What is Project Management and Why Should Every California Business Consider Hiring a Project Manager?

project management in California

What is Project Management?

The term project management refers to the planning and organization of business resources in order to move a certain duty, event, and specific task. Project management is regarded as the core of all the daily business operations. At one time or the other, you are going to carry out a business management project, and you need to be conversant with how a project management works.

There are five main stages of a project lifecycle. To start with, the initiation stage is the start of the project. This is the conception of an idea, and the idea is developed. A project charter guides the project on what is going to be achieved and how. The kick off meeting defines the goals of the project and the schedule.

The planning stage defines where you intend to carry out the project and break down the work into manageable chunks. In other words, it’s a road map for the work from the beginning to the conclusion. The Gantt Chart gives an example of breaking down the project from the overall picture to manageable tasks.

The heart of project management is in execution. It is an execution of the plan. There is monitoring and controlling of the work in order to meet the objectives in time. At this stage, you have to carry out tracking in order to ensure that you are on time in both the resources and the schedule. Closely connected to this is the need to control risks and manage the problems that arise in the course of running the project.

Lastly, it is important that a project is closed in an organized way. At this stage, the company makes an audit of the project, the mistakes made, and the points of improvement in the next project. It should be noted that projects offer a strong learning opportunity. Again, at this stage, the company evaluates the amount of resources it used and the time that was taken to carry out the project, and it compares it with the initial plans made.

There are several ways on how to manage a project. The business case is a justification that a project carried out is worth and carries a high rate of return on investment. Bear in mind that you cannot start a project without consulting with the stakeholders. Here, stakeholders are the people, or group of people, who are going to be affected by the project. For example, you may ask your loyal clients what they think about your expansion. You might be surprised to learn that they support your long-term plans.

Every project must exist within certain goals and objectives. For example, a business could be seeking to roll out an electronic method of handling data. In such a case, then, the goals and objectives are set out from the word go, and a timeline is given. Professionals in project management advise the business owners to avoid veering off from the initial goals and projects.

Another critical thing to consider is that the project must adhere to the authorities. Working within the confines of the law is going to ensure that you get licensing and certification. In addition to that, you are going to avoid going into conflict with the authorities in the future. The US has very strict business laws, and if you are to do business in the state. Breaking the law will limit you in future business and career opportunities.

Hiring a project manager

Why should every California business consider hiring a project manager?

California (the Golden State) is an ideal business destination for numerous business projects. The major conferences and trade shows are a testimony of the state as an ideal destination. The state is home to one of the largest tech companies in the world. The agricultural sector contributes an impressive contribution of the national agricultural activities.

California has a high purchasing power and this is good for your business. In addition to that, if you start a business in the state, you will have a big pool of talent to choose from. The fact that the state is big translates to better and more diverse business opportunities. If you decide to stay in California in the long-run, you will benefit from a good infrastructure, a favorable weather year-round, and a mix of cultures not just from the US, but from the world too.

When you plan on doing a business in California, you need to consider hiring a project manager. The good thing is that there are ample opportunities for hiring such a professional. With California Project Management, you are going to realize a stream of project management possibilities.

A project manager defines the scope of the project. Professionals know that trying to achieve everything in a short time is an act of futility. By defining the scope, the project manager is going to assess the time needed to achieve a certain objective and the cost of the project, at least an estimate of the cost.

Closely connected to this is the need to appreciate the role of the project manager in attaining the deliverables required. A deliverable could either be tangible or intangible. An example of a tangible deliverable is the development of a new computer. An example of an intangible deliverable is improving the computational efficiency of a company.

A project manager enhances team work and collaboration. Employees are assigned certain roles and responsibilities, and encouraged to work in co-ordination. In connection to this, some projects are going to warrant the input of multiple departments. In such a case, then, the project manager comes in handy in ensuring that different departments work together in harmony, and without over-lapping of duties.

The schedule of a business project is very important, and project managers ensure that this is enhanced. In some cases, the business could be vulnerable to harsh consequences because of missing the deadlines. Again, missing deadlines could come with a higher cost of running the project, both in terms of money, and in terms of time.

