Hello, this module focuses on how to manage projects in a complicated world. The world is changing rapidly and in unpredictable ways. Just consider the changes caused by new technology, worldwide trade and competition, social and political disturbances, and the environmental emergency.
You might think that project management has little to do with these major global matters. However, all kinds of organizations, whether large or small, are impacted by the world they operate in. How a company understands and responds to this complexity influences the projects it chooses to undertake and how it handles them.
This week, we begin by examining frameworks that help us grasp this intricate world. These frameworks guide our actions, responses, and decision-making in the face of complexity.
Next, we delve deeply into various methods and practices for managing projects when faced with uncertainty, instability, and change. These methods include linear approaches and life cycles, often known as the waterfall method, as well as iterative or agile approaches. You will explore the pros and cons of these methods, as well as the ongoing debates about them.
By the end, you’ll grasp how to use and blend these methods effectively to achieve successful project outcomes.
To start off this week, we’re interested in hearing about your experiences. Considering those major global issues like technology, competition, social and political changes, and environmental problems, think about how they impact your organization and the projects you’re involved in.
Feel free to share your experiences with fellow learners in the discussion.
Technology has impacted my organization positively in that clients residing in remote places or geriatrics without a caregiver can now fill their prescriptions, get counselling and monitored for adherence electronically through a medium known as Telepharmacy
However, environmental crisis have impacted health and quality of life.
Social and political issues are not left out, with the rising cases of mental health being distorted, depression.
Technological advancement have created job opportunities for my colleagues to work both remotely and on site
Technology has positively affected my organization. We have moved to more efficient ways of doing carrying out tasks and projects. More effective and faster ways of communication. However, there are anticipated challenges created by these improved technologies as well which of course are under effective control
The advancement of technology has helped improve how project are monitored and advanced. Technology also help manage time wel in execution of projects.Economic and environmental factors too .A lot of projects are facing financial difficulties in order to execute their projects
The world currently is experiencing information overload, through Technology, Social Media , strong competition, environmental interference s etc. Thereby, eaving organisation to carve their niche by thinking outside the box and developing a Unique Selling Point to stand out. However, organizations should develop problem solving ideas as well as maintaining creativity and Innovation to withstand waterfalls amidst competition .This sustains organisational relevance and preference.
The global drive toward a sustainable future has greatly affected how we undertake our projects, in the construction sector. We take into consideration the impact of our project within the environment, from the sourcing and raw materials employed to the processes engaged in their transformation
Several factors such as environmental, technological and political factors has affected a whole lot of project over the year.
Political factor has affected so many project because of change of power. Once power changes existing government tends to abandon development project of the their predecessor.
Technological factor has affected projects where incompetent project manager or engineer is used to overseer the affair of a project work.
Technological advancement has continuously being a blessing to my organisation and profession. It has helped to increase the efficiency of the Healthcare workers as well as reducing mortality rate.
Frequent change in government, also has influence on us as it has often led to changes in policies which can sometimes be advantageous and sometimes detrimental to us.
How does the scenario in the video compare with your experience?
I am currently on multiple projects. This is because my company is trying to maximise personal due to financial challenges. This means that some disciplines don’t turn out deliverables as at when due. Management decided to hold project review session every 2 weeks with the aim of re-directing disciplines delaying the actualisation of a particular milestone to focus on them
How does the stated example compare to your experience?
Compared to my experience on projects, needs arises during a project that necessitates scope creep due to changing demand or recent development or regulation
Some projects I have worked on fall under both categories
1. Linear approach: this can be seen in lump sum projects where the number of deliverables are fixed and the master document register frozen from the beginning of the project. This project must be completed within the specified time.
2. Iterative approach: this can be seen in projects where workers on the project bill per hour and timesheets are filled. This projects are usually expected to be completed within a time frame and can exceed it depending on the need to expand the scope or introduce more deliverables
Political and social change has been a major factor affecting my organization(business). The price of buying goods for sale has become unbearabe that we sell with very little profit in order not to sell at a very high price.