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Advanced Project Management

Project Management

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Jotham Shumba
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
7 views

Advanced Project Management

Project Management

Uploaded by

Jotham Shumba
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Table of Contents

QUESTION 1
Project stakeholder management includes the processes required to identify
the people, groups, or organisations that could impact or could be impacted
by the project. Discuss in detail project stakeholder management.

QUESTION 2
Project communication is the process of communicating information from the
person providing it to the person receiving it through vocal and nonverbal way.
Analyse the project communication plan.

QUESTION 3
3.1 Evaluate why simply identification of project stakeholders is not enough in
order to ultimately engage, manage and control them.

3.2 Explain and identify the role of project artifacts in the above case study.

QUESTION 4
4.1 The role of the stakeholder management in an organisation is important
for increasing productivity and thereby increasing stakeholder flexibility. It will
result in increased customer trustworthiness and obtain a strong reputation
that will increase the competition between other organisations. Provide a
detailed description of the role of Stakeholders in project success.

4.2 Project managers need to build and maintain relationships with various
stakeholders. Identify and discuss the project stakeholders in the above
project.
Question 1

Introduction
Project stakeholder management is a critical aspect of project management
that includes processes for identifying, analysing, and engaging individuals,
groups, or organisations who may influence or be influenced by the project.
The Project Management Institute (PMI) defines it as "the processes required
to identify the people, groups, or organisations that could influence or be
impacted by the project" (PMI, 2017).

Background
In project management, stakeholders are defined as entities with a vested
interest in the project's success. Customers, suppliers, regulatory bodies, and
the general public are examples of external stakeholders, while internal
stakeholders include project team members and sponsors. The management
of these stakeholders is vital as their needs, expectations, and concerns can
significantly influence project outcomes.

Identifying Stakeholders
The first step in project stakeholder management is to identify all potential
stakeholders. This involves a comprehensive approach to recognize those
who may impact or be impacted by the project. Techniques such as
stakeholder registers, brainstorming sessions, and expert judgment are
commonly employed in this phase (Hartley, 2020).

Analysing stakeholders
After identifying stakeholders, the next step is to assess their needs,
expectations, and potential impact on the project. Tools such as
power/interest grids, stakeholder maps, and stakeholder engagement
matrices are utilized to prioritize stakeholders based on their level of influence
and interest in the project (PMI, 2017).

Planning Stakeholder Engagement


After identification and analysis, the project team then develops a Stakeholder
Engagement Plan. This plan outlines strategies to effectively engage with
stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle. It includes details on how to
communicate, involve, and manage stakeholders, taking into account their
preferences and needs (Kerzner & Kerzner, 2017).

Managing Stakeholder Engagement


Controlling Involvement of Stakeholders
During this phase, the Stakeholder Engagement Plan is put into action.
Stakeholder relationships are actively managed by project managers and
teams, who also make sure that regular communication, feedback channels,
and problem solving occur. Project updates, modifications, and possible
hazards are communicated to stakeholders (Hartley, 2020).

Monitoring Stakeholder Engagement


Continuous monitoring of stakeholder engagement levels and satisfaction is
crucial. Project teams monitor stakeholders' growing demands and change
interaction techniques accordingly. This continuing approach helps to
maintain stakeholder support and alignment with project objectives (PMI,
2017).

Project Stakeholder Management's Significance


Stakeholder management in a project is crucial to its success for a number of
reasons. In the first place, it helps with risk management by seeing any
disputes or miscommunications early on. It also helps with resource
allocation, making sure that resources are allocated to the stakeholders who
will have the biggest influence on the project. Thirdly, frequent and
transparent communication with stakeholders increases trust and reduces
miscommunication, which in turn raises the success rates of projects (Kerzner
& Kerzner, 2017).

Conclusion
To sum up, project stakeholder management is an essential process that
encompasses the identification, analysis, planning, management, and
monitoring of stakeholders over the course of the project. Project teams can
effectively manage complexities, reduce risks, and improve communication
and collaboration with stakeholders by implementing these processes. In the
end, this results in higher project success rates and favourable project
outcomes.
Question 2

Introduction
Project communication, which involves the transfer of information from
senders to recipients via a variety of channels, including written, spoken, and
nonverbal means, is an essential component of project management. A
project communication plan is an official document that acts as a guide for
managing, organising, carrying out, and overseeing communication during the
course of the project (PMI, 2017).

As stated by the Project Management Institute (PMI) in 2017, a project


communication plan is "a component of the project management plan that
describes how project communications will be planned, structured,
implemented, and monitored for effectiveness" In order to guarantee that
stakeholders are suitably informed, involved, and in line with the project's
objectives, this plan is crucial.