When you hire a project manager, you are going to realize that your project will be of high quality. It should be noted that some types of businesses must take quality assurance seriously in order to continue to legally operate in the market. For example, professionals working in the health and construction businesses must operate with high quality standards in order to meet the requirements of the authorities. Similarly, companies which are working in the health industry should understand that the government cannot compromise on the health of its people, and therefore, the business has to set a higher bar in terms of quality.

Clients do mind about the quality of the services that they receive. If the clients are not satisfied, they are going to report a low satisfaction score, which in turn, will lead to fewer chances of referrals as well as fewer business opportunities. Businesses should appreciate that branding comes through years of providing high quality products and services. The business of the future is the business which offers a high product or service today.

Project managers can help you develop quality controls. These are processes which are aimed at making an improvement to the running of the business, and as far as possible, reach the level of perfection. For example, a project manager could help in creating various benchmarks that are going to be used in order to make quality improvement. Such benchmarks can be used to establish a culture of setting standards.

Therefore, if you are to meet a high level of standards, you cannot do this alone. You need to seek the intervention of a project manager who will play an important role in ensuring that a California project is going to stand out in terms of quality.

Businesses should make an informed decision on the style of leadership that they choose to pursue. California project management will look at the structure of your business, and inform you on the best leadership style. The following are three main types of leadership with their characteristics:

Scrum: tasks are completed within a certain timeframe, emphasize on clarity, and prefer stable teams that do not experience changes. However, in scrum, a failure in one thing could lead to a slowing down of the entire process

Kanban: easily customized, visible, ambiguous, and prefers multiple teams that have a variation in priorities.

Agile: responsive to change, prefers continuous change, and is flexible

Whereas the project managers do not concentrate on seeking funding, you can ask such a professional on the best way of seeking funding if you are stuck. Bear in mind that such professionals have worked in many other projects, and they can be of great help in helping you solve problems that come along the way.

Closely connected to this is the need to employ a lean model of operations in order to save on resources. There are ample opportunities of saving resources, and project managers are aware of them.

The project manager will help you in the aesthetics of the project as well as seeking the extras. For example, if you are in the construction industry, you may desire to have a unique architecture which has never been seen in California. Similarly, your project manager could help you look unique. For example, if you are having an art shop, you may depict a hand-woven bag which is made from recycled materials. Thereby, you will be show-casing a green product, and this will be appealing to the business.

best ways to hire a project manager

How to Hire a Project Manager

California has immense opportunities to hire a project manager; you can hire from the state or outside the state. An ideal project manager should, at the minimum, have a bachelor in management (a master’s degree is an added advantage). A basic degree exposes an individual to critical skills such as human resources and management skills. In addition to that, if one has a bachelor, there is all the likelihood that one has taken an internship, and this is very important for skills development.

As far as possible, choose a project manager who is experienced. Green project managers can also give good results, but they may not have the necessary experience in solving complex problems.

When to Hire a Project Manager

Most of the businesses hire a project manager when it is too late. By then, the company has already suffered for long, and has experienced several setbacks. Such companies see hiring a project manager as an expensive and risky endeavor, only to realize that they should have hired one. When you realize your business has surpassed ten employees, you can as well start looking for a project manager.

The Cost of Hiring a Project Manager

If you hire a project manager, you need to understand a typical project manager salary. This would come to $ 66 k per year. Bear in mind that you may have to pay bonuses as a form of motivation. Other ways of paying for your project include the following:

Flat rate: This is paid upon the completion of the project

Percentage: This is calculated as a percentage of the project

Hourly: Depending with experience, a project manager will ask for $ 45 to $ 60 an hour.

If you are not able to hire an in-house project manager, you can opt for a freelance project manager. The cost of a freelance project manager is lower, and such a person is not influenced by the culture and politics of the company. In addition to that, you can easily hire or fire the professional. However, if you are considering having a long-term commitment to a project manager, a freelance one is not going to have a long-term vision.

Conclusion

A project manager will come at a cost, but he or she will bring you a lot of benefits. What is important is to have your project executed successfully, in a timely manner, and with a reasonable cost. Overall, California project management will play a critical role in ensuring that you realize optimal project outcomes.

