ALLAMA IQBAL OPEN UNIVERSITY, ISLAMABAD

(Commonwealth MBA/MPA Programme)

PROJECT MANAGEMENT (5577)

CHECK LIST
SEMESTER: SPRING, 2015
This packet comprises the following material:1.
2.
3.
4.

Text Books
Assignment No. 1, 2
Assignment Forms (two sets)
Course Outline

In this packet, if you find anything missing out of the above mentioned material, please
contact at the address given below:
Mailing Officer
Mailing Section, Block No. 28
Allama Iqbal Open University
H-8, Islamabad.
Phone: 051-9057611-12

Dr. Muhammad Majid Mahmood

Course Coordinator

ALLAMA IQBAL OPEN UNIVERSITY, ISLAMABAD

(Commonwealth MBA/MPA Programme)
WARNING
1.
2.

PLAGIARISM OR HIRING OF GHOST WRITER(S) FOR SOLVING

THE ASSIGNMENT(S) WILL DEBAR THE STUDENT FROM AWARD
OF DEGREE/CERTIFICATE, IF FOUND AT ANY STAGE.
SUBMITTING ASSIGNMENTS BORROWED OR STOLEN FROM
OTHER(S) AS ONES OWN WILL BE PENALIZED AS DEFINED IN
AIOU PLAGIARISM POLICY.

Course: Project Management (5577)

Level: Executive MBA/MPA

Semester: Spring, 2015

Total Marks: 100

Instructions
(a) All written assignment must be well organized, presented in an easy-to-read format and
neat. Moreover, pay particularly close attention to grammar, spelling, punctuation and
understandability. Communication is extremely important in this course.
(b) Documentation is likewise very important. Un-supported statements or opinions
are worth less to the reader, who desires to verify your finding. Complete and
specific documentation is mandatory. Also, your references should be to primary
sources, except in rare unusual situation.
(c) Quoting should be kept to an absolute minimum.
Guidelines for Doing Assignments
We expect you to answer each question as per instructions in the assignment. You will
find it useful to keep the following points in mind:
1)
Planning: Read the assignments carefully, go through the Units on which they are
based. Make some points regarding each question and then rearrange them in a
logical order.
2)
Organization: Be a little selective and analytical before drawing up a rough
outline of your answer. Give adequate attention to questions introduction and
conclusion.
Make sure that:
a)
The answer is logical and coherent,
b)
It has clear connections between sentences and paragraphs,
c)
The presentation is correct in your own expression and style.
3)
Presentation: Once you are satisfied with your answer, you can write down the
final version for submission. It is mandatory to write all assignments neatly. If you
desire so, you may underline the points you wish to emphasize. Make sure that the
answer is within the stipulated word limit.

ASSIGNMENT No. 1
Total Marks: 100
Q. 1 What are the salient aspects of a typical project? Discuss important issues that
managers must consider while conducting project analysis.
(20)
Q. 2 Technology and processes play crucial role in certain projects. What are the key
issues with regards to choice of technology, equipment and processes at the stage
of formulation of projects?
(20)
Q. 3 What are the objectives of project management information systems? What are the
types of data sets used in integrated project management information system?
Discuss briefly how these date sets are used for decision making?
(20)
Q. 4 Write short notes on the following:
a)
CPM Vs. PERT technique
b)
Matrix organization
c)
Financing of project

(6+7+7)

Q. 5 A project is different from routine and regular activities. Draw a list of

characteristics and distringuish the projects from other activities with examples.
(20)

