Development / project briefs

Question 1

What is a project Brief?

Answer 1

An outline of project scope, requirements, time, cost and quality, risks

Question 2

Who develops the project brief?

Answer 2

The client is responsible for writing the project brief; however, the PM often comes on board as part of the pre-engagement to assist, further the Feasibility Study further informs the project brief

Question 3

What is included within a project brief?

Answer 3

• Details of the work included - new build, refurb etc,
• The spaces required
• Performance requirements of the space
• Constraints
• Assumptions
• Interdependencies
• Order of works
• Project value
• Project risks

Question 4

How do you manage changes to the project brief?

Answer 4

Changes to the project brief are managed through change control and or instruction from the Project Sponsor.

Question 5

What is the purpose of a Feasibility Study?

Answer 5

To ascertain the viability of the project, giving a recommendation for the most suitable option to be delivered within project parameters.

Question 6

What headings and information would you expect to be included within a Feasibility Study?

Answer 6

• Project scope
• Justification
• Option analysis
• Financial information
• Risk
• Conclusion and recommendations

Question 7

What is the risk of taking forward the costs provided at Feasibility?

Answer 7

FS cost is based on a high-level option analysis and does not account for the cost increases which are likely to occur as the design develops.

Question 8

What is the difference between a Project Brief and a FBC?

Answer 8

The brief sets out the project requirements whereas the business case provides an overview of the project and justification for the brief, financial information.

Question 9

What is a Development Appraisal?

Answer 9

A development appraisal takes into consideration a variety of factors to enable a developer to understand the viability of a potential development and residual value of the land.
Note these are not undertaken within Government project.

Question 10

What is a statement of need?

Answer 10

Outlines the requirements, objectives, and desired outcomes of a project or initiative helping to clarify the purpose, how you are going to address the issues and therefore inform the scope.

Question 11

What would your first step be when taking on a project from a client?

Answer 11

The first step would be to locate the statement of need, and if not yet drafted to create one with the client.

Question 12

What is a business case?

Answer 12

A business case is a proposal for a new project. It should outline the business needs and benefits your company will receive from pursuing this opportunity.

Question 13

How might local authority planning matters affect a project at the briefing stage?

Answer 13

Any planning conditions or constraints such as heritage considerations, or being a listed building or within a conservation area.

Question 14

How does a project execution plan differ from a project brief?

Answer 14

A project execution plan sets out how a project is to be run, where as the brief identifies what the project’s objectives are and hat the outcome should achieve.

Question 15

What sort of information would you expect to see in an outline project brief?

Answer 15

Project objectives
Timelines
Constraints
Interdependencies
Risks

Question 16

16. How would I manage a conflict of priorities between stakeholder?

Answer 16

I would prioritise through being informed by the stakeholders position on the stakeholder map regarding influence and input to then inform which takes precedence.

Question 17

17. Development appraisal?

Answer 17

An analysis and evaluation of the financial viability and profitability of a proposed development project. It involves assessing the potential costs, risks, and returns associated with the project. A development appraisal typically includes a thorough examination of the market conditions, development costs, expected revenues, financing options, and potential risks and uncertainties. It helps developers and investors make informed decisions about the feasibility and financial viability of the project.

Question 18

18. Development brief

Answer 18

Development brief is a document that outlines the objectives, requirements, and constraints for a proposed project.

It provides a clear framework and guidelines for the design, functionality, and desired outcomes of the project. The development brief typically includes information on the site, planning policies, design principles, sustainability requirements, and any specific conditions or constraints that need to be considered. It helps to align the expectations of the stakeholders involved and provides a basis for the design and planning stages of the project.

Question 19

19. What is the difference between a project brief and a project appraisal?

Answer 19

A project brief is a document that outlines the high-level objectives, scope, and requirements of a proposed project; including; project goals, deliverables, timelines, budget, and any specific constraints or assumptions..

A project appraisal, also known as a feasibility study, is conducted to assess the viability and potential success of a proposed project. It includes assessments of technical feasibility, economic viability, market demand, financial projections, risks, and potential benefits.