PRO4801
Assignment 3
DUE 2025
,Question 3.1 (20 Marks)
Distinguish between the different steps in the project planning process and
explain the purpose of typical questions to be answered in each step.
Introduction
Project planning is a structured process that outlines how a project will be executed,
monitored, and completed. It involves defining the scope, setting objectives, assigning
resources, managing risks, and establishing timelines. Each step in the planning
process serves a specific function and is guided by strategic questions that ensure
clarity, accountability, and alignment with stakeholder expectations. Effective project
planning is essential for achieving project goals on time, within budget, and to the
required quality standards.
Steps in the Project Planning Process
1. Define the Project Scope
Purpose: Establishes the boundaries of the project by outlining what the project will
achieve and what it will not include. This step avoids scope creep and sets a clear
focus.
Typical Questions:
What are the main objectives and deliverables?
What features, tasks, or outcomes are excluded?
Who are the beneficiaries or end-users of the project?
, 2. Identify Stakeholders and Roles
Purpose: Determines who is affected by or involved in the project and assigns
responsibilities. Ensures that communication and accountability are maintained.
Typical Questions:
Who are the internal and external stakeholders?
What are their interests, expectations, and levels of influence?
Who is responsible for what?
3. Define Objectives and Success Criteria
Purpose: Clarifies what the project aims to accomplish and how success will be
measured. Helps align the team and stakeholders around shared goals.
Typical Questions:
What are the SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound)
objectives?
How will success be evaluated?
What are the key performance indicators (KPIs)?
4. Develop a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)
Purpose: Breaks the project into manageable tasks and sub-tasks. This facilitates
resource planning, cost estimation, and time scheduling.
Typical Questions:
What are the main project phases?
What specific tasks are required to complete each phase?
How are these tasks logically connected?
Assignment 3
DUE 2025
,Question 3.1 (20 Marks)
Distinguish between the different steps in the project planning process and
explain the purpose of typical questions to be answered in each step.
Introduction
Project planning is a structured process that outlines how a project will be executed,
monitored, and completed. It involves defining the scope, setting objectives, assigning
resources, managing risks, and establishing timelines. Each step in the planning
process serves a specific function and is guided by strategic questions that ensure
clarity, accountability, and alignment with stakeholder expectations. Effective project
planning is essential for achieving project goals on time, within budget, and to the
required quality standards.
Steps in the Project Planning Process
1. Define the Project Scope
Purpose: Establishes the boundaries of the project by outlining what the project will
achieve and what it will not include. This step avoids scope creep and sets a clear
focus.
Typical Questions:
What are the main objectives and deliverables?
What features, tasks, or outcomes are excluded?
Who are the beneficiaries or end-users of the project?
, 2. Identify Stakeholders and Roles
Purpose: Determines who is affected by or involved in the project and assigns
responsibilities. Ensures that communication and accountability are maintained.
Typical Questions:
Who are the internal and external stakeholders?
What are their interests, expectations, and levels of influence?
Who is responsible for what?
3. Define Objectives and Success Criteria
Purpose: Clarifies what the project aims to accomplish and how success will be
measured. Helps align the team and stakeholders around shared goals.
Typical Questions:
What are the SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound)
objectives?
How will success be evaluated?
What are the key performance indicators (KPIs)?
4. Develop a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)
Purpose: Breaks the project into manageable tasks and sub-tasks. This facilitates
resource planning, cost estimation, and time scheduling.
Typical Questions:
What are the main project phases?
What specific tasks are required to complete each phase?
How are these tasks logically connected?
