1. Projects and project management

Question 1

What is a project?

Characteristics according to DIN69901 + two more?

Answer 1

A planned complex task.
DIN: unique set of conditions:
- objectives
- constraints (time, finance,..)
- project-specific organization 
- differentiation from other undertakings

Other?

Question 2

How much technical expertise is required by a project manager?
Why may a lack/excess be disadvantageous?

Answer 2

The PM should have sufficient technical expertise to fulfill his role - but must keep the overview and not get lost in the details.
Lack: Lacks the knowledge for thorough e.g. planning and risk assessment.
Excess: May get lost in details, over-engineering..

Question 3

Name three project classes distinguished by their type of deliverables.

Answer 3

• R&D project
• Investment project
• Organizational project

Question 4

What is a process?

Answer 4

A process is a number of logically interconnected tasks that transform inputs into desired outputs using material and immaterial goods.

Question 5

Sequence of project management phases defined in DIN69901?

Answer 5

1. Initialization
2. Definition
3. Planning
4. Controlling
5. Close out