Discussion Board

The Discussion Board (DB) is part of the core of online learning. Classroom discussion in an online environment requires the active participation of students and the instructor to create robust interaction and dialogue. Every student is expected to create an original response to the open-ended DB question as well as engage in dialogue by responding to posts created by others throughout the week. At the end of each unit, DB participation will be assessed based on both level of engagement and the quality of the contribution to the discussion.

At a minimum, each student will be expected to post an original and thoughtful response to the DB question and contribute to the weekly dialogue by responding to at least two other posts from students. The first contribution must be posted before midnight (Central Time) on Friday of each week. Two additional responses are required after Friday of each week. Students are highly encouraged to engage on the Discussion Board early and often, as that is the primary way the university tracks class attendance and participation.

The purpose of the Discussion Board is to allow students to learn through sharing ideas and experiences as they relate to course content and the DB question. Because it is not possible to engage in two-way dialogue after a conversation has ended, no posts to the DB will be accepted after the end of each unit.

Discussion Board Question

You have a meeting next week with the Sales and Marketing director to determine the marketing people that will be on your project team. They will focus on completing the marketing campaign deliverables (advertising, customer newsletter, trade show) to prepare for the upgraded product launch. In preparation for the meeting, you are writing up job descriptions for the key roles you need filled.

Based on your understanding of the marketing deliverables and typical roles, go to the discussion board and list the marketing-related roles you need filled. Also describe one of the marketing roles in more detail. Craft a high-level job description that identifies the activities that will be completed, the skills required, and the level of supervision needed. Finally, explain the ethical and legal expectations and standards both of the product and marketing personnel assigned to this project.

In your own words, post a substantive response to the Discussion Board question(s) and comment on other postings. Your response should address the DB question(s) and move the conversation forward. You will be graded on the quality of your postings, including mastery of the concept as well as critical thinking. If asked for your opinion, do not simply state that it is a good or bad idea; elaborate on your reasons and argument. Include enough detail to substantiate your thinking as well as your position on the questions or comments.

Assignment Objectives

Analyze various organizational systems, and determine how to integrate project management processes into various existing corporate structures.

Construct a project plan (based upon the core planning processes) that is focused on customer needs, that effectively balances project and organizational objectives with stakeholder satisfaction, and that addresses the nine project management processes areas.

Recognize situations that present potential ethical and legal issues, and develop solutions for those issues.