Examining the Project Communication Plan's Objectives and Purpose:


Encouraging good and efficient communication among stakeholders is the
main goal of a project communication plan. By ensuring that everyone has
access to the appropriate information at the appropriate moment, it seeks to
prevent misunderstandings and encourage cooperation. Among the goals
are: delivering updates on projects, revealing significant turning points, taking
care of worries and problems and making roles and duties clear.

Stakeholder Evaluation: A comprehensive stakeholder study is carried out


prior to creating the communication plan. Identification of all stakeholders and
comprehension of their communication requirements, inclinations, and
degrees of influence are all part of this analysis. Stakeholders are classified
according to their roles within the project, as well as their influence or level of
interest. As an illustration: internal parties involved, like sponsors and
members of the project team and external parties include clients, vendors,
and authorities.
Communication Channels: The communication plan outlines the several
channels that will be used to spread information about the project. These
outlets may consist of:

Meetings: Stakeholder, team, and status update meetings on a regular basis.


Emails: For official correspondence, notifications, and fast updates.
Reports: Comprehensive status, progress, and analysis reports for projects.
Presentations: Official presentations made to sponsors, management, and
stakeholders.
Project Management Software: Web-based tools for document exchange,
progress monitoring, and teamwork.

Depending on the stakeholders' interests and the type of information, many


routes are selected. For example, comprehensive technical updates could be
more appropriate for project reports, but brief status updates could be sent by
email.

Frequency and Timing: It is critical to decide when and how frequently


communication will take place during the project lifecycle. The communication
strategy specifies how frequently different communication activities, like these,
will occur: status updates every week , progress reports every month ,twice-
weekly team gatherings,and reviews of stakeholders every three months

In order to make sure that these messages coincide with important project
deliverables, events, and milestones, scheduling is also taken into account.

Content and Format


What information will be shared and in what format is specified in the
communication plan. This comprises:

Report Templates: standardised forms for status updates, progress reports,


and presentations.
Presentation Guidelines: guidelines for making engaging and educational
presentations.
Standard formats for status updates: Various templates for delivering succinct
updates on the status of a project.

All project communications may be kept consistent and clear by following


clear criteria for both content and format.

Roles and Responsibilities


The strategy outlines roles and responsibilities for communication in detail.
This guarantees that all project participants are aware of who is in charge of
transmitting, receiving, and interpreting project information. Important roles
consist of:

Project Manager: In charge of coordination, monitoring, and overall


communication plan.
Project Team Members: Members of the project team are in charge of giving
updates, showing up to meetings, and helping out with communications.
Stakeholders: In charge of offering suggestions, showing up to meetings, and
keeping track on the status of the project.

Escalation Procedures
The communication strategy provides methods for escalation in the event of
disagreements or breakdowns in communication. This guarantees that in the
event of problems, there is a well-defined procedure for effectively resolving
them. Escalation protocols could consist of: getting in touch with senior
management, calling an Extraordinary Meeting and using an impartial
mediator.

Importance of the Project Communication Plan


A project communication plan that is well-developed is essential for a number
of reasons:

Clarity and Understanding: It guarantees that all project participants are aware
of their responsibilities in terms of communication and what is expected of
them.
Alignment: By assisting stakeholders with project goals, objectives, and
expectations, the plan lowers the possibility of miscommunication or
competing priorities.
Efficiency: The strategy increases the effectiveness and efficiency of
communication by defining the channels, frequency, and substance of
communication.
Risk Mitigation: Since problems are more likely to be brought up and dealt
with quickly when there is clear communication, risks are identified and
mitigated early on.

Conclusion

In summary, a project communication strategy is an essential instrument in


project management that guarantees stakeholders are aware of, involved in,
and in agreement with the project at all stages of its lifetime. The strategy
makes efficient and effective communication possible by defining roles and
duties, defining communication channels, analysing stakeholders, and
describing escalation procedures. In the end, a successful communication
plan makes a big difference in the outcome of the project.
Question 3

3.1

Introduction
While recognising project stakeholders is a necessary initial step, it is
insufficient to successfully manage, engage, and control them over the course
of the project. Stakeholder identification gives you a basic idea of the
stakeholders' identities, responsibilities, and possible effects on the project.
But project management takes more than just identification; it requires a more
thorough approach to be successful.

Insufficiency of Identification Alone


Limited Understanding: Identification does not offer a thorough
comprehension of the goals, expectations, and interests of stakeholders.
Effective stakeholder engagement is difficult without this knowledge
(ProjectManagement.com, 2020).