Great Architecture of Sacramento

Architecture of Sacramento 
38.5816° N, 121.4944° W

Sacramento was an entirely different place back in the mid-19th Century. It was at the mercy of consistent flooding. Eventually, the authorities took steps to elevate the city above the floodplain. The structures that were constructed in the subsequent years were designed to withstand challenges of this sort, which is why they are still standing in the 21st Century.

But they are not the only architectural marvels in the city. Sacramento’s modern buildings are just as fascinating as their ancient landmarks, which is why the city attracts so many architecture enthusiasts. Sacramento has something for everyone. The city’s most impressive architectural offerings include:

The Tower Bridge in Sacramento
The Tower Bridge

1). Tower Bridge

The Tower Bridge was built by the Department of Public Works in 1935 and it was such an impressive undertaking for its time that it won a national award in 1936. The American Institute of Steel Construction recognized it as one of the most beautiful bridges of the year.

The Tower Bridge is still standing today. Originally silver, it is now coated with gold. This signifies Sacramento’s history with the Gold Rush. The bridge is one of Sacramento’s most iconic sites.

Governor's Mansion State Historic Park
Governor’s Mansion State Historic Park

2). Governor’s Mansion State Historic Park

Despite its name, this property does not house the governor of California; though it was once the official home of the individuals that held that position. The fact that it does not have a governor living in it makes the property the only governor’s mansion of its kind in the US.

Recognized by the National Register of Historic Places for its historic importance, the mansion is quite impressive. Built for Albert Gallatin in 1877, the State of California gained ownership of the property in 1903.

Boasting 30 rooms, a visit to the mansion will reveal that it still contains the furnishings of former governors. Anyone passionate about architecture will also appreciate the fact that it has been renovated on numerous occasions with the aim of making repairs and updating some elements.

The Ziggurat in Sacramento
The Ziggurat

3). Ziggurat

As far as impressive works of architecture in Sacramento are concerned, the ziggurat is one of the most extraordinary. As some might have guessed, Edwin Kado based his designs on Mesopotamia’s ziggurats.

Completed in 1997, it was initially meant to house The Money Store. Today, you will find the Department of General Services within its confines. But no one cares about the offices that it houses. The structure’s exterior is its most impressive offering. The shape, which is reminiscent of a pyramid, is like nothing else in the city.

Sacramento Masonic Temple
Sacramento Masonic Temple

4). Masonic Temple

The Masonic temple became a national historic place in 2001. It has been traced back to 1913. The temple pays homage to the architecture of that time which is why it became a historic place in 2001. It has a medieval-style that immediately captures the eye. The rooms are large and magnificent. There are stained glass windows, cast bronze rails, and beautiful oak doors.

California State Capital
California State Capital

5). State Capitol

People that have only heard of California’s capitol building are unlikely to appreciate the significance of the structure. The capitol building was completed in 1874. It has spent a century acting as California’s seat of power, which is why it is so important, not only among architecture students but historians.

The building, with its regal dome, stands out. The mosaic tile floors and stained glass imagery are popular among visitors.

Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament
Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament

6). Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament

This cathedral was the work of Patrick Manogue. After becoming the city’s first Bishop in 1886, he decided that he wanted to construct a structure inspired by European projects like L’Eglise de la Sainte-Trinitein Paris.

Currently the mother church and seat of the ordinary bishop of the Sacramento Diocese, the cathedral was a marvel in its day, eclipsing all other cathedrals West of the Mississippi River.

Even though it has undergone numerous repairs and changes in color, the cathedral has maintained its distinct style, a blend of Victorian architecture and Italian Renaissance.

Elks Tower Sacramento, California
Elks Tower

7). Elks Tower

The Elks tower is one of the least impressive structures on this list. At the end of the day, it is just a building. But it occupies a special place in the hearts of the locals. The tower was constructed by an organization known as the Sacramento Elks. After outgrowing their meeting places in 1926, they decided to invest in a larger, more enduring home. For a time, it was the tallest building in Sacramento.

Today, the 14-story tower is quite popular among couples that are looking for suitable wedding venues.

