Software Engineering: Introduction to Project Management
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Questions and Answers

Which of the following best illustrates a technical project management skill?

  • Forecasting potential supply chain disruptions based on geopolitical events.
  • Applying health and safety practices to ensure compliance on a construction site. (correct)
  • Motivating a team to exceed their performance targets through positive reinforcement.
  • Negotiating contract terms with a vendor to secure the best possible pricing.

A project manager is trying to improve team collaboration. Which action would MOST directly address this goal?

  • Organizing a workshop focused on conflict resolution and communication skills. (correct)
  • Establishing a detailed project timeline with clearly defined milestones.
  • Creating a risk management plan to identify potential project threats.
  • Implementing a new project management software to track task progress.

A project is facing delays due to a critical resource being unavailable. Which skill would be MOST useful for the project manager in mitigating this issue?

  • In-depth knowledge of information technology for data analysis.
  • Expertise in organizational structure to understand reporting lines.
  • Mastery of accounting principles to understand the project's financial health.
  • Strong negotiation skills to find alternative solutions and reallocate resources. (correct)

Which scenario exemplifies the application of strategic planning skills by a project manager?

<p>Ensuring that the project aligns with the organization's long-term goals and market trends. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary benefit of a project manager possessing a strong understanding of organizational behavior?

<p>The ability to effectively navigate internal politics and influence stakeholders. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Citibank's big data project success highlights the importance of what key elements?

<p>Prioritizing business outcomes, careful planning, and effective project management. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the relationship between projects, programs, and portfolios?

<p>A program is a group of related projects coordinated to harness synergies; a portfolio is a group of projects or programs pursued to reach strategic objectives. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A construction company is undertaking the development of a new eco-friendly housing complex. Which of the following would be considered a project stakeholder?

<p>Future residents who will live in the housing complex. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a software development project, the project manager notices that the team is consistently missing deadlines due to unclear requirements. Which skill should the project manager prioritize to address this issue effectively?

<p>General management and leadership to improve communication and requirements gathering. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A project is considered successful when it achieves its objectives within the defined constraints. Which of the following scenarios best exemplifies project success?

<p>A marketing campaign that achieves its target audience reach, stays within budget, and is launched on the scheduled date. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A project is facing scope creep, leading to increased workload and potential delays. What would be the most effective initial step for the project manager to take?

<p>Communicate the issue to the project sponsor and stakeholders, and reassess the project scope and objectives. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

An IT company is managing multiple projects simultaneously. Which organizational structure would be most suitable for coordinating these projects to achieve strategic objectives and harness synergies?

<p>Establishing a project management office (PMO) to oversee all projects and programs, ensuring alignment with strategic goals. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A project manager's role in balancing time, cost, and scope is MOST accurately described as:

<p>Maintaining equilibrium between the three constraints to achieve project success. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which scenario exemplifies an IS project undertaken to seize a business opportunity?

<p>Developing a mobile app that allows customers to track their fitness progress using the company's products. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

An IS project aimed at solving a business problem would MOST likely involve:

<p>Modifying an existing system to provide more accurate and timely information. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios BEST illustrates how an IS project addresses a business problem?

<p>A manufacturing firm upgrades its inventory management system, reducing stockouts and overstock situations. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor poses a unique challenge specific to information systems (IS) projects?

<p>Rapidly changing technological landscape. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic that differentiates IS projects from other types of projects?

<p>IS projects often require specialized personnel who are difficult to find and retain. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What makes hiring IS personnel uniquely challenging?

<p>The specific skills required are constantly evolving. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Considering the 'juggler' analogy for project managers, which aspect of project management aligns with keeping the 'scope' ball in the air?

<p>Managing client expectations and delivering agreed-upon deliverables. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How might a project manager address the unique challenge of a rapidly changing technological context in an IS project?

<p>By including buffer time in the schedule and allocating budget for potential technology upgrades. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor most significantly contributes to the complexity of managing Information Systems (IS) projects due to evolving technologies?

