UNIT 9: IT PROJECT
MANAGEMENT Assignment 3:
How did the project go?
1
,Table of Contents
1.1 What new skills and techniques did you learn during the project?.................................................3
Managing Time and Tasks in the A&S Cakes Project..........................................................................3
Managing Risks:.................................................................................................................................3
Managing your resources:.................................................................................................................4
Communication.................................................................................................................................5
1.2 What new skills and techniques did you learn during the project?.................................................5
Project Management Methodology (PMM)?.....................................................................................5
Project Management Skills & Behaviours:.........................................................................................6
Summarise your Recommendation:..................................................................................................7
2
,1.1 What new skills and techniques did you learn
during the project?
Managing Time and Tasks in the A&S Cakes Project
Successful management of time and tasks was very important regarding the successful execution of
the A&S Cakes website development project. In this regard, I applied the Waterfall methodology-a
sequential and structured approach-supported by Gantt charts to track time. These have helped me
move through different phases of the project in an organised manner while addressing the
challenges associated with them.
The Waterfall methodology was an appropriate fit for this project because the requirements were
well defined and did not change. I followed its linear structure, where each phase comprising
requirements, design, implementation, testing, and maintenance was fully completed before moving
on to the next. This systematic approach provided clarity and focus throughout the project, fostering
a disciplined process that allowed me to deliver a high-quality product.
Regarding the time management aspect, I relied on Gantt charts in showing the duration and
dependencies of activities. At the beginning, I underestimated how much time certain phases of the
work would take. For instance, the requirement-gathering phase took an extra day over the six days
allocated, to ensure that everything was well listed and understood. Similarly, what was to take four
days in the design phase dragged on for seven days due to a setback in which I lost my design plan
and had to redevelop it. The implementation phase was also more complicated than anticipated,
taking fourteen days from what was planned for seven days.
Each webpage took 2–3 days in development, while the homepage took four days due to some
challenges in implementing an automatic slideshow feature. In that, while the implementation took
up only seven days as against nine days as earlier projected, since many of the issues were resolved
by then, saving time on the testing. Maintenance conformed to the original schedule; the entire
project was completed in due time without compromising quality. This was when the Gantt chart
really helped me in adjusting and readjusting time accordingly. Taking time from phases where I
finished in advance and relocating it to other places where the tasks needed much attention, I
managed to balance not to be burned out while trying to be in sync with the overall project
deadline. Moreover, the Waterfall methodology was further complementary to the project scope
because through this, the progress of tracking and meeting the milestones became so crystal clear. It
made sure that every phase would be systematically approached without causing overlap and
confusion. Even at some point in challenges, the Gantt chart, along with the waterfall methodology,
allowed me to adapt efficiently, manage resources effectively, and deliver a product meeting all the
requirements.
Above all, timely usage of the waterfall methodology and Gantt charts helped me through the time
and task management challenges and kept the project right on course for completion.
Managing Risks:
In the process of improving the website, several significant risks were identified and effectively
mitigated to enhance functionality, user experience, and overall quality. One of the primary risks was
the absence of logos on pages other than the home page, which posed a threat to branding
consistency. This lack of uniform branding could lead to user confusion and diminish trust in the
website, giving it an unprofessional appearance. To address this, logos were incorporated into the
header of every page, creating a cohesive and visually consistent brand presence throughout the
3
,site. This adjustment not only resolved the risk of branding inconsistency but also strengthened the
website’s visual identity and professionalism.
Another critical risk was the presence of incomplete or inaccurate terms and conditions on the
website, which introduced potential legal vulnerabilities. Without properly defined terms, there was
a risk of non-compliance with consumer protection laws, leading to disputes or legal challenges. This
oversight could also expose the company to liability if users misunderstood their rights or the
company's policies. To address this, the terms and conditions were reviewed and updated to ensure
clarity, compliance with legal standards, and alignment with the company's practices. By mitigating
this risk, the website became more reliable and legally robust, reducing the likelihood of legal
complications.
A further risk involved the social media links, which initially were non-functional. This posed a
serious threat to user engagement, as broken links could frustrate visitors, erode their trust in the
site, and limit opportunities for interaction with the company. By fixing these links, users were
enabled to navigate seamlessly to the company’s Instagram page, fostering greater interactivity. This
improvement not only enhanced the user experience but also helped the company build stronger
connections with its audience.