ASSIGNMENT No. 2
Total Marks: 100
Instructions:
1.
This assignment is a research-oriented activity. You are required to develop a case
study and submit to the tutor for evaluation prior to the final examination. The last
date of this assignment will be notified separately by our directorate of regional
services and the same will be communicated to you directly as well as through
approved study centers assigned to you.
2.
You will have to participate in the activity fully, actively and practically to be eligible
to sit in the final examination of the course.
3. For the preparation of this assignment, you should first thoroughly review the Case
Study Guidelines and develop a scholarly material of the same giving references,
quotations, and extracts of various scholars and experts. Then visit any
business/commercial organization and study the relevant practical aspects there.
Combining the theoretical and practical aspects, develop a comprehensive case
study of 1500-3000 typed words to be submitted to your tutor.
4. Prepare a copy of this assignment and submit to your tutor for your evaluation.
5. You should prepare the transparencies, charts, or any other illustrative material for
effective presentation.
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6. If you fail to present this assignment in the class, then you will not be able to sit in
the final examination conducted by AIOU.
Requirement:
You are required to select an organization of your own choice, find out the problematic
situation or dilemma relevant to your subject in that organization, which may be current
or happened in past. After highlighting the problem, design a case study upon the
dilemma of that organization. Guidelines to design case study are attached herewith.
Read carefully the guidelines and formulate case study strictly following these.
Guidelines to Develop a Case Study
What a Case study is?
A case study is written summary or syntheses of real-life cases based upon data and
research. It suggests a story with a beginning, middle and end. It is a challenge with a
result or a problem with a solution. Approach to design case study is:

Challenge

Solution

Result
Case studies identify appropriate strategies for the resolution of dilemma of the case.
Case study is a part of effective knowledge management. It is specific and easily
digestible story format which comes up with a solution. Case study is the practical
implication of business studies. It enriches your exposure to field work and your
managerial and executive expertise to handle organizational issues.
Business case study
To summarize real-life business scenarios, a problem occurring in organizational setup or
a dilemmatic situation, leading to operational misconduct and inefficiency in
organizations is business case study. The issue may be from any field like finance, HRM,
Management, Strategic Management, Production, Marketing, and General Operations etc.
Case Study Layout

Title page

Abstract

Introduction

Major characters

Company/organizational background

Industry profile/context

Dilemma of case/storyline/Case presentation

Management Outcome

Conclusion

Discussion

Exhibits
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Acknowledgement
References

Title page:
The title page will contain the full title of the case study. A title must not be vague or
non-specific because it may not attract readers attention. The two most common formats
of titles are nominal and compound. A nominal title is a single phrase, for example A
case study of hypertension which responded to spinal manipulation. A compound title
consists of two phrases in succession, for example Response of hypertension to spinal
manipulation: a case study. Keep in mind that title of articles average between 8 and 9
words in length.
Abstract:
An abstract consists of a short version of the whole paper. There are no headings within
the abstract. The author simply tries to summarize the paper into a story which flows
logically.
Introduction:
The introduction is where we convey case study to the reader. It is useful to begin by
placing the study in a historical or social context. If there is something especially
challenging about the diagnosis or management of the condition that we are describing,
now is our chance to bring that out. Introduction doesnt need to be more than a few
paragraphs long, and the objective is to have the reader understand clearly, but in a
general sense, why it is useful for them to be reading about this case. Avoid using jargons
specifically in introduction. Introduction should create a dramatic interest.
Major characters
In the case there are assumed characters around whom the whole story revolves.
Dilemma is made easy to understand through these characters. Select your characters
with their names and designations.
Company/organizational background
Reporting of background should be very selective. It is not the history of whole organization
but a history that relates to the problem or decision. Avoid evaluating or misleading
descriptions. Information about the organization should shed light on the problem.
Industry profile/context
Industry profile gives the details of the context within which the organization operates
with pressures, threats, laws, information on competitors and other external factors that
impact the organization.
Case Dilemma/Storyline/Presentation:
This is the part of the case in which we introduce the raw data. First, describe the complaint
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that brought the situation to you. Next, introduce the important information that is obtained
from history-taking. There is no need to include every detail just the information that
helped to settle on diagnosis. Also, try to present dilemma information in a narrative form
full sentences which efficiently summarize the results of questioning. The next step is to
describe the results of our clinical examination. Again, we should write in an efficient
narrative style, restricting ourselves to the relevant information. It is not necessary to
include every detail in our clinical notes. Also, you should describe the actual results, since
not all readers will have the same understanding of what constitutes a positive or
negative result. Dilemma is the main problem or the main motive to write up a case so it
should be logical, clearly narrated, well structured and very near to reality.
It must not be self created or assumption based. The case must realistically grapple with
the problem and appreciate the complexity of decision making in the real world. It is also
important that case does not contain holes that are manipulative and that lead readers to
feel that games are being played with them. A balance must be attained between giving
enough material to make informed choice or decisions, but not so much material that the
answer is given away.
Management and Outcome:
In this section, we should clearly describe the plan for settlement of the situation, and the
outcome. It is useful for the reader to know what type of remedial actions have been
taken. Additionally, you should be as specific as possible in describing the remedial
action that was used. If some techniques have been used you are required to elaborate
clearly those techniques. Remember that our case study may be read by people who are
not familiar with managerial techniques.
Conclusion
Here the problem and options for consideration are restated but the decision point is open
for students to resolve. The case should never end with a yes or no or right or
wrong answer. The conclusion should create tension and suggest options for the readers.
Successful cases have no definite conclusions.
Discussion:
In this section identify any questions that the case raises. It is not compulsory to provide
a complete physiological explanation for everything that is observed. We summarize the
lessons learned from this case.
Exhibits:
If you have used any tables, figures or photographs, they should be accompanied by a
succinct explanation. Tables, figures and photographs should be included at the end of the
case. Exhibits are the supporting supplementary material of the data given in the whole case
study. The purpose of each exhibit should be very clear. If an exhibit has been used in the
case, it should be very simple and clear. These are used to simplify and clarify the text of the
case and to help with resolution of dilemma and the making of decision.
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Acknowledgments:
If someone provided assistance with the preparation of the case study, thank them briefly.
It would generally be regarded as excessive and inappropriate to thank others, such as
teachers or colleagues who did not directly participate in preparation of the case.
References:
Only use references that you have read and understood, and actually used to support the
case study. Do not use more than approximately 15 references without some clear
justification. Try to avoid using textbooks as references, since it is assumed that most
readers would already have this information. Also, do not refer to personal
communication, since there is no way of checking this information.
Types of case study
Types on the basis of structure