Dynamic Nature of Projects: Projects are dynamic in nature, with changing


stakeholder needs, risks, and requirements. Stakeholders' interests and
changes may not be fully captured by just identifying them at the start of a
project (Hartley, 2020).

Differentiated Levels of Influence: Not every stakeholder is equally interested


in the project or has the same amount of influence. Identification can not
distinguish between stakeholders with little influence and those who are
crucial decision-makers (PMI, 2017).

Complex Relationships: It's common for stakeholders to have intricate ties


with one another that go beyond simple identification. For example, the
decisions or actions of one stakeholder may have unanticipated effects on
others (PMI, 2017).
Engagement, Management, and Control: Stakeholders must be actively
involved, consulted, and informed throughout the project for effective
engagement to take place. This increases project support, encourages buy-in
from stakeholders, and lessens resistance to change (Hartley, 2020).

Management: Handling concerns, striking a balance between divergent


interests, and customising communication are all parts of stakeholder
management. Managing expectations and preserving good relationships take
constant work (PMI, 2017).
Control: In the absence of control measures, stakeholders could suggest
scope adjustments or stray from the project's objectives. Control makes
ensuring that the goals of the project are met within the predetermined
parameters (ProjectManagement.com, 2020).

Strategies Beyond Identification


Stakeholder Analysis
Depth of Understanding: The analysis explores the requirements,
anticipations, and degrees of impact of the stakeholders. It offers perceptions
into their worries, priorities, and possible effects on the project.

Prioritisation: Stakeholders can be ranked according to their degree of interest


and impact through analysis. This facilitates concentrating resources on the
important parties that most affect the outcome of the project (PMI, 2017).

Stakeholder Engagement Plan


Tailored Communication: How to interact with each stakeholder is outlined in
a stakeholder engagement plan. According to the preferences of
stakeholders, it comprises plans for communication channels, frequency, and
content (ProjectManagement.com, 2020).

Involvement Strategies: The strategy outlines how stakeholders will


participate in project activities, input gathering, and decision-making. It
guarantees that their opinions are taken into consideration (Hartley, 2020).
Communication Strategies
Two-Way Communication: Good communication involves listening to the
opinions and concerns of stakeholders as well as providing messages. It
promotes openness and trust (PMI, 2017).

Unambiguous Expectations: Communication tactics make project goals,


deadlines, and deliverables clear. By doing so, miscommunications are
decreased and stakeholder expectations are managed (Hartley, 2020).

Conclusion
To sum up, while identifying project stakeholders is an important first step,
successful project management requires more than just this. A more all-
encompassing strategy is needed to effectively manage, control, and involve
stakeholders. A stakeholder engagement plan and customised
communication tactics guarantee active involvement and support throughout
the project, while stakeholder analysis offers a deeper understanding. In the
end, these tactics help projects succeed by coordinating stakeholder interests
with project objectives.

3.2
In the case study of Marty, project artefacts are quite important, especially
when it comes to his communication and stakeholder management.
Throughout the course of a project, these artefacts function as concrete
results and instruments that support stakeholder identification, analysis,
engagement, and management.

Stakeholder Management Artifacts


Stakeholder Registers: These are crucial documents that are used in the
project's early phases to list and identify all possible stakeholders.
Stakeholder registrations aid Marty in comprehending the wide range of
participants in the project, from consultants and junior employees to
government politicians (PMI, 2017).
Stakeholder Analysis Matrices: To comprehend the roles, degrees of
involvement, influence, and interests of stakeholders, Marty makes use of
stakeholder analysis techniques. These matrices, which are frequently in the
shape of grids or charts, give Marty a visual depiction of the characteristics of
stakeholders and help with engagement strategy and prioritisation (PMI,
2017).

Communication Planning Artifacts


Communication Plan: Marty creates a plan outlining the management and
execution of communication as a project artefact. This plan outlines tactics for
interacting with stakeholders, choosing channels of communication, defining
roles and duties, and defining the content and format of messages (PMI,
2017).

Stakeholder Engagement Plan: A vital document that describes how Marty will
communicate with different stakeholders, the stakeholder engagement plan is
a component of the communication strategy. It contains methods for getting
input from stakeholders, including them in decision-making, and making sure
their requirements are met (Hartley, 2020).

Project Artifacts in Action


Recording Stakeholder Information: Marty keeps track of information
regarding each stakeholder using these artefacts. The stakeholder register,
for instance, records the contact details, roles, and identities of stakeholders.
As a result, Marty can create an extensive database of interested parties
(Hartley, 2020).