<p>The 'moving target' phenomenon, where project requirements shift with technological advancements. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why does the open-source nature of some software pose a unique challenge in IS project management?

<p>It increases the visibility of source code, which may expose potential vulnerabilities. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following characteristics of software development contributes to its complexity by making progress and quality difficult to assess?

<p>The 'invisible' nature of software makes it challenging to visualize and measure progress. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an accurate definition of 'Project Management'?

<p>The application of knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques to meet project requirements. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Within the framework of project management, which process group is primarily concerned with defining and documenting specific project goals, deliverables, and timelines?

<p>Planning (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which project management process group would activities related to team building, quality assurance, and stakeholder communication primarily fall?

<p>Executing (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which project management process group focuses on formally finalizing all project activities, transferring deliverables, and documenting lessons learned?

<p>Closing (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which process group continuously tracks project performance, identifies potential deviations from the plan, and implements corrective actions?

<p>Monitoring and Controlling (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A project team is struggling to manage evolving system requirements and scope creep. Which aspect of 'IS Project Complexities' should be addressed to mitigate these issues?

<p>Changing Project Scope (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A project manager notices that a new technology implementation introduces unforeseen vulnerabilities. Which IS project complexity is most relevant to address this issue effectively?

<p>Changing Technologies (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor most significantly differentiates Information Systems (IS) projects from other project types, such as construction or manufacturing?

<p>The rapidly evolving technological landscape and the need for constant adaptation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is managing user involvement particularly crucial in IS projects compared to other project types?

<p>IS solutions often need to be implemented and used across various organizational levels and geographical locations, necessitating diverse user input. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of IS projects, why is understanding various systems development methodologies considered important for project managers?

<p>It enables project managers to select and integrate appropriate methodologies into a project management framework, aligning with project needs. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of IS projects often presents a challenge due to the creation of 'unique and novel solutions'?

<p>The increased risk and uncertainty associated with implementing untested functionalities. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the issue of 'changing project scope' typically manifest in IS projects, and what is its impact?

<p>It often results in scope creep and unclear requirements, demanding skilled project management to mitigate potential negative impacts. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key difference between project management methodologies (like PRINCE2 or Agile) and IS development methodologies (like the systems development lifecycle)?

<p>Project management methodologies provide frameworks for managing projects, while IS development methodologies provide structured approaches for developing information systems. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Considering the 'changing technological context' in IS projects, what strategic response might a company take to maintain competitiveness, as exemplified by Barnes & Noble?

<p>Establishing a presence in new technological arenas to offset competitors' advantages. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is the 'difficulty of hiring IS personnel' a unique challenge in IS projects compared to other fields?

<p>There is intense competition for skilled IS employees, making hiring and retention difficult. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can project managers effectively mitigate the risks associated with 'unique and novel solutions' in IS projects?

<p>By implementing thorough testing, prototyping, and risk assessment strategies. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what way does failing to 'manage user involvement' effectively in IS projects potentially impact the final outcome?

<p>It ensures that the system meets the actual needs of its users, potentially leading to rejection or underutilization. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

What is a project?

Related activities planned to achieve a unique outcome within a specified duration.

What is a program?

A group of related projects managed to achieve synergistic benefits.

What is a portfolio?

A collection of projects or programs managed to meet strategic objectives.

Who are stakeholders?

Entities involved in the project or affected by it.

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Who is a project sponsor?

Organizational member who provides high-level support to the project.

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Who is a project manager?

Person responsible for managing a project from start to finish.

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What is project success?

Achieving project objectives on time, within budget, and with the agreed scope and quality.

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Project Manager

A professional who balances time, cost and scope to ensure project success.

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Time, Cost and Scope

The three constraints that every project manager has to balance.

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Taking Advantage of Business Opportunities

Pursuing opportunities that give a business a competitive edge.

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Solving Business Problems

Fixing inefficiencies or inaccuracies in existing business processes.