Open ended case study

The case studies having no questions at the end are open ended case studies. These
case studies are end up with a tense situation for readers. Readers themselves draw
the questions and find solution to dilemma.

Close ended case study

The case studies ending up with questions are close ended case studies. These are
the most common types of case studies. These are easy to find solution for readers.
The questions are drawn on the basis of dilemma and storyline of case.
Types on the basis of subject matter
Exploratory case study
An exploratory case study is the type of case study where the researchers or case study
designer wants to explore some unexplored. Where considerable uncertainty exists about
program operations, goals, and results, the exploratory case study is designed to identify
questions, select measurement constructs, and develop measures.
Program implementation case study
A program implementation case study helps discern whether implementation complies
with intent. This case study may also prove useful when concern exists about
implementation problems. Extensive, longitudinal reports of what has happened over
time can set a context for interpreting a finding of implementation variability.
Program effects case study
Program effects case studies can determine the impact of programs and provide
inferences about reasons for success or failure. As with the program implementation case
study, the evaluation questions usually require generalizability and, for a highly diverse
program, it may become difficult to answer the questions adequately and retain a
manageable number of sites. But methodological solutions to this problem exist. After
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identifying findings of specific interest, researchers may then implement case studies in
selected sites to maximize the usefulness of the information.
Company field cases
These cases are developed in cooperation with the participating company, have company
approval and are the most common types of cases.
Individual field cases
These cases focus upon specific individuals e.g. role of a woman in NGO leadership.
General experience cases
These cases are written on the basis of case writers knowledge, a story is invented.
Generally these cases are simple. Complex cases demand a real organization.
Published information cases
These cases are derived from published sources such as newspapers, research reports,
journals etc. and as such, must contain extensive footnotes. It must be made clear that
such cases have been written up based on published sources. In these cases there is no
need for company release.
There are many other types of case studies in practice. You can work any of them but
your work should be very logical and well structured. Nothing must be vague leading to
wastage of time and efforts.
Important Points

Write in past tense

Direct quotes are written in present tense

Avoid jargon

Logically structured

Free of grammatical errors

Define technical terms if not common

Avoid adjectives and adverbs

Avoid ambiguities and inconsistencies

Refer to actors by last name consistently

Do not capitalize position titles

Number all exhibits and refer to them in text

Writing should be clear, concise and accessible.

Cases should be between 1500-3000 words in length.

