Introduction to project Management

Question 1

How is defined projects?

Answer 1

A unique set of co-ordinated activities, with definite starting and finishing points, undertaken by an individual or organization to meet specific objectives within defined schedule, cost and performance parameters.

Question 2

What is a Portfolio?

Answer 2

Is a grouping of projects, programmes and other activities carried out under the sponsorship of an organisation

Question 3

What is a Project?

Answer 3

1) a unique transient endeavour undertaken to achieve a desired outcome. 2) is a unique piece of work, with a defined beginning and end. And at least one major crisis?

Question 4

What is a Programme?

Answer 4

Is a group of related projects, which may include related business as usual activities, that together achieve beneficial change of a strategic nature of a organisation.

Question 5

What is a Project management?

Answer 5

Is the process by which projects are defined, planned, monitored, controlled and delivered such that the agreed benefits are realised. Projects bring about change and through project management this change is achieved efficiently.

According to the APM the definition of project management is a management discipline that is differentiated from the management of an organisation business-as-usual by the fact that a project has a clear objective, and deliverables, with a defined start and end, that must be completed on time, within budget (cost) and to the agreed quality and of course it must deliver the agreed benefits.

Question 6

Project management should achieve a good delivery through:

Answer 6

• Understanding the need, problem or opportunity that the project will address.
• Determining the business case, success criteria and benefits of the proposed project.
• Defining what has to be accomplished and delivered, typically stated in terms of scope, time, cost and quality.
• Developing a plan (PMP) to achieve the deliverables and then implementing the plan, ensuring that progress is maintained in line with objectives.
• Utilising resources as and when required in a team environment under the direction of a project manager who is accountable for the successful delivery of the project in terms of time, cost and quality.
• Ensuring that the sponsor is accountable for achievements of the defined benefits
• Using appropriate mechanisms, tools and techniques.

Question 7

The project manager as the name suggests is the person who is in charge of the project. He usually has to deal with following drawbacks:

Answer 7

• PM has a limited authority
• Resources borrowed
• Competition for resources
• Conflicting priorities and interest
• Novelty/uncertainty
• Transition to operations.