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Information Systems Projects

Projects initiated to capitalize on opportunities and resolve business issues.

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Changing Technological Context

The ever-evolving landscape of tools, platforms and methods.

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Difficulty of Hiring IS Personnel

The complexities involved in finding qualified individuals to maintain a project

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Technical Project Management Skills

Skills related to different functional areas within an organization.

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Functional Area Skills

Skills encompassing finance, accounting, purchasing, marketing, contracts, commercial Law and manufacturing.

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Organization-Wide Skills

Skills, such as logistics and supply chain; strategic, tactical, and operational planning.

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Leadership Skills

Skills that include effective communication, interpersonal abilities, negotiation, and conflict resolution.

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Leadership Skills

A leader's ability to set a clear direction, unite individuals towards a common objective, and inspire action.

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Hiring IS Personnel

Securing and retaining skilled IS professionals is a challenge due to high demand.

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Managing User Involvement

Involve different user levels in planning, implementation, and maintenance for system success.

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Systems Development Methodologies

Applying established methodologies to IS projects to provide a framework for development and management.

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Unique Solutions

IS projects often involve creating novel systems that haven't been attempted before.

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Changing Project Scope

Changes to project scope and unclear requirements are common in IS projects.

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IS Project Uniqueness

IS projects differ from non-IS projects due to rapid technology changes.

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Scope Creep

The unplanned expansion of the project's scope during its execution.

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Project Management Methodologies

Project management focuses on planning, executing, and closing projects.

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IS Development Methodologies

IS development methodologies are the frameworks for building and implementing IS projects.

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Changing Technologies

Technology can change during a project, creating a moving target scenario.

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Software Project Challenges

Required functions increase, source code opens, and software remains 'invisible'.

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Project Management

Applying knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques to meet project requirements.

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PMBOK (Project Management Body of Knowledge)

A guide that identifies processes and knowledge areas for project management.

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Five Process Groups

Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring and Controlling and Closing.

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Ten Knowledge Areas

Scope, Time, Cost, Quality, HR, Communications, Risk, Procurement, Stakeholder, and Integration.

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Project Scope

Process of determining and documenting a list of specific project goals, deliverables, features, functions, tasks, or costs.

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Project Planning

Process of making sure a project is completed according to its plan.

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IS Personnel

The individuals working on a project.

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Monitoring and Controlling

How effectively a project is being managed.

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Study Notes

  • Software Engineering involves project management, as it's a key element in successfully delivering software projects.
  • CS 3205 covers project management principles and practices relevant to Software Engineering.
  • Chestere Baring, CLSSYB, is an IT Business Analyst and Editorial Journal Author, and is the professor for this course.

Introduction to Project Management

  • Key learning objectives include understanding the defining characteristics of a project.
  • Project management and its elements will be discussed.
  • Skills of a successful project manager will be highlighted.
  • It's important to understand the reasons for both project failure and project success.
  • Project Management is essential because projects are increasingly important and complex, requiring systematic management processes.
  • A case opens with Business Requirements related to CitiBank's Big Data Projects.
  • Focus on Business Outcomes plus Careful Planning plus Project Management equals Big Data Project Success.

What is a Project

  • A project is a planned effort with related activities, aiming for a unique outcome within a specified timeframe.
  • A program is a group of related projects working together to create synergies.
  • A portfolio is a collection of projects or programs, potentially unrelated, pursuing common strategic goals.
  • Stakeholders have an active interest in the project, impacting its results positively or negatively.
  • A project sponsor is an organizational member, providing high-level support.
  • Project managers require a comprehensive skillset: general management, leadership, technical expertise, conflict management, and customer relationship skills.
  • Project success is achieving project goals on time, within budget, and meeting agreed quality and scope.

Balancing Act

  • Project managers balance time, cost, and scope to ensure successful project completion.
  • Balancing time, cost, and scope are vital to successful completion of any project.

