PRO4801
Assignment 3 2025
Unique #:
Due Date: August 2025
Detailed solutions, explanations, workings
and references.
+27 81 278 3372
, QUESTION 1
The project planning process is an essential phase that sets the foundation for
successful project execution. As Nicholas and Steyn (2021) explain, this process
involves a structured approach aimed at determining what needs to be done, how it
should be done, who should do it, when it should be done, how much it will cost, and
how progress will be monitored. The purpose of each step in this process is to
answer specific questions that reduce uncertainty and guide the project team. In the
case of the ABC project, these steps were not properly implemented, leading to
avoidable challenges. Below is an explanation of the key steps in the planning
process and the critical questions they address.
Step 1: Define the Desired End Result
The first step in planning is to define the project’s objectives, scope, and system
requirements. This step answers the question, “What is the desired end result?”
According to Nicholas and Steyn (2021), this involves clearly identifying what the
project must deliver, such as products, services, or outcomes. The scope defines the
boundaries of the project, including what is included and what is excluded. Properly
defining this early on helps to avoid scope creep and ensures that all stakeholders
share a common understanding of what the project will achieve. System
requirements ensure the outputs meet technical standards or customer needs.
Without this clarity, the project team risks working towards goals that are misaligned
with stakeholder expectations, which was one of the key issues in the ABC project.
Step 2: Determine How the Result Will Be Achieved
The second step involves identifying the tasks, work activities, and jobs that need to
be completed. It answers the question, “How will the result be achieved?” These
tasks include all efforts necessary to meet the defined objectives, such as technical
development, testing, planning, and coordination. A Work Breakdown Structure
(WBS) is often used to break the project into manageable tasks. This breakdown
assists in resource allocation and helps ensure that no critical activities are
overlooked. Nicholas and Steyn (2021) stress that comprehensive task identification
allows for better coordination and control later in the project. The ABC project failed
at this stage due to poor task planning and a lack of structured methodology.
Varsity Cube 2025 +27 81 278 3372
Assignment 3 2025
Unique #:
Due Date: August 2025
Detailed solutions, explanations, workings
and references.
+27 81 278 3372
, QUESTION 1
The project planning process is an essential phase that sets the foundation for
successful project execution. As Nicholas and Steyn (2021) explain, this process
involves a structured approach aimed at determining what needs to be done, how it
should be done, who should do it, when it should be done, how much it will cost, and
how progress will be monitored. The purpose of each step in this process is to
answer specific questions that reduce uncertainty and guide the project team. In the
case of the ABC project, these steps were not properly implemented, leading to
avoidable challenges. Below is an explanation of the key steps in the planning
process and the critical questions they address.
Step 1: Define the Desired End Result
The first step in planning is to define the project’s objectives, scope, and system
requirements. This step answers the question, “What is the desired end result?”
According to Nicholas and Steyn (2021), this involves clearly identifying what the
project must deliver, such as products, services, or outcomes. The scope defines the
boundaries of the project, including what is included and what is excluded. Properly
defining this early on helps to avoid scope creep and ensures that all stakeholders
share a common understanding of what the project will achieve. System
requirements ensure the outputs meet technical standards or customer needs.
Without this clarity, the project team risks working towards goals that are misaligned
with stakeholder expectations, which was one of the key issues in the ABC project.
Step 2: Determine How the Result Will Be Achieved
The second step involves identifying the tasks, work activities, and jobs that need to
be completed. It answers the question, “How will the result be achieved?” These
tasks include all efforts necessary to meet the defined objectives, such as technical
development, testing, planning, and coordination. A Work Breakdown Structure
(WBS) is often used to break the project into manageable tasks. This breakdown
assists in resource allocation and helps ensure that no critical activities are
overlooked. Nicholas and Steyn (2021) stress that comprehensive task identification
allows for better coordination and control later in the project. The ABC project failed
at this stage due to poor task planning and a lack of structured methodology.
Varsity Cube 2025 +27 81 278 3372