Examining Stakeholder Features: Marty is able to examine the features of


stakeholders, including their degree of interest and influence, thanks to the
stakeholder analysis matrices. Marty uses this information as a guide when
developing engagement and communication plans for various stakeholder
groups (PMI, 2017).

Organising Communication Activities: Marty uses the communication plan as


a guide to organise and plan communication activities. It outlines the timing
and mode of communication, guaranteeing that stakeholders are informed in
a timely manner and with pertinent information (PMI, 2017).

Putting Engagement Strategies into Practice: Marty uses the stakeholder


engagement plan to put particular strategies into practice in order to
effectively engage stakeholders. This could entail having frequent meetings,
giving updates on developments, and getting feedback on important choices
(Hartley, 2020).

Importance of Project Artifacts


Clarity and Organisation: Stakeholder management and communication
planning are made easier with the use of project artefacts, which offer an
ordered and structured approach. They make sure Marty is aware of all the
stakeholders and what they need.

Efficiency: Marty can gather, analyse, and engage with stakeholders more
effectively since he has predetermined templates and plans. This reduces the
time and work required to handle project communications.

Consistency: Marty's interactions with stakeholders are made more consistent


by artefacts like communication strategies and stakeholder registries. Among
stakeholders, this consistency fosters dependability and confidence (PMI,
2017).

Risk Mitigation: Marty is able to identify any risks associated with stakeholder
management and communication by using project artefacts. Marty can
proactively address problems and reduce risks by having thorough plans and
analysis (Hartley, 2020).

Conclusion
Project artefacts like analytical matrices, communication plans, stakeholder
engagement plans, and stakeholder registers are crucial in the Marty case
study. Marty has the resources he needs to locate stakeholders, evaluate
their qualities, organise outreach initiatives, and successfully involve
stakeholders thanks to these artefacts. Through the utilisation of these
artefacts, Marty is able to effectively navigate the intricate network of project
stakeholders and guarantee that communication is methodical, effective, and
in line with project goals.
Question 4

4.1

Introduction

In an organisation, stakeholders are essential to the success of projects. Their


participation, encouragement, and engagement can have a big impact on the
results of projects, output, flexibility of stakeholders, dependability of
customers, and general reputation of the company. This essay is a thorough
explanation of how stakeholders contribute to the success of a project.

Support and Resources


Financial Support: The funds required to launch and maintain the project are
provided by stakeholders, especially sponsors and investors. For the purpose
of hiring staff, purchasing supplies, and paying operating expenses, this
money is essential (Cleland & Ireland, 2006).

Human Resources: Members of the project team who provide their abilities,
know-how, and proficiency to project duties are considered stakeholders.
Their dedication and participation have a direct impact on the success and
advancement of the project (PMI, 2017).

Expertise and Guidance: Specialist knowledge and guidance are brought by


external stakeholders including advisors, consultants, and subject matter
experts (SMEs). Their advice is helpful in reducing risks, increasing project
outcomes, and making well-informed decisions (Hartley, 2020).

Engagement and Communication


Clear Communication: Project goals, expectations, and progress are all made
clear when there is effective communication with stakeholders. Stakeholders
are informed and involved when there are frequent updates and feedback
channels (PMI, 2017).

Stakeholder Involvement: Involving stakeholders in the planning, decision-


making, and feedback processes of a project helps them feel more invested in
it. Stakeholders are more likely to support the project and its goals when they
feel included (Hartley, 2020).

Conformity to Goals
Shared Vision: The success of a project depends on the alignment of
stakeholders with its aims. Stakeholders are more likely to contribute to the
success of the project when they are aware of and supportive of its vision and
objectives (PMI, 2017).

Managing Stakeholder Interests: Various stakeholders with a range of


interests are frequently involved in projects. In order to achieve a balance that
advances the project's overall goals, project managers must manage various
interests (Cleland & Ireland, 2006).

Risk Management
Risk Identification: Early in the project lifecycle, stakeholders can assist in
identifying potential risks and obstacles due to their varied viewpoints. The
development and application of risk mitigation measures is made possible by
this proactive approach (Hartley, 2020).

Mitigating Conflicts: Divergent priorities or interests may exist amongst


stakeholders. In order to maintain project progress, effective stakeholder
management entails settling disputes and coming to compromises (PMI,
2017).

Customer Trust and Reputation


Customer Satisfaction: Stakeholder participation has a direct bearing on
customer satisfaction for projects involving external clients or customers.
Delivering goods or services that live up to client expectations is made
possible by engaged stakeholders (Cleland & Ireland, 2006).

