to encourage Project Management Professionals to learn more about project management.
The new training program is available and more information is available at this Link to Automation Project Management Certificate Program
Check out this interview of Steve Mustard with Hunter Vegas discussing this course. Link to Interview