Project Management

You should base your assignment on an organisation you work for, you know well personally or can effectively research. The choice is important as achievement of LOs 1 and 2 requires you to analyse actual business objectives, identify projects and then produce plans to achieve these objectives.

You will need access to detailed information about your chosen organisation, including the business objectives, together with information about the sector in which the organisation operates. This can be web-researched by using an organisation’s annual reports, websites and other general industry information.

Task 1
You are required to research the organisation and identify potential projects that fit with the current business objectives and are feasible for the organisation. You should prepare a report on potential projects. Your report must:
• Analyse the objectives of the business and identify at least two potential projects that emerge from the current objectives
• Select one of the projects to take forward and justify your choice 

For the selected project, your report must:
• Assess the feasibility of the proposed project
• Assess project methodologies, identify a suitable methodology for the chosen project and justify your choice
• Explain the structure you have devised for the management of the project and the role and responsibilities of the project manager

Extension activity
To achieve a Merit, you must also evaluate the skills and experience needed to fulfil the role of project manager.

To achieve a Distinction, you must also:
• Analyse the contribution that the project will make in achieving the business objectives
• Evaluate a range of approaches to manage the project and ensure a positive contribution of other team members

Learning outcomes and assessment criteria
LO1 AC 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1D1
LO2 AC 2.1, 2M1, 2D1

Task 2
The organisation has decided to move forward with the project and requires a detailed project plan. You should produce a project plan which includes details of how the project will be monitored and controlled. You will also need to consider evaluation of the project.

You must:
• Produce a detailed project plan with high level estimates of time, resources and costs that meet agreed milestones
• Assess the potential issues and risks associated with projects and how these can be managed
• Design systems and measures which can be used to monitor and appraise the status and progress of the project
• Design a contingency plan to mitigate against potential delays in the project
• Explain the tasks required to close a project
• Analyse ways to review the success of a project

Extension activity
To achieve a Merit, you must also evaluate the benefits of project reviews.

Learning outcomes and assessment criteria
LO2 AC 2.2
LO3 AC 3.1, 3.2, 3.3
LO4 AC 4.1, 4.2, 4M1