PROJECT MANAGEMENT IN JUNIOR COMPANIES: ANALYSIS OF THE BRAZILIAN MANAGEMENT CONTEXT

Junior Companies (EJs in Portuguese) contribute to the professional training of undergraduates mainly through the development of projects, also acting as a source of access to solutions and new technologies mostly for micro and small entrepreneurs, so it is important to discuss Project Management in these organizations. Thus, this study aims to understand the particularities and needs of EJs in relation to Project Management and offer insights that can contribute to these organizations. To accomplish this, a multiple case study was carried out with six EJs, followed by a survey with Brazilian EJs at a 12% response rate. It was possible to identify the importance of good organizational diagnosis, identifying the clients' expectations and needs for the subsequent development of the projects. In addition, it is essential to have a well-structured initial planning of the project, with defined scope and schedule, but subject to review when necessary, requiring the active participation of the clients during the project.