The Best Project Management Books to Read in 2024
There are many project managers out there. Too many, maybe? Especially in crisis times, when the demand for project managers is lower, the question arises: How to stand out from the project managers’ crowd to keep a steady job or land a new one?
There is a straightforward answer to this: Expand your project management knowledge. And for that, project management books work best (next to project management courses!). They let you get a sneak peek of the ideas, models, and methods used by most successful project managers, and usually only just for 10-30 dollars. Also, they provide step-by-step guidelines on how to manage projects in the most efficient way.
What are the best project management books? Take a look at my curated list of books that cover a vast array of project management topics.
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Free eBook: The Project Manager’s Handbook on Time Tracking
What’s inside: This handbook from Timeular is your ultimate guide to mastering time tracking in project management. It covers essential aspects of like project planning, progress monitoring, project schedule adherence, and effective time management. You’ll explore different time tracking methods, software selection tips, and strategies for motivating teams to track time diligently.
Why it’s worth reading it: Dive into this handbook to discover how time tracking can ensure your projects are delivered on time, maintain team productivity, and accurately measure project success. Whether you’re a seasoned project manager or new to the role, these insights will help you streamline your workflow and optimize project outcomes.
The author: Written by time tracking experts at Timeular, a leading provider of the top time tracking software.
Project Management Absolute Beginner’s Guide by Greg Horine
What’s inside: Greg Horine’s “Project Management Absolute Beginner’s Guide” dispels the myth that project managers are born, showing that anyone can excel in this role, regardless of prior experience. The guide offers practical insights into team dynamics, budget management, scheduling, and effective project tracking.
Why it’s worth reading it: This beginner’s guide provides a clear roadmap for mastering project management fundamentals. Whether you’re new to the field or transitioning into project management, you’ll learn essential techniques like traditional, agile, and hybrid methodologies to successfully lead projects from start to finish.
The author: Greg Horine, an experienced project management professional
Be Fast or Be Gone: Racing the Clock with Critical Chain Project Management by Andreas Scherer
What’s inside: “Be Fast or Be Gone: Racing the Clock with Critical Chain Project Management” by Andreas Scherer explores critical chain project management principles, focusing on optimizing resource allocation and project planning for enhanced efficiency.
Why it’s worth reading it: It’s one of the project management books that delve deep into critical chain project management, offering strategies to streamline processes and achieve better project outcomes through effective resource utilization.
The author: Andreas Scherer is a respected authority in project management, known for his expertise in critical chain methodologies and practical insights.
The Blueprint: 6 Practical Steps to Lift Your Leadership to New Heights by Douglas R. Conant
What’s inside: “The Blueprint: 6 Practical Steps to Lift Your Leadership to New Heights” by Douglas R. Conant is a transformative project management book that leads you through a self-reflection journey to enhance your work method and personal productivity. The book outlines six steps: Reach High – Envision; Dig Deep – Reflect; Lay the Groundwork – Study; Design – Plan; Build – Practice; and Reinforce – Improve.
Why it’s worth reading it: This book provides actionable steps to elevate your leadership skills and productivity. Through structured self-reflection and practical guidance, Conant empowers readers to cultivate effective leadership habits and achieve professional growth.
The author: Douglas R. Conant, known for his leadership expertise
Product-Led Growth: How to Build a Product That Sells Itself by Wes Bush
What’s inside: “Product-Led Growth: How to Build a Product That Sells Itself” by Wes Bush is an essential read for project managers aiming to enhance their products and services. The book focuses on optimizing value through strategic focus versus effort, aiming to acquire and retain clients efficiently and sustainably.
Why it’s worth reading it: This project management book offers insights into leveraging product-led growth strategies to improve customer acquisition and retention. By emphasizing product value and customer-centric approaches, Bush provides actionable tactics to drive sustainable business growth.
The author: Wes Bush is a recognized authority in product-led growth strategies
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Doing Agile Right: Transformation Without Chaos by Darrell Rigby, Sarah Elk and Steve Berez
What’s inside: “Doing Agile Right: Transformation Without Chaos” by Darrell Rigby, Sarah Elk, and Steve Berez explores the agile management method, detailing its benefits for projects and how agile teams operate to ensure high work quality.
