Independent consultant Berkum begins this readable how-to guide to project management with a brief history of the subject, and an explanation of why the subject is important. The book is then divided into three sections, with the headings of plans, skills, and management. The section on planning discusses schedules, figuring out what to do, ideas, and what to do with ideas. The next section addresses skills such as writing specifications, making good decisions, communication, how not to annoy people, and what to do when things go wrong. The final section on management looks at issues of trust, how to make things happen, strategies, and power and politics. Includes an annotated bibliography. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR