A project is always unique, even if there are similarities in the product produced, the project location, or the organization in which the project is performed.

Consider the factors discussed in Chapter 1 of the PMBOK®Guide (PMI, 2013) such as the presence of a PMO, the alignment between the strategic plan and the project, the relationship between a project and aprogram or portfolio and the enterprise environmental factors (EEF).

Next, consider the elements outlined in Chapter 2 of the PMBOK®Guide (PMI, 2008), such as the structure of the organization within which the project is performed, the timing of multi-phased projects, the stakeholders, the organizational culture and style, and the presence or absence of organizational process assets (OPA). Finally, consider the information on project constraints and project success factors in the first chapter of your textbook (Schwalbe, 2010).

Question: Most of the elements in the project environment are already in place before the project begins. How does the project environment influence your options and responsibilities as a project manager? What types of ethical concerns might be involved with considering these EEF and OPA ?

Project Management Institute (PMI). (2013). A guide to the project management body of knowledge (PMBOK Guide), (5th ed.) Newtown Square, PA: Author.

Schwalbe, K. (2015). Revised: An introduction to project management (5rd ed.) Minneapolis, MN: Kathy Schwalbe, LLC.