Project Management

Business Report

This is portfolio based work on a selected project of choice (a new project you wish to initiate, an existing project that is already underway or a project you have already completed). Based on your selected project, you will work through test 1 to 7 and complete the mandatory activities as specified. All activities listed will contribute to your portfolio and will be presented in a business report format. In addition to the activities specified, you will also need to demonstrate academic research for each of the units covered via referencing and a bibliography. This will not be included in the word count.

The Business Report for test 1 - 7 should contain a word count of between 2000 - 2500 (+ or - 10%). Templates have also been provided to structure your work.

Please note these activities will need to be reflected in your chosen project.

Test 1

Using your selected project describe which key project management components you used to ensure a successful project outcome. Provide and explain the benefits of 3 project management components you used in your project. If your project did not include 3 components, select 3 components and describe how the project outcome could have/will be improved if they were used.

Test 2

Using your selected project describe briefly with examples how you led, managed and communicated within the project. Describe what worked well and what you would change if you had to repeat the project. For new projects, provide examples of where you may have to lead the project, manage the project and who you may have to communicate to.

In addition, provide an overview of your project team. Your project team could consist of direct reports and you report directly into a programme manager or other Senior Manager. Alternatively, your team could consist of key contacts who are helping you in the project but do not necessarily have a direct report into you. If your project is new, define your team requirements. You can draw a structure or describe your team or produce a combination. For this activity there is no word limit set and a template has been provided:

Test 3

Using the business case template provided populate as many of the sections you can in relation to your chosen project. If your project is business related please remove any references which may be considered of a confidential nature.

Test 4

Using your project identify your project stakeholders and then map using the power/interest grid.

Once identified, develop a communication and engagement plan for your group of stakeholders. Consider questions such as what communication tools would you use, how often would you communicate, what are the key messages you need to share, have you referenced who is supportive, neutral and un-supportive?

In addition, what risks do you think the project would face? Create a risk Matrix on your chosen project.

Test 5

Identify 5 risks, map probability and impact and identify your mitigating actions.

Using MS Project or Excel, create a project plan for your chosen project with approximately 30 activities. Within your project plan create dependencies, durations and allocate resources.

Test 6

Your selected project has shown indications of 'slippage' i.e. it is running behind schedule according to the plan produced in the Planning Stage of the Project. As the Project Manager what did you do/what would you do to try and rectify the situation and get the project back on track.

Test 7

Your project has now successfully reached the Closure stage and you are required to formally close down the project. As part of this stage you have been asked to shape and perform a post project review.