5Z7V0002 Executing Projects in Uncertainty Assignment Brief | LMU

5Z7V0002 Task 1 (70%): 

Develop and articulate a comprehensive strategy for executing an international project, utilising adaptive or hybrid project management approaches. Conduct a thorough analysis of the repercussions of crises such as COVID-19, the Russia-Ukraine war, and other uncertain situations on project implementation. Offer strategic recommendations for the project manager to effectively navigate and mitigate challenges. Illustrate your insights with diverse crisis examples from real-world scenarios to enhance the practical relevance of your analysis. This is an individual piece of work of a maximum of 3500 words (excluding the reference list). Note that excess will be ignored. 

5Z7V0002 Task 2 (30%): 

This is an individual assignment that requires you to run a project simulation exercise.

Unit Learning Outcomes Assessed: 

1. Evaluate and critically reflect on executing, monitoring and control techniques for projects. 
2. Critically assess the environmental factors, including political issues, for complex projects. 

Early Career/ World Class Professional Skills (PLOs): 

This assignment will help further develop information gathering capabilities, critical analysis and thinking skills and practical decision making as well as enhancing written communication skills, which are essential for employability and lifelong learning. 

The appropriate Programme Learning Outcomes are - 

• PLO1. Identify and apply information critically in relation to context (developed)
• PLO2. Demonstrate communication skills at the appropriate level and using appropriate media (developed) 
• PLO3. Identify and interrogate issues of ethics, responsibility and sustainability (developed)
• PLO4. Demonstrate critical professional and commercial/corporate awareness in your discipline (assessed)

5Z7V0002 Assignment Details and Instructions:

Task 1 (70%) 

You are required to select the main elements of international projects, delivered using Agile or Hybrid methods, to be investigated by this assignment. You need to produce a literature review of the selected areas, giving a critique of each selected one. The main criteria for the assignment are covered below. 

Describe and Analyse a plan for delivering an International Project in the situation of a crisis and/or uncertainty

You need to formulate and describe a plan for delivering an international project, using the techniques of Agile or Hybrid Project Management. International projects refer to initiatives that span multiple countries or regions, necessitating adaptability to diverse cultures, legal frameworks, and potential challenges arising from global events or geopolitical factors. You should then provide a critical analysis of the main issues that may affect the project implementation in the situation of a crisis and/or uncertainty (e.g. COVID-19 Pandemic). You should use examples from practice and produce a literature review, summarising the important academic literature sources, in respect of each element. You must also provide recommendations to address the identified issues and thus assist the project manager in delivering a successful project responding to the business impacts of the situation.

Key Hints: 

• Revisit your understanding of critical path methods before commencing the simulation. 
• Distinguish between project planning, control, and project implementation. 
• Consider contingencies during the planning phase, preparing for unexpected events. 
• Document your choices for subcontractors and additional expenditures and the reasons behind your decisions. 
• Be adaptable and open to plan revisions, as circumstances change over the course of the project.

Trial Runs: 

You will have three trial runs of the simulation to familiarize yourself with the platform and refine your decision-making abilities. The trial run session will be open from certain dates that will be announced in the Moodle. 

Final Simulation Attempt: 

You have Two attempts for the final simulation. 
The final simulation run will be scheduled and announced in the Moodle area. 

5Z7V0002 Assessment Criteria: 

Your performance in the simulation will be evaluated based on your ability to effectively manage quality, cost, and timing within the project. The decisions you make, the flexibility you exhibit in responding to unexpected events, and your overall project management skills will be key factors in the assessment.