a) Responsibilities of the Project Manager:

1. Project Planning: Develop a detailed project plan outlining timelines, resources, and milestones for the new system’s development and installation.
2. Team Management: Lead the project team, assign tasks, and ensure team members are working effectively towards project goals.
3. Budget Control: Monitor the project budget, ensuring costs are controlled and any potential overruns are addressed promptly.
4. Risk Management: Identify potential risks to the project’s success and implement strategies to mitigate these risks.
5. Stakeholder Communication: Regularly update directors and other stakeholders on project progress, challenges, and achievements.
6. Vendor Coordination: Manage relationships with external vendors and suppliers involved in the project, such as software providers or consultants.
7. Quality Assurance: Ensure that the new system meets the required standards and specifications before final acceptance.
8. Change Management: Facilitate organizational adjustments, ensuring staff are trained and prepared for the new system’s implementation.
9. Documentation: Maintain comprehensive project documentation, including project plans, meeting notes, and progress reports.
10. Project Closure: Oversee the project’s completion, ensuring all deliverables are met and conducting a post-implementation review.

b) Skills Required for the Project Manager:

1. Leadership Skills: Ability to inspire and guide the project team towards achieving project objectives.
2. Technical Knowledge: Understanding of information systems, software development, and computer networks to make informed decisions.
3. Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication to convey project requirements and updates to stakeholders.
4. Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to address and resolve project-related issues promptly.
5. Organizational Skills: Strong planning and organizational abilities to manage tasks, timelines, and resources efficiently.
6. Negotiation Skills: Capability to negotiate contracts and manage expectations with vendors and suppliers.
7. Time Management: Ensuring the project is delivered within the specified time frame by managing deadlines effectively.
8. Financial Acumen: Ability to manage budgets and understand the financial implications of project decisions.
9. Risk Management Skills: Skills to identify potential risks and devise strategies to mitigate them.
10. Change Management: Experience in guiding organizations through change and ensuring a smooth transition to new systems.