US Bank Tower in Sacramento
US Bank Tower

8). US Bank Tower

The so-called 621 Capitol Mall is an impressive building that stands at 25 stories. Completed in 2008, it got its name from the US Bank which purchased the naming rights along with a sizable chunk of office space.

The most notable aspect of the structure is the series of LED screens that create a flowing river at the top of the building when they are activated at night.

The Bank of the West Tower is similar to the US Bank Tower. It is also just as impressive. Boasting 25 stories and a steel frame, the building features a massive parking garage (10 levels and 800 stalls), penthouse restaurants, and a 5-story atrium. As a fan of modern architecture, you cannot ask for more.

Old Sacramento
Old Sacremento

9). Old Sacramento

This is the first place a lot of history buffs visit. Old Sacramento slid into disrepair after workers abandoned the 19th Century waterfront business district. While plans were eventually made to restore these 28 acres to their former state, the area is still populated with historic buildings and museums that provide tourists a glimpse of a life they have only read about in history books.

wells Fargo center in Sacramento, CA
Wells Fargo Center

10). Wells Fargo Center

The Wells Fargo Center was completed in 1992. The skyscraper sits on 2.3 acres. The work of Hellmuth, Obata, and Kassabaum – not a general contractor Sacramento. The Wells Fargo Center is Sacramento’s tallest building. If you don’t care about the marble walls and clear glass atrium, you will probably appreciate the museum in the ground floor lobby which chronicles Wells Fargo’s history.

The building doesn’t necessarily have the charm of its historic counterparts but it is still impressive to behold.

What is Advanced Dispute Resolution and Why Should You Hire a Los Angeles Attorney

Los Angeles ADR Lawyer
34.0522° N, 118.2437° W

The modern society is highly litigious. You never know when someone may file a baseless suit against you. Most of these cases are finance-related. Such folks in Los Angeles attempt to make money through false claims. Then some disputes arise due to misunderstandings and business reasons. However, it’s advised to battle the suit and seek justice. While a court suit may be time-consuming and challenging, you can seek an alternative option called advanced resolution dispute (ADR). For that, you need an expert ADR attorney by your side.

ADR in a nutshell

It refers to the processes that could help parties to the dispute to resolve the matter without undergoing a trial. ADR involves collaboration, neutral evaluation, mediation, and arbitration. The parties to the dispute stick to an out-of-court settlement. Instead of arguing in the California court, ADR aims at arriving at a consensus to end the matter. While the proceedings are quite similar to a court procedure, they aren’t rigid. However, you need a proficient ADR attorney in Los Angeles for your matter. Such a lawyer will get you through the dispute swiftly.

Benefits of hiring a reputable Los Angeles, CA ADR attorney

When it comes to an out-of-court settlement, many people in California take the matter casually. They think that they could easily get a favorable settlement offer through arbitration. Consequently, they never turn to a lawyer in Los Angeles for the dispute. However, things don’t always work as you expect. When that happens, you’ve no option but to depend on the court. It’s always advised to rely on an expert lawyer to avoid such hassles. Here are important reasons for hiring an ADR attorney in LA.

Avoids problems

While the process of mediation or arbitration is less formal than the usual California court procedure, it involves issues. As a party to the dispute, you need to abide by the regulations of the procedure. At times, you’ve to file papers related to the dispute. Also, you should be present during the ADR proceedings.

Any mistakes and errors on your end could give rise to trouble. As a common man, you may not be aware of all the regulations of the process. Consequently, you’re likely to miss something that may invite hassles. When you hire a Los Angeles, CA ADR attorney, you don’t have to worry about the procedure.

The attorney in LA will let you know the whole process. He’ll prepare you for the proceedings and inform you what to say during the proceedings. Plus, he’ll document all of your papers as required. If you can’t attend a hearing due to some reason, your lawyer will represent you and take care of the matter.

The Los Angeles attorney may even ask for another date that matches your timetable. In case you fail to appear for a particular hearing, your attorney will update you about the proceedings. By appointing an ADR lawyer, you keep all possible hassles at bay.