By addressing these risks, the website's overall quality, compliance, and user engagement were
significantly improved, resulting in a final product that was polished, professional, and secure.
Managing your resources:
The beginnings of any complex website are a struggle. That becomes very achievable when
resources are managed well. My first task in developing the A&S Cakes website was the process of
gathering requirements from the client. It is a vital phase to go through; one can only make sure that
the website being developed meets the expectations of the client. That included making sufficient
interaction with the client to understand the depth of what was needed for this website. Such a
procedure enabled me to come up with a profound list of requirements, serving as the baseline of
the project. To some time along into development, addition and modification in requirements went
into the purview and scope of work. The scope of the project was the first to be described in detail.
This way, I was ensured that all the required features of the website would be built, like the cake's
gallery, a bookings page, or a contact form, and which ones can be safely removed or altered in case
of time or resource limitations. Development tools: I will use Notepad++ in writing the code for the
website. This software eases the coding process since it provides features like syntax highlighting,
which enables one to spot errors in code quickly, and auto-completion, which really makes coding
faster and more effective.
It allowed me to take note of customer requirements directly in the software, which helped me be
organized and focused on the project. Its user-friendly interface and many useful features made it a
very necessary tool for the success of this project. Notepad++ really did make the development
process a lot easier. It gave me the assurance that I would be able to keep track of all tasks at hand
in meeting the expectations of the client.
The organizational tools and the efficiency of the software allowed me to manage my available
resources better and keep on top of this project with ease, which in turn could focus on the more
creative aspects of development. From this, I learned even the most complex projects really are
achievable with the proper tools and effective resource utilization.
4
, Communication
Effective communication was one of the ways we delivered the A&S Cakes website development
project. In that regard, we used the benefits of email and Zoom to keep us in contact for smooth-
running activities and keeping that sense of contact while working remotely. We have used these for
communication to let others know in due time of updates or problems needing a solution. E-mail
was good for regular communication. I would find myself going back a lot to sending daily updates
on the progress of things to be done so that the team always knew where we were with things. It
provided a place to share documents, like design plans or client feedback, so everybody was on the
same page with the most recent resources. This gave every member the chance to respond at his
convenience and at any time without disturbing the workflow. Other than this, email provided a
written record of all our discussions and decisions, which proved so invaluable when one needed to
go back to review details. For example, during design, I had to go back and search for an e-mail
because the client had mentioned how they would like things on the website. While it was fine for
routine updates, in-depth and interactive discussions meant using Zoom instead of emails. It's most
effective for brainstorming ideas, solving complex problems, and making key decisions as a team in
virtual face-to-face meetings using Zoom. The ability to share screens during meetings just adds that
extra layer of collaboration when reviewing design mock-ups, debugging code, or demonstrating
functionalities in real time. For instance, while working on the slideshow feature for the homepage,
we were able to troubleshoot together over Zoom and therefore reduced the time by a great
margin, which would have been spent working individually. Email and Zoom offered a good balance
between convenience and interactivity that kept our team connected and organized. We progressed
smoothly without any delays because we shared documents and updates via email, and we took up
the more complex challenges via zoom.
The meetings on Zoom also build the spirit of teamwork and comradery when it comes to
overcoming a problem. For instance, in the case of the tight deadlines, timely discussions over Zoom
allowed for reallocation of tasks and adjusting time accordingly to keep up with the project. In a
nutshell, the bottom line is that communication on emails and effective use of Zoom made this work.
These platforms kept the team updated, allowed its members to adapt and thus collaborate
efficiently throughout, eventually bringing forth a very high-quality website that delivers on all
points required by the client.
1.2 What new skills and techniques did you learn
during the project?
Project Management Methodology (PMM)?
I obtained useful skills and techniques for the management of the development project in the A&S
Cakes website through PMM, which played a vital role in successfully undertaking the project.
Working through the objectives and challenges presented with this task significantly deepened my
understanding of structured approaches to planning, execution, and monitoring.
One of the crucial skills that I developed involves the implementation of the Waterfall methodology,
which is a sequential and linear process. While this is theoretically something with which I am quite
familiar, this project presented my first application of it. I learned to break down the project into
distinct phases-requirements, design, implementation, testing, and maintenance-ensuring at every
phase that it was properly completed prior to proceeding with the next phase. This structured
approach allowed me to handle the tasks one by one and yet retain focus on the deliverables. It also
helped maintain clarity and direction, ensuring the project's scope remained well-defined.
