From prolific and influential consultant and author Tom DeMarco comes a project management novel that vividly illustrates the principles — and development team.With his trademark wit set free in the novel format, DeMarco centers the plot around the development of six software products. Mr. Tompkins, a manager downsized from a giant telecommunications company, divides the huge staff of developers at his disposal into eighteen teams — three for each of the products. The teams are of different sizes and use different methods, and they compete against each other . . . and against an impossible deadline.With these teams, and with the help of numerous consultants who come to his aid, Mr. Tompkins tests the project management principles he has gathered over a lifetime. Key chapters end with journal entries that form the core of the eye-opening approaches to management illustrated in this entertaining novel.