Los Angeles advanced dispute resolution

Quick results

ADR proceedings in Los Angeles, California aim at saving time for parties to the dispute. Still, you could waste substantial time if you follow a DIY approach. Your opponent’s attorney could slow down the mediation process to impact the dispute. As well as affecting your day to day life, it can impact the overall dispute resolution. When that happens, the whole purpose of arbitration is defied.

Since you don’t have knowledge about the mediation process in California, you ought to believe the protocols and decisions of the procedure. The opponent’s attorney may lengthen the proceedings to lead you into a less desirable settlement. You need an expert to voice your grave concerns over the matter. That’s what a reliable LA ADR attorney does for you.

A Los Angeles attorney is well aware of the arbitration process. As such, he can quickly pinpoint the time pass tactics of the opponent’s lawyer. Consequently, your time won’t go waste on account of the motives or negligence of the opponent. Your lawyer will speed up the proceedings, citing the purpose of the arbitration. Your matter is likely to get resolved in less time.

Better settlement

People in California seek the arbitration procedure to land a favorable deal. However, that’s not the case always, especially if you pursue a DIY approach. Due to the lack of knowledge and information, you may run into issues. Consequently, you may be forced to accept a less favorable decision.

Hiring an expert Los Angeles ADR attorney averts possible issues and lets you land a favorable deal. An expert lawyer is familiar with the principles and regulations of the ADR process. With his knowledge and insights, he’ll make certain that the settlement goes in your favor. The other parties may not capitalize on your weakness and the result is a much better settlement.

Los Angeles arbitration

Enhanced relationships

Sometimes a small matter could lead to a court case. People in Los Angeles, CA usually get ego-driven and turn to court. Although California court and arbitration proceedings can resolve all matters, the decision will go against one party. In such situations, your relationship with another party will be impacted negatively.

Maybe, the party to the dispute is your Los Angeles business associate or your friend. If so, your relationship will get hurt. Consequently, your business or personal life could sustain the loss. You could repent on seeking arbitration proceedings even after winning the suit.

An expert ADR attorney in Los Angeles, CA will help to get a peaceful solution. He’ll guide you through your case and make certain that the interests of all parties are safeguarded and respected. Consequently, you may retain the relationship with other parties after the matter is solved.

Affordable

Most California parties never hire an ADR attorney for their situations. They think that the fees of the lawyer might be out of their budget. However, most Los Angeles lawyers charge a reasonable fee. Also, you’ve to pay the lawyer after your dispute is resolved. A quick look at the cost-benefit ratio will let you know how affordable and cost-effective the services of an attorney are.

Finishing words

ADR is a much better option to resolve matters peacefully. However, appointing a reliable ADR attorney Los Angeles is imperative. In return for a modest charge, you may enjoy a better settlement without hurting the interests of other parties. So, get in touch with a respected mediation lawyer and see the difference.

When Should a Laguna Beach, CA Business Declare Chapter 11 Bankruptcy?

33.5427° N, 117.7854° W
filing for bankruptcy in Laguna Beach, CA

Filing for bankruptcy is difficult, and the decision to do so is painful. This is true whether you’re filing as an individual or for your business. In both cases, you can liquidate everything. For Laguna Beach businesses, this is called a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Businesses also have the option to reorganize under Chapter 11. But when should a business declare Chapter 11 bankruptcy?

You Want to Save Your California Partnership

Chapter 13 in California allows small businesses to reorganize and continue operating as they shed or pay off debts. Chapter 13 bankruptcy is not an option for partnerships and LLCs. They are forced to go through Chapter 11 bankruptcy, though it is time consuming and complex. Chapter 13 is reserved for sole proprietorships, businesses owned by a single person. A chapter 11 is thus the only option for partnerships.

One of the benefits of partnerships is that there are several people who are contributing to the business, though each has an equity state. Partnerships like LLCs often protect the individuals from lawsuits against the business. Unfortunately, partnerships mean that the death, divorce and bankruptcy of one member affects the others. Chapter 11 bankruptcy in Laguna Beach is the best option for protecting a partnership when one member if filing personal bankruptcy, and the rest of the members would like to settle their debt without dissolving the partnership. Furthermore, Chapter 11 is an option for entering a debt repayment plan without liquidating the partnership.

