LO2 Lifecycles

Question 1

2 reasons for phases in linear lifecycle

Answer 1

1. To support governance
   (clear decision points, roles/responsibilities, processes, confidence at board level, go/no-go decision points ensure viable projects proceed, stops waste (money/resource), opportunities to revise budgets / timescales)
2. Makes them easier to manage
   (Mini-projects, team know what to do at each stage, removes ambiguity, documents responsibilities, consistency across organisation, resource can be planned)

Question 2

3 reasons a project may close early

Answer 2

1. It becomes unviable
2. Product failure due to technical reason
3. Requirements significantly change

Question 3

2 differences between lifecycle and extended lifecycle

Answer 3

1. Project delivers the product / extended realises the benefits
2. Roles and responsibilities involved

Question 4

3 differences between linear and iterative lifecycle

Answer 4

1. Number of passes through the lifecycle phases
2. Level of uncertainty in output
3. The length of time to realise benefits

Question 5

4 ways knowledge / information management support decision making

Answer 5

1. Support gate decisions
2. Gather information from stakeholders and understand their changing needs
3. Avoid mistakes / repetition through lessons learned.
4. Take action in response to data.

Question 6

Decision gates benefit

Answer 6

Supports governance.
Only viable projects proceed.
Resources freed up for better options.
Opportunity to highlight achievements and gain commitment for next phase.
Useful point to capture lessons learned.

Question 7

Benefits review benefit

Answer 7

Focus on delivery of benefits.
Progress towards benefit realisation tracked.
Return on investment achieved.
Remedial action taken to address gaps.
Assess opportunities to exploit opportunities.

Question 8

Audits benefit

Answer 8

Independent and unbiased view.
Check processes are being complied with.
Gives confidence to stakeholders.
Continuous improvement.
Reputation.
Support governance.