Why IS Projects

  • IS Projects are undertaken to take advantage of business opportunities and solve business problems.
  • Taking advantage of opportunities may involve using new systems for innovative services. For example, a sports brand creates a mobile app-connected tennis shoe that tracks the users running performance.
  • Solving business problems could mean improvements to system data processing for more accurate/timely information. For example, the brand provides prospective clients with specifics on the products that match their individual demands and fitness levels to reduce the amount of support calls made by the sales team.

Unique Features of IS Projects

  • IS (Information Systems) projects have unique aspects that set them apart from other projects.
  • The technological context is constantly changing.
  • It's difficult to hire IS (Information Systems) personnel due to competition for talent.
  • Information systems might be replicated across different parts of multiple organizations and parts of the world.
  • System development methodologies must be integrated with project management frameworks.
  • IS projects often involve new solutions compared to projects with past similarities.
  • Scope creep and unclear requirements are common in IS projects.
  • Technologies are always evolving during a project.
  • Required functionality of software is constantly increasing.
  • The source code is open to potential vulnerabilities.
  • Software is "invisible".
  • Few laws exist in software development.

Project Management Defined

  • The Project Management Institute (PMI) defines project management as applying knowledge, skills, and tools to meet project requirements.
  • PMI's Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) 6th edition (2017) includes 5 process groups and 49 processes within 10 knowledge areas.
  • The five process groups are Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring and Controlling, and Closing.
  • The ten knowledge areas are Project Integration, Scope, Schedule, Cost, Quality, Resource, Communication, Risk, Procurement, and Stakeholder Management.

History of Project Management

  • Some historians trace project management back to ancient Egypt.
  • Modern project management began in the late 1800s. T.D. Judah's 1857, A Practical Plan for Building the Pacific Railroad is an example.
  • Henry Lawrence Gantt developed the Gantt chart in 1917.
  • The Hoover Dam was constructed in 1931.
  • The Manhattan Project occurred in 1942.
  • Three-point estimating and the critical path method (CPM) came about between 1958-1979.
  • Agile methods rose in the 2000s, including the Manifesto for Agile Software Development.
  • Building the Hoover Dam in 1931 required managing materials and human resources, integrating six companies as one contractor while using project planning and control, finishing ahead of time and under budget.
  • The Manhattan Project in 1942 served as the genesis of modern project management; using it to develop an atomic bomb during WWII, and costing $1.8 billion (over $20 billion today).

Work Breakdown Structure

  • WBS (Work Breakdown Structure) is also known as a Gantt chart.

Technology and Project Management

  • Project management information systems in Software Engineering involve a collection of tools (manual and software) to manage projects, including PM software, configuration management systems, code management (e.g., GitHub), collaboration systems, and knowledge bases.
  • Tools exist to support project activities across planning, execution, and control.
  • Tools enable project timelines, cost estimation, and resource allocation.
  • Microsoft Project 2016 offers examples of technology in project management.
  • PM software classifications span from two co-located users to multiple users around the world.
  • PM software can be industry specific, such as Procore for construction or SYMPAZ SQL for government work.
  • Platforms include: Windows, Linux, Apple's Mac OS, or mobile.
  • Tools can range from low-end for small businesses all the way to multiuser-high-end for enterprise.

Skills of a Project Manager

  • Technical skills include: coding, networking, data analytics, data visualization, project tools.
  • Strategic and business management skills span across finance, accounting, purchasing, marketing, contracts, and commercial law.
  • Leadership skills are required include communication, interpersonal skills, negotiation, conflict management, problem-solving, vision, and motivation.

Failures and Successes

  • Common reasons for project failure include incomplete requirements, lack of user involvement, insufficient resources, unrealistic expectations, and a lack of executive support.
  • Factors to project success include project management support, user involvement, optimization, clear business objectives, and skilled resources.

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Project Management - CS 3205 - PDF

Description

Explore the fundamentals of project management in software engineering. Understand project characteristics, management elements, and essential skills for success. Learn why project management is vital for navigating complex projects, with a case study on CitiBank's Big Data Projects.

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