California debt restructuring

You Don’t Qualify for Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

Chapter 13 bankruptcy, like liquidation bankruptcies for Laguna Beach, CA individuals, has a financial threshold you have to meet in order to qualify. If you have more debt than this, you have to go through Chapter 11 bankruptcy. As of this writing, a small business debtor can file for Chapter 11 if they owe no more than around 2.7 million dollars, excluding obligations to family members with a stake in the business. Chapter 11 is also preferable than personal liquidation bankruptcy when you own a small business in California and the debts exceed 400,000 dollars in unsecured debts or 1.3 million in secured debts. Consult with a bankruptcy attorney to determine if Chapter 11 bankruptcy is an option for you.

Your Laguna Beach, CA Small Business Is an LLC

Limited Liability Corporations or LLCs in Laguna Beach, California are not allowed to go through Chapter 13. They have to go through the more complex Chapter 11 process. This is the downside of an LLC, though it protects your personal assets from a lawsuit or business bankruptcy as long as the corporate veil wasn’t pierced.

A Chapter 11 filing in California may be preferable if you have a lot of unsecured debts. For example, small business debtors don’t have to deal with a creditor’s committee under Chapter 11. On the other hand, there are additional filings and reports that are required. For example, they have to provide balance sheets, statement of operations reports, cash flow statements and tax returns in addition to the bankruptcy petition. Small businesses don’t have to file the disclosure statement large corporations do.

Small businesses have 300 days to propose a Chapter 11 plan. The California court can extend that deadline. You may have the ability to file a competing bankruptcy plan under Chapter 11. Creditors could file for liquidation or a takeover of assets. The small business debtor has 180 days to propose the plan before creditors can do this. Large businesses have 120 days.

The California court will oversee the payments made to creditors and any affiliated lawsuits. When the payment plan and/or bankruptcy plan has been completed, most or all remaining outstanding debts will be discharged. The business continues operations within the rules set by the courts or the creditors, but it is able to continue. Once it has shed its debts, it is free to take out new loans or make new acquisitions.

California Chapter 11 bankruptcy

Your Laguna Beach Business Is a Corporation

Chapter 11 bankruptcies in California hit the news when large corporations file it. However, smaller corporations can file for Chapter 11, too. Chapter 11 allows the business to reorganize its structure and renegotiate its financial obligations. For example, they may be allowed to break unsustainable union contracts or lay off personnel. The layoffs and other personnel actions must still comply with state and federal law. For example, you can lay people off or refuse promised bonuses, but you can’t pay people less than the minimum wage. Money in a 401K or pension plan is off-limits to creditors, but the company can stop making contributions to it.

Chapter 11 in Laguna Beach involves more than downsizing. The debtor is allowed to sell some or all assets to pay its debts. They can also continue operations, paying their creditors on a new payment plan.

You Are a Single Asset California Real Estate Debtor

A Single Asset Real Estate debtor or SARE debtor is able to take advantage of Chapter 11. A Single Asset Real Estate debtor is one who owns a single, large piece of real estate. The bankruptcy code before 2005 defined this as a single piece of real estate worth less than four million dollars.

The SARE debtor is a person or business in California for which the single property or project generates most or all of their income. Note that it is possible for a person or parent organization to have several limited liability corporations, each of which is a SARE for a particular project. This could be an apartment building, strip mall, office building, warehouse or industrial building. SARE does not include family farmers, residential buildings with less than four units or a business that generates income outside of income from the given property. The SARE designation doesn’t include hotels, golf courses or hospitality businesses. They typically have too many additional sources of income like golf carts, restaurants, bars and complementary services offered to visitors.

Filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in Laguna Beach immediately stops foreclosure on the property. It also gives property owners breathing room, because the creditors have to go to court before they can take any action against the company.

You Are Not Sure What You’re Going to Do

Filing Chapter 11 bankruptcy Laguna Beach like other types of bankruptcy pauses all lawsuits, collections and foreclosures. A business filing for Chapter 11 will thus give a California business several weeks to stall legal actions. This gives them the time to formulate a solution. This may include allowing foreclosure on a property to go forward, filing lawsuits against those who owe you money or planning an orderly liquidation of assets.