Important Note
You are advised to structure your case study in close ended structure having questions at
the end.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT (5577)

COURSE OUTLINE
BLOCK 1: INTRODUCTION TO PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND PROJECT
INTEGRATION MANAGEMENT
Introduction
Project Definition
International Standards and Guidelines
Project Management Processes
Project vs. Product Life Cycles
Value of Project Management
How Project Management Relates to Other Disciplines
The Project Management Profession
Understanding Organization
The Importance of Project Stakeholders
Stakeholder Analysis
Techno-economic Feasibility Analysis
Technical Feasibility Analysis
Economic and Fianancial Feasibility Analysis
Project Management Skill Set
Project Integration Management
The Project Plan
Project Plan Execution
Project Execution Tools and Techniques
Project Management Software
Status Review Meetings
Work Authorization Systems
Overall Change Control
Change Control System
BLOCK 2: SCOPE AND TIME MANAGEMENT
Introduction
Required Reading
Project Planning
Project Definition
Triple Constraints
Scope Management
Project Selection
The Analysis Approach
Financial Models
Project Charters
Scope Planning
The Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)
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Scope Change Control

Project Time Management
Schedule Development Tools
Network Diagram
Activity Duration Estimating
Schedule Development
Gantt Charts
Critical Path Analysis
Techniques for Shortening a Project Schedule
PERT Program Evaluation and Review Technique
Controlling changes to the Project Schedule
Software to Assist in Project Time Management

BLOCK 3: COST AND QUALITY MANAGEMENT

Introduciton
Required Reading
Project Cost Management
The Importance of Project Cost Management
Principles of Cost Management
Resource Planning
Project Calendars
Definitions (durations)
Task Durations
Acquiring Resources
Functional
Project
Matrix
Cost Estimating
Cost Budgeting
Cost Control
Earned Value Analysis (EVA)
Other Earned Value Calculations - Variance and Performance Indices
Time and Cost Projection Calculations
Project Quality Management
Modern Quality Management
Quality Assurance
Quality control
Tools and Techniques for Quality Control
Statistical Sampling and Standard Deviation
Information Technology Project Testing
Improving Technology Project Quality
Leadership
Cost of Quality
Organizational Influences
Maturity Models
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BLOCK 4: HUMAN RESOURCE AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGEMENT

Introduction
Project Human Resource Management
People Management Skills
Motivation Theories
Influence and Power
Effectiveness
Organization Planning
Staffing Management Plan
Staff Acquisition
Resource Loading and Leveling
Team Development
Reward and Recognition Systems
Suggestions for Team Development
using MS Project for Project HR Management
Project Communications Management
Communication Management An Overview
Communications Planning
Infromation Distribution
Determining Communications Complexity
Performance Reporting
Administrative Closure
Suggestions for Improving Project Communications
Using Software to Assist in Project Communications
BLOCK 5: PROJECT RISK MANAGEMENT AND PROCUREMENT
MANAGEMENT
Introduction
Required Reading
Project Risk Management
Project Risk Management Defined
The Nature of Risk
The Role of Risk Management in a Project
Risk and the Project Life Cycle
The Risk Management Porcess
Sources of Risks in Projects
Risk Identification
Risk qualitative and Quantification Assessments
Risk Response Development
Risk Management Plans, Contingency Plans and Contigency Reserves
Risk Response Control
Using Software to Assist in Project Risk Management
Project Procurement Management
Procurement Planning
Procurement Planning Tools and Techniques
Types of Contracts
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Solicitation Planning
Solicitation
Source Selection
Contract Administration
Contract Close-Out

BLOCK 6: THE PROJECT MANAGEMENT PROCESS MODEL

Introduction
The Project Management Process Model
Project Initiation
Project Initiation Documents
Project Planning
Core Processes
Facilitating Processes
Project Charters
Charter Business Definition
Charter Project Workbook
Project Charter Assembly and Approval
Project Execution
Project Execution Knowledge Areas
Project Execution Processes
Project Execution Outputs
Project Execution Critical Success Factors
Project Controlling Processes
Scope Creep and Change Control
Project Closing Processes
Project Wrap-Up
Deliver the Final Results
Address Outstanding Issues
De-assign Project Resources
Tidy up the Project Environment
Conduct a Post-Project Evaluation
Comparing Reality to Commitment
Identify Lessons Learned
The Balanced Scorecard
Refine the Project Management Process
BLOCK 7: PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
Introduction
Portfolio Management
Managing Multiple Projects

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