Module 1

Question 1

Define project

Answer 1

A temporary endeavour undertaken to create a unique product, service or result

Question 2

What is the difference of a project and operational work?

Example?

Answer 2

Operational work is ongoing and routine

Projects have a predefined end date and a unique deliverable

Example:
Risk assessment = project
Air quality monitoring = operational work

Question 3

Define project management

Answer 3

Project management is a process that assists the project manager in meeting their ultimate goals

Question 4

Job of a project maneger

Answer 4

Is to produce the projects deliverables on time and on budget while simultaneously satisfying the client and earning profits for the env firm

Question 5

List the 6 main functions involved in project management

Answer 5

1. define
2. plan
3. coordinate
4. lead
5. monitor
6. control

Question 6

Explain the define and planning part of a pm circle

Answer 6

• expectations of project set and documented
• define what the project is intended to do
• define stakeholders
• plan tasks that must be completed
• resources identified and allocated
• schedules and budgets

Question 7

Explain the coordinating part of the pm circle

Answer 7

• roles and responsibilities assigned to people, equipment and materials to complete tasks
• make sure everything/one is at the right place at the right time

Question 8

Explain the lead portion of the pm circle

Answer 8

• direct team to complete the necessary tasks
• resolving conflicts
• motivating team
• managing priorities

Question 9

Explain the monitoring and controlling

Porting of the pm circle

Answer 9

• making sure project is on time/budget

- monitoring for differences between actual completion dates or costs (variances) and planned

Question 10

Define variances

Answer 10

Differences between actual completion dates or costs

Question 11

Describe some env projects in Alberta

Answer 11

• identification of potential impact prior to development approval
• identification and characterization of contamination after spill
• development or implementation of new tech to address public concern or new regulation
• cleaning up contaminated sites

Question 12

Describe the structure of a typical env project in Alberta

Answer 12

Client -> env firm -> project team

Question 13

More complicated structure of env projects

Pm has multiple projects

Answer 13

Client->.
Ct-> env firm -> pm -> projects
Client ->

Question 14

Responsibilities of a project manager in the fuel co example

Answer 14

• determine extent of hydrocarbon contamination at each of the
• 20 stations while
• satisfying client and
• making profit

-> document exactly what is expected to be delivered, when it will be and the budget

Question 15

What skills should a project manager possess

Answer 15

• Human Resources skills

- managerial and conceptual skills to complete projects

Question 16

What conceptual skills do project managers need?

Answer 16

• the ability to understand the project as a whole rather than individual parts
• including: problem solving, logical thinking, creativity, vision and ability to make decisions that positively impact project

Question 17

Explain managerial skills does a project manager require?

Answer 17

• Planning
• time management
• motivation
• delegation
• buffering skills

To keep team members motivated, focused, and informed about their own role within project

Question 18

Explain what Human Resources skills needed by a project manager

Answer 18

• communication
• coaching
• listening
• recognition
• conflict resolution

Help team Work through challenges that arise in project

Question 19

Why reporting unpleasant results may be one of the most difficult jobs of a project manager

Answer 19

The reports released by pm must be based on scientifically defensible analysis

• results may highlight need to take further actions which could cost client lots of money
• it may be difficult to report such findings
• result of reporting may be many detailed questions