Reputation Building: An organization's good reputation is a result of its history


of completed initiatives that have pleased stakeholders. An organization's
competitive advantage grows when it has a great reputation since it draws in
additional partners, consumers, and investors (Hartley, 2020).

Adaptability and Flexibility


Adaptation to Change: Projects can be more flexible and adaptive to required
changes, market conditions, or unanticipated obstacles when stakeholders
are involved. Stakeholders can offer insightful opinions and recommendations
for improvements (PMI, 2017).

Support for Innovation: Involved and encouraging stakeholders are more


inclined to welcome novel concepts and adjustments. As a result, the
organisation develops an innovative culture that improves project outcomes
(Cleland & Ireland, 2006).

Conclusion

To sum up, stakeholders have a variety of roles to play in an organization's


initiatives' success. The success of the project is largely down to their
involvement, support, alignment with goals, contributions to risk management,
influence on customer trust and reputation, and role in encouraging flexibility.
To fully realise these advantages and make sure that initiatives accomplish
their intended objectives, effective stakeholder management is essential.

4.2

The project in Marty's case study is related to his position as the leader of a
policy unit within the state government. Different stakeholders are identified as
he gets ready for his project, which involves interacting with them for a good
conclusion. The project stakeholders in Marty's case are covered in this
essay.

Government Ministers
Ministers of government are important stakeholders because they have the
ability and power to make decisions. Their backing is essential to the project's
success because they set the direction and approve policies. In order to get
their support, make sure the project complies with political standards, and
match project goals with governmental directives, Marty must interact with
them.

Advisors
Advisors to government ministers are crucial in offering professional counsel
and direction. They aid in the creation of strategies and policies. To make
sure that the project is in line with policy aims and gets the support it needs,
Marty has to collaborate closely with them.

Governance Committee
Senior officials and specialists in charge of managing the project's
governance structure probably make up the governance committee. They
evaluate risks, keep an eye on the status of the project, and offer strategic
guidance. In order to get permissions, make sure that policies are followed,
and handle any governance-related concerns, Marty must interact with the
governance committee.

Project Board
Senior stakeholders that oversee and offer guidance on the project's progress
make up the project board. They could consist of executives, project
sponsors, and high-ranking government officials. Marty must routinely report
to the project board on his progress, get their permission for important
choices, and respond to any worries they may have.

Department Heads Across the State


Representatives of many state government departments and agencies,
including department heads, are involved parties. They can have particular
needs, resources, or limitations that affect the project. To maintain
coordination, secure the required resources, and handle any department-
specific problems, Marty must work with them.

Industry Bodies
Industry associations stand in for external parties from pertinent, project-
affected industries. These could be advocacy groups, corporate associations,
or trade associations. Marty must interact with industry associations in order
to learn about industry viewpoints, get feedback, and handle issues or effects
unique to the sector.

Senior Managers
Stakeholders include senior managers from Marty's own company, the state
government policy section. They offer direction and leadership to the group.
Marty is responsible for keeping them updated, getting permissions as
needed, and coordinating the project with the strategic objectives of the unit.

Consultants
These outside parties could offer specific knowledge or assistance for the
project. Marty must oversee the relationships with consultants, clearly define
their duties, and make sure their contributions support the goals of the project.

Subject Matter Experts (SMEs)


Subject Matter Experts are those having specific knowledge that is pertinent
to the undertaking. These stakeholders could be external or internal. Marty
must enlist the help of SMEs in order to benefit from their knowledge, get
information, and apply their suggestions to the project.

Junior Staff from Different Departments


Junior employees from different departments are also stakeholders since they
could be impacted by project outcomes or participate in its execution. Marty is
responsible for making sure junior employees are aware of the project, know
what their responsibilities are, and receive the assistance and training they
require.

Conclusion
The stakeholders in Marty's project are varied and comprise government
ministers, advisors, members of the governance committee, the project board,
department heads, business associations, senior managers, consultants,
small and medium-sized enterprises, and junior employees. Building and
sustaining connections with these stakeholders, learning about their needs
and interests, communicating clearly, and guaranteeing their involvement and
support for the project's success are all essential components of good
stakeholder management.
References

Cleland, D., & Ireland, L. (2006). Project Management: Strategic Design and
Implementation. McGraw-Hill Professional.

Hartley, S. (2020). Project management: A practical guide to planning and


managing projects (4th ed.).

Kerzner, H., & Kerzner, H. R. (2017). Project Management: A Systems


Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling (12th ed.).

Project Management Institute (PMI). (2017). A Guide to the Project


Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide) - Sixth Edition.

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