ABOUT THIS SERIES OF ARTICLES:

The purpose of this series of articles is to provide guidance for supervisors or managers in the game industry; to help them face the unique problems encountered when managing creative talent. Emphasis will be placed on dealing with implementing technological changes and employee empowerment.

As a manager, you face unique problems that "Old School" management techniques just don't address. Supervising people in the performance of their jobs can certainly be a challenge. This is especially true in the game industry where the work environment is often chaotic due to:

• Game Companies Continually Incorporating New Technology Within Product and Within the Product Development Cycles

Game companies focus on utilizing the latest and greatest in new technology within products or in the development of products. As companies incorporate the use of new technologies, managers are continually seeking new ways of structuring themselves and the way people are organized to perform their job functions. Compounding the challenge of being an effective manager, most people are cautious of anything that is new and many are inclined to resist change. So, even when you try to make changes in how a worker performs his or her job, you will probably encounter resistance.

• Managing a Diverse Group of Creative People and Retaining Them!

Managers in the game industry face the increased challenge of managing a diverse team of artistic and creative people -- all who are eager to participate -- and many with egos. Implementing a cooperative work environment and becoming a coach will go far in helping you gain total control over your development project, eager participation from your team, and a culture that helps you retain your talent.

In this series we will look at:

• Creating a Cooperative Work Environment

• The ABC's of Running a Development Project

• The Zen of Solving Management Issues

• Managing Cultural Diversity

• Building Relationships Throughout Your Company

• Improving Your Relationships With Your Boss and Upper Management.

• Learning to Supervise People You Really Don't Supervise (external 3^rd party developers, other teams within your company managed by others, telecommuters, etc)

• Creating Culture and Other Ways to Gain Employee Loyalty and Retention

Stay tuned to GIGnews.com for this exciting new series!

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