DIS2 SAND6221Project Management

Describe the factors that cause a software development project to succeed or fail

Answer explanation

Key factors for success include clear requirements, effective communication, skilled team members, and proper project management. Failures often stem from scope creep, poor planning, and lack of stakeholder involvement.

Describe the responsibilities of a project manager

Answer explanation

A project manager is responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects. They coordinate teams, manage budgets, ensure timelines are met, and communicate with stakeholders to achieve project goals effectively.

Describe the knowledge areas in the project management body of knowledge (PMBOK)

Answer explanation

The PMBOK identifies ten knowledge areas: Integration, Scope, Schedule, Cost, Quality, Resource, Communication, Risk, Procurement, and Stakeholder Management, each essential for effective project management.

Describe the Agile approach to the project management knowledge areas

Answer explanation

The Agile approach emphasizes iterative development, flexibility, and collaboration across project management knowledge areas, focusing on delivering value through adaptive planning and continuous improvement.

Explain the activities required to get a project approved (Core Process 1)

Answer explanation

To get a project approved, activities include defining project scope, conducting feasibility studies, preparing a business case, obtaining stakeholder input, and presenting the proposal to decision-makers for approval.

Explain the activities required to plan and monitor a project (Core Process 2)

Answer explanation

To plan and monitor a project, define objectives, create a timeline, allocate resources, establish a budget, and set performance metrics. Regularly review progress, adjust plans as needed, and communicate with stakeholders.

What are the categories of project success?

• Successful projects – on time, within budget, on scope

• Challenged projects – failure in one area

• Failed projects – cancelled or not used

Answer explanation

Project success is categorized into three types: Successful projects meet all criteria (on time, within budget, on scope), Challenged projects fail in one area, and Failed projects are either cancelled or not used.

What are the reasons for project failure?

• Undefined project management practices

• Poor IT management and poor IT procedures

• Unclear business needs and project objectives

• Inexperienced project managers

• Inadequate executive support for the project

Answer explanation

Project failure can stem from undefined management practices, poor IT procedures, unclear objectives, inexperienced managers, and lack of executive support, all of which hinder effective project execution.

What are the internal responsibilities of a project manager?

• Developing the project schedule

• Recruiting and training team members

• Assigning work to teams and team members

• Assessing project risks

• Monitoring and controlling project deliverables and milestones

Answer explanation

The internal responsibilities of a project manager include developing the project schedule, recruiting and training team members, assigning work, assessing risks, and monitoring deliverables to ensure project success.

What are the external responsibilities of a project manager?

• Reporting the project’s status and progress

• Working directly with the client (the project’s sponsor) and other stakeholders

• Identifying resource needs and obtaining resources

Answer explanation

The external responsibilities of a project manager include reporting the project’s status, working with clients and stakeholders, and identifying resource needs to ensure project success.