Why it’s worth reading it: This project management book offers practical guidance on effectively implementing agile practices. Whether you’re new to agile or looking to optimize your approach, Rigby, Elk, and Berez provide actionable strategies to foster innovation, improve team collaboration, and enhance project outcomes.
The authors: Darrell Rigby, Sarah Elk, and Steve Berez
Driving Digital Strategy: A Guide to Reimagining Your Business by Sunil Gupta
What’s inside: “Driving Digital Strategy: A Guide to Reimagining Your Business” by Sunil Gupta offers practical insights into enhancing projects through digital strategies, covering business models, customer engagement, and organizational transformation.
Why it’s worth reading it: This book covers an array of actionable tools for leveraging digital strategies to drive project improvement and business growth, focusing on business model innovation and customer-centric approaches.
The author: Sunil Gupta is a leading expert in digital strategy and business transformation
Project Management for the Unofficial Project Manager by Kory Kogon, Suzette Blakemore and James Wood
What’s inside: “Project Management for the Unofficial Project Manager” by Kory Kogon, Suzette Blakemore, and James Wood is tailored for individuals managing projects informally, offering essential guidance and practical strategies for success.
Why it’s worth reading it: As one of the best project management books, this guide provides actionable insights and tips for mastering project management skills on the job, empowering readers to achieve successful project outcomes.
The authors: Kory Kogon, Suzette Blakemore, and James Wood
What the Heck Is EOS?: A Complete Guide for Employees in Companies Running on EOS by Gino Wickman
What’s inside: “What the Heck Is EOS?: A Complete Guide for Employees in Companies Running on EOS” by Gino Wickman introduces project managers to the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), detailing its principles, framework, and practical applications.
Why it’s worth reading it: This book provides essential insights into EOS, helping project managers leverage its principles to enhance performance and drive organizational success.
The author: Gino Wickman, a seasoned entrepreneur and business consultant
The ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth About Extraordinary Results by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan
What’s inside: “The ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth About Extraordinary Results” by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan offers a fresh perspective on achieving extraordinary results in project management. It challenges traditional approaches by highlighting the critical factors that contribute to success and addressing common distractions faced daily.
Why it’s worth reading it: This book provides project managers with practical insights to refocus on essential tasks and understand human nature’s impact on productivity. It encourages prioritizing interpersonal skills and simplifying decision-making processes to maximize project management effectiveness.
The authors: Gary Keller and Jay Papasan
Advanced Multi-Project Management: Achieving Outstanding Speed and Results with Predictability by Gerald I. Kendall and Kathleen M. Austin
What’s inside: “Advanced Multi-Project Management: Achieving Outstanding Speed and Results with Predictability” by Gerald I. Kendall and Kathleen M. Austin is one of the best project management books that, particularly for project managers handling multiple projects. It provides advanced strategies and techniques to refine project management skills effectively.
Why it’s worth reading it: This book offers invaluable insights into multi-project management, focusing on achieving consistent and efficient results. Kendall and Austin’s expertise provides practical solutions to enhance project management performance in complex environments.
The authors: Gerald I. Kendall and Kathleen M. Austin
Making Things Happen: Mastering Project Management by Scott Berkun
What’s inside: “Making Things Happen: Mastering Project Management” by Scott Berkun introduces a transformative approach to project management, fostering new perspectives to enhance work methods and redefine project management practices. Berkun emphasizes the development of essential skills such as leadership, creativity, meeting deadlines, and resilience in handling setbacks.
Why it’s worth reading it: This go-to book offers actionable insights to improve project management effectiveness through innovative thinking and practical strategies. Berkun’s emphasis on leadership and creative problem-solving equips project managers with the tools to navigate challenges and achieve exceptional project results.
The author: Scott Berkun, renowned for his unconventional approach to project management
Agile Project Management with Scrum by Ken Schwaber
What’s inside: “Agile Project Management with Scrum” by Ken Schwaber explores the transformative impact of Scrum in agile through compelling case studies. The book delves into the practical adoption of agile methodologies, addressing both the benefits and challenges of implementing Scrum. It also covers essential topics such as coaching agile teams to enhance project performance.
Why it’s worth reading it: Schwaber’s book covers invaluable insights into Scrum, empowering project managers to optimize project workflows and adapt agile practices effectively. By embracing Scrum principles, project teams can achieve greater flexibility and efficiency in delivering project outcomes.