5
MANAGEMENT Assignment 3:
How did the project go?
1
,Table of Contents
1.1 What new skills and techniques did you learn during the project?.................................................3
Managing Time and Tasks in the A&S Cakes Project..........................................................................3
Managing Risks:.................................................................................................................................3
Managing your resources:.................................................................................................................4
Communication.................................................................................................................................5
1.2 What new skills and techniques did you learn during the project?.................................................5
Project Management Methodology (PMM)?.....................................................................................5
Project Management Skills & Behaviours:.........................................................................................6
Summarise your Recommendation:..................................................................................................7
2
,1.1 What new skills and techniques did you learn
during the project?
Managing Time and Tasks in the A&S Cakes Project
Successful management of time and tasks was very important regarding the successful execution of
the A&S Cakes website development project. In this regard, I applied the Waterfall methodology-a
sequential and structured approach-supported by Gantt charts to track time. These have helped me
move through different phases of the project in an organised manner while addressing the
challenges associated with them.
The Waterfall methodology was an appropriate fit for this project because the requirements were
well defined and did not change. I followed its linear structure, where each phase comprising
requirements, design, implementation, testing, and maintenance was fully completed before moving
on to the next. This systematic approach provided clarity and focus throughout the project, fostering
a disciplined process that allowed me to deliver a high-quality product.
Regarding the time management aspect, I relied on Gantt charts in showing the duration and
dependencies of activities. At the beginning, I underestimated how much time certain phases of the
work would take. For instance, the requirement-gathering phase took an extra day over the six days
allocated, to ensure that everything was well listed and understood. Similarly, what was to take four
days in the design phase dragged on for seven days due to a setback in which I lost my design plan
and had to redevelop it. The implementation phase was also more complicated than anticipated,
taking fourteen days from what was planned for seven days.
Each webpage took 2–3 days in development, while the homepage took four days due to some
challenges in implementing an automatic slideshow feature. In that, while the implementation took
up only seven days as against nine days as earlier projected, since many of the issues were resolved
by then, saving time on the testing. Maintenance conformed to the original schedule; the entire
project was completed in due time without compromising quality. This was when the Gantt chart
really helped me in adjusting and readjusting time accordingly. Taking time from phases where I
finished in advance and relocating it to other places where the tasks needed much attention, I
managed to balance not to be burned out while trying to be in sync with the overall project
deadline. Moreover, the Waterfall methodology was further complementary to the project scope
because through this, the progress of tracking and meeting the milestones became so crystal clear. It
made sure that every phase would be systematically approached without causing overlap and
confusion. Even at some point in challenges, the Gantt chart, along with the waterfall methodology,
allowed me to adapt efficiently, manage resources effectively, and deliver a product meeting all the
requirements.
Above all, timely usage of the waterfall methodology and Gantt charts helped me through the time
and task management challenges and kept the project right on course for completion.
Managing Risks:
In the process of improving the website, several significant risks were identified and effectively
mitigated to enhance functionality, user experience, and overall quality. One of the primary risks was
the absence of logos on pages other than the home page, which posed a threat to branding
consistency. This lack of uniform branding could lead to user confusion and diminish trust in the
website, giving it an unprofessional appearance. To address this, logos were incorporated into the
header of every page, creating a cohesive and visually consistent brand presence throughout the
3
,site. This adjustment not only resolved the risk of branding inconsistency but also strengthened the
website’s visual identity and professionalism.
Another critical risk was the presence of incomplete or inaccurate terms and conditions on the
website, which introduced potential legal vulnerabilities. Without properly defined terms, there was
a risk of non-compliance with consumer protection laws, leading to disputes or legal challenges. This
oversight could also expose the company to liability if users misunderstood their rights or the
company's policies. To address this, the terms and conditions were reviewed and updated to ensure
clarity, compliance with legal standards, and alignment with the company's practices. By mitigating
this risk, the website became more reliable and legally robust, reducing the likelihood of legal
complications.
A further risk involved the social media links, which initially were non-functional. This posed a
serious threat to user engagement, as broken links could frustrate visitors, erode their trust in the
site, and limit opportunities for interaction with the company. By fixing these links, users were
enabled to navigate seamlessly to the company’s Instagram page, fostering greater interactivity. This
improvement not only enhanced the user experience but also helped the company build stronger
connections with its audience.
