Unit 3: Understand the situational context of projects Flashcards
3.1
Explain 2/3 differences between projects and BAU
Duration - project is timebound, business as usual is ongoing
A project is unique and intended to deliver specific outputs and change. Business as usual is repetitive with the same tasks repeated by the operations team meaning business as usual activities are efficient for the business.
A project has a dynamic team whereas BAU will have a stable team. In projects, the team will increases / decrease depending on the tasks required during each phase. Within BAU, the work is ongoing and repetitive and so the team numbers remain stable.
3.2
Describe 2 differences between portfolio and project management
Project management focuses on the delivery of specific outputs and objectives whereas portfolio management focuses on the delivery of strategic objectives.
Portfolio management will prioritise projects and programmes based on the calculated return on investment. The project will have already been justified and given the go ahead and therefore the project manager is focused on the delivery of outputs.
3.4
Explain 2/3 reasons for managing projects as part of a programme rather than standalone projects
Scope of the required business change is not fully defined - the project can be managed instead within a programme where one project will be a feasibility study or a fact finder to inform about what is required to deliver business change. Subsequent projects will follow where the scope is better defined.
A project within an uncertain project environment might be more suitable to be run as a programme of projects. The overall requirements can be split into several work packages resulting in the uncertainty being spread across projects and managed accordingly. This allows the earlier projects to mitigate threats and hopefully reduce the level of risks across the programme.
A project with multiple dependencies and outputs may be easier to manage as separate projects within a programme. By understanding the dependencies, each project can be allocated a set of requirements and outputs.
3.7
Explain 3 aspects of projects that could be impacted by the need to comply with laws and regulations
Working conditions - employment law covers discrimination, disability provisions, dismissal and grievance procedures, working hours, annual leave entitlement, employment contract and pay.
Risk management - the PM and all project staff must understand the risks in their area of work and take necessary steps to highlight these and take proactive steps to manage these risks. All employers must protect the health, safety and welfare at work of all their employees - as well as others on the premises. All workers have a duty of care for their own health and safety.
Governance - The PS is accountable for ensuring that the work is governed effectively and delivers the set outputs and objectives to meet identified needs. The PM must be experienced in project-based working to give the PS a high degree of assurance that he is managing the work effectively.