The author: Ken Schwaber, a pioneer in agile project management
Epiphanized: A Novel on Unifying Theory of Constraints, Lean, and Six Sigma, Second Edition by Bruce Nelson and Bob Sproull
What’s inside: “Epiphanized: A Novel on Unifying Theory of Constraints, Lean, and Six Sigma, Second Edition” by Bruce Nelson and Bob Sproull combines Theory of Constraints with Lean and Six Sigma, offering practical strategies to enhance project management effectiveness.
Why it’s worth reading it: It’s one of those project management books that integrates diverse methodologies to optimize project growth and efficiency. Nelson and Sproull provide actionable insights for professionals aiming to improve their project management process and achieve better project outcomes.
The authors: Bruce Nelson and Bob Sproull
The Lazy Project Manager: How to be twice as productive and still leave the office early by Peter Taylor
What’s inside: “The Lazy Project Manager: How to be twice as productive and still leave the office early” by Peter Taylor introduces unconventional project management strategies centered around the concept of focus. Taylor offers practical tips for achieving high productivity while maintaining work-life balance.
Why it’s worth reading it: This book challenges traditional project management norms, demonstrating how a ‘lazy’ approach can lead to enhanced project outcomes through strategic focus and mindset adjustments. It provides actionable advice for improving efficiency without sacrificing effectiveness.
The author: Peter Taylor
The Agile Mind-Set: Making Agile Processes Work by Gil Broza
What’s inside: “The Agile Mind-Set: Making Agile Processes Work” by Gil Broza provides actionable strategies for integrating Agile methodologies into diverse project environments. Broza tackles common implementation challenges and highlights Agile’s benefits for enhancing project efficiency.
Why it’s worth reading it: This book is essential for professionals aiming to adopt Agile practices effectively. Broza’s practical insights help you understand and apply Agile principles to improve project management across different sectors.
The author: Gil Broza is a renowned Agile expert
Project Management Case Studies by Harold Kerzner
What’s inside: “Project Management Case Studies” by Harold Kerzner features insightful case studies that offer a deep understanding of the Project Manager’s role within a company, specifically in the context of project management.
Why it’s worth reading it: The book also explores essential company indicators like risk management, crisis plans, and innovative techniques, providing valuable insights for professionals and stakeholders alike.
The author: Harold Kerzner
Read our blog and learn how to lead a team effectively.
Project Management for Non-Project Managers by Jack Ferraro
What’s inside: “Project Management for Non-Project Managers” by Jack Ferraro provides invaluable insights into project management essentials tailored for those outside the traditional project management role.
Why it’s worth reading it: Jack Ferraro’s goal is to impart life-changing knowledge for both current and aspiring project managers. His narrative offers a journey into effective management strategies, enhancing both soft and hard skills crucial for success.
The author: Jack Ferraro
A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide) by Project Management Institute
What’s inside: “A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide)” by Project Management Institute is a comprehensive manual that outlines standard practices in project management across various industries.
Why it’s worth reading it: It’s worth reading because it provides a structured framework of globally recognized best practices, endorsed by the Project Management Institute (PMI), a leading expert institution in project management. This book provides information on how to achieve high project success rates, stakeholder satisfaction, and workflow efficiency. Updated regularly, it reflects current industry trends, making it an essential resource for staying informed on the latest methodologies.
The author: Experts at Project Management Institute
Scrum: The Art of Doing Twice the Work in Half the Time by Jeff Sutherland
What’s inside: “Scrum: The Art of Doing Twice the Work in Half the Time” by Jeff Sutherland explores the revolutionary Scrum methodology and its profound impact on project management.
Why it’s worth reading it: Jeff Sutherland highlights the transformative nature of Scrum project management, likening its effect to magic in revolutionizing project methodologies. The book vividly illustrates how Scrum accelerates productivity and enhances the precision of management processes.
The author: Jeff Sutherland
Strategic Project Management Made Simple: Practical Tools for Leaders and Teams by Terry Schmidt
What’s inside: “Strategic Project Management Made Simple: Practical Tools for Leaders and Teams” by Terry Schmidt offers practical solutions for understanding and overcoming project failures.