By addressing these risks, the website's overall quality, compliance, and user engagement were
significantly improved, resulting in a final product that was polished, professional, and secure.
Managing your resources:
The beginnings of any complex website are a struggle. That becomes very achievable when
resources are managed well. My first task in developing the A&S Cakes website was the process of
gathering requirements from the client. It is a vital phase to go through; one can only make sure that
the website being developed meets the expectations of the client. That included making sufficient
interaction with the client to understand the depth of what was needed for this website. Such a
procedure enabled me to come up with a profound list of requirements, serving as the baseline of
the project. To some time along into development, addition and modification in requirements went
into the purview and scope of work. The scope of the project was the first to be described in detail.
This way, I was ensured that all the required features of the website would be built, like the cake's
gallery, a bookings page, or a contact form, and which ones can be safely removed or altered in case
of time or resource limitations. Development tools: I will use Notepad++ in writing the code for the
website. This software eases the coding process since it provides features like syntax highlighting,
which enables one to spot errors in code quickly, and auto-completion, which really makes coding
faster and more effective.
It allowed me to take note of customer requirements directly in the software, which helped me be
organized and focused on the project. Its user-friendly interface and many useful features made it a
very necessary tool for the success of this project. Notepad++ really did make the development
process a lot easier. It gave me the assurance that I would be able to keep track of all tasks at hand
in meeting the expectations of the client.
The organizational tools and the efficiency of the software allowed me to manage my available
resources better and keep on top of this project with ease, which in turn could focus on the more
creative aspects of development. From this, I learned even the most complex projects really are
achievable with the proper tools and effective resource utilization.
4
, Communication
Effective communication was one of the ways we delivered the A&S Cakes website development
project. In that regard, we used the benefits of email and Zoom to keep us in contact for smooth-
running activities and keeping that sense of contact while working remotely. We have used these for
communication to let others know in due time of updates or problems needing a solution. E-mail
was good for regular communication. I would find myself going back a lot to sending daily updates
on the progress of things to be done so that the team always knew where we were with things. It
provided a place to share documents, like design plans or client feedback, so everybody was on the
same page with the most recent resources. This gave every member the chance to respond at his
convenience and at any time without disturbing the workflow. Other than this, email provided a
written record of all our discussions and decisions, which proved so invaluable when one needed to
go back to review details. For example, during design, I had to go back and search for an e-mail
because the client had mentioned how they would like things on the website. While it was fine for
routine updates, in-depth and interactive discussions meant using Zoom instead of emails. It's most
effective for brainstorming ideas, solving complex problems, and making key decisions as a team in
virtual face-to-face meetings using Zoom. The ability to share screens during meetings just adds that
extra layer of collaboration when reviewing design mock-ups, debugging code, or demonstrating
functionalities in real time. For instance, while working on the slideshow feature for the homepage,
we were able to troubleshoot together over Zoom and therefore reduced the time by a great
margin, which would have been spent working individually. Email and Zoom offered a good balance
between convenience and interactivity that kept our team connected and organized. We progressed
smoothly without any delays because we shared documents and updates via email, and we took up
the more complex challenges via zoom.
The meetings on Zoom also build the spirit of teamwork and comradery when it comes to
overcoming a problem. For instance, in the case of the tight deadlines, timely discussions over Zoom
allowed for reallocation of tasks and adjusting time accordingly to keep up with the project. In a
nutshell, the bottom line is that communication on emails and effective use of Zoom made this work.
These platforms kept the team updated, allowed its members to adapt and thus collaborate
efficiently throughout, eventually bringing forth a very high-quality website that delivers on all
points required by the client.
1.2 What new skills and techniques did you learn
during the project?
Project Management Methodology (PMM)?
I obtained useful skills and techniques for the management of the development project in the A&S
Cakes website through PMM, which played a vital role in successfully undertaking the project.
Working through the objectives and challenges presented with this task significantly deepened my
understanding of structured approaches to planning, execution, and monitoring.
One of the crucial skills that I developed involves the implementation of the Waterfall methodology,
which is a sequential and linear process. While this is theoretically something with which I am quite
familiar, this project presented my first application of it. I learned to break down the project into
distinct phases-requirements, design, implementation, testing, and maintenance-ensuring at every
phase that it was properly completed prior to proceeding with the next phase. This structured
approach allowed me to handle the tasks one by one and yet retain focus on the deliverables. It also
helped maintain clarity and direction, ensuring the project's scope remained well-defined.
5
