Project Management Concepts Flashcard #2

Front

What is the main purpose of project execution?

Back

To coordinate people and resources

Answer explanation

The main purpose of project execution is to coordinate people and resources effectively to ensure that project tasks are completed as planned. This involves managing team dynamics and resource allocation.

Front

Name one tool used to represent the project schedule visually.

Back

Gantt Chart

Answer explanation

A Gantt Chart is a visual tool specifically designed to represent project schedules, showing tasks along a timeline. Other options like flowcharts and pie charts serve different purposes and are not suitable for this context.

Front

What does Earned Value Management (EVM) measure?

Back

Cost and schedule performance

Answer explanation

Earned Value Management (EVM) specifically measures cost and schedule performance by comparing the planned progress with the actual progress, helping project managers assess project health.

Front

Why are status meetings important in project monitoring?

Back

They provide updates on project progress.

Answer explanation

Status meetings are crucial for providing updates on project progress, allowing team members to share information, identify issues, and ensure alignment. This keeps the project on track and facilitates timely decision-making.

Front

What approach did NASA use during the Mars Rover missions’ development phase?

Back

Iterative design

Answer explanation

NASA employed an iterative design approach during the Mars Rover missions, allowing for continuous testing and refinement of the rover's systems, which enhanced adaptability and innovation throughout the development process.

Front

What is the role of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in project management?

Back

They track and measure important metrics such as milestones and budget variance.

Answer explanation

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are essential in project management as they track and measure important metrics like milestones and budget variance, helping to assess project performance and guide decision-making.

Front

What is one benefit of the iterative design process in project development?

Back

Allows for continuous testing and refinement

Answer explanation

One benefit of the iterative design process is that it allows for continuous testing and refinement. This means that feedback can be incorporated throughout development, leading to a more effective final product.

Front

Describe how status meetings facilitate effective communication within a project team.

Back

By providing a regular forum for updates

Answer explanation

Status meetings facilitate effective communication by providing a regular forum for updates, allowing team members to share progress, address challenges, and align on project goals, which enhances collaboration and transparency.

Front

How does real-time monitoring benefit project management in the context of NASA's Mars Rover missions?

Back

It allows for immediate detection of issues.

Answer explanation

Real-time monitoring allows for immediate detection of issues during NASA's Mars Rover missions, enabling quick responses to problems and enhancing overall project management efficiency.

Front

What is the importance of real-time monitoring in project management?

Back

It allows for immediate detection of issues.

Answer explanation

Real-time monitoring is crucial in project management as it allows for immediate detection of issues, enabling teams to address problems promptly and maintain project timelines.