Why it’s worth reading it: This project management book provides a fresh perspective on project management, advocating for the adoption of innovative methodologies over traditional approaches. The book aims to revitalize techniques for managers and teams worldwide, equipping them with tools to enhance project success.
The author: Terry Schmidt focuses on empowering leaders and teams with strategic project management tools, emphasizing practicality and effectiveness in achieving project goals.
Rescue the Problem Project: A Complete Guide to Identifying, Preventing, and Recovering from Project Failure by Todd Williams
What’s inside: “Rescue the Problem Project: A Complete Guide to Identifying, Preventing, and Recovering from Project Failure” by Todd Williams provides comprehensive strategies for identifying, preventing, and recovering from project failures.
Why it’s worth reading it: It introduces new techniques to enhance your work methodology, emphasizing proactive planning and continuous improvement. The book guides readers on improving progress tracking and making informed decisions based on results, ultimately aiming to improve risk management and enhance outcomes.
The author: Todd Williams
TIP: Read our blog if you want to how to measure a team’s productivity.
TIP: Read our blog if you want to how to measure a team’s productivity.
Project Management for Humans: Helping People Get Things Done by Brett Harned
What’s inside: “Project Management for Humans: Helping People Get Things Done” by Brett Harned focuses on integrating a Project Manager’s personality traits for effective project delivery.
Why it’s worth reading it: It emphasizes the importance of developing psychological and communication skills alongside project management methodologies. The book equips readers with strategies to enhance interpersonal relationships, presence, and readiness to tackle challenges, fostering success in project management.
The author: Brett Harned
Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity by Dave Allen
What’s inside: “Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity” by Dave Allen offers strategies for achieving productivity without stress.
Why it’s worth reading it: It provides a framework for effectively managing tasks and projects, emphasizing prioritization and stress-free productivity. The book teaches readers how to delegate, review, and plan tasks systematically, ensuring efficient project management while maintaining balance and relaxation.
The author: Dave Allen
Do you want to increase your productivity? Then you need to know our list of the best productivity books.
Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling by Harold Kerzner
What’s inside: “Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling” by Harold Kerzner is a comprehensive guide to enhancing planning, scheduling, and controlling skills in project management.
Why it’s worth reading it: It provides practical insights and methodologies crucial for Project Managers overseeing various projects. The project management book includes industry case studies that serve as valuable, real-world examples for developing effective project management strategies.
The author: Harold Kerzner
Guide to Project Management: Getting It Right and Achieving Lasting Benefit by Paul Roberts
What’s inside: “Guide to Project Management: Getting It Right and Achieving Lasting Benefit” by Paul Roberts focuses on mastering the art of organization for Project Managers.
Why it’s worth reading it: It provides strategies to navigate internal and external challenges that can derail projects, aiming for successful implementation and lasting benefits. The book emphasizes achieving project goals efficiently and effectively within organizational contexts.
The author: Paul Roberts
Brilliant Project Management: What the best Project Managers know, do and say by Stephen Barker and Rob Cole
What’s inside: “Brilliant Project Management: What the Best Project Managers Know, Do, and Say” by Stephen Barker and Rob Cole provides insights into effective project management strategies.
Why it’s worth reading it: It equips Project Managers with methods and techniques to minimize stress and ensure project success. The book covers innovative approaches to enhance project longevity and encourages sharing improved results with senior management, fostering professional growth and project accomplishment.
The authors: Stephen Barker and Rob Cole
Project Management JumpStart by Kim Heldman
What’s inside: “Project Management JumpStart” by Kim Heldman provides a comprehensive introduction to essential project management concepts.
Why it’s worth reading it: The book aims to equip you with the knowledge needed to become a top Project Manager. It includes practical examples, case studies, and new management methods designed to inspire and enhance your work quality.
The author: Kim Heldman
Project Management Lite: Just Enough to Get the Job Done…Nothing More by Juana Clark Craig
“Project Management Lite: Just Enough to Get the Job Done…Nothing More” by Juana Clark Craig provides a streamlined approach to essential project management concepts.
Why it’s worth reading it: The last of the project management books listed in this collection aims to teach you everything necessary to become an effective Project Manager without overwhelming you with unnecessary details. It includes practical examples, case studies, and efficient management methods that can inspire and enhance your work quality.
The author: Juana Clark Craig