Regarding Assignment 1, please find attached a PPT file with helpful tips. The coversheet for the assignment has been uploaded in the Week 5 module. Below are the details and requirements for Assignment 1.
Assignment 1: Essay (Individual, PMBOK Knowledge Area)
- Weighting: 40%
- Submission: Online through MyUni
Task:
Students are required to:
- Investigate a specific project management topic and apply it to a real-world case study.
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the chosen topic based on PMBOK principles.
- Support arguments with scholarly references and practical insights.
Chosen Topic and Case Study:
✅ Project Scope Management
✅ Case Study: Denver International Airport (DIA) Baggage System
Essay Structure & Key Focus Areas
Introduction
- Provide an overview of Project Scope Management as defined by PMBOK.
- Introduce the Denver International Airport (DIA) Baggage System project.
- Explain why this case study is relevant to project scope management failures.
Project Scope Management Overview
- Explain what project scope management is and why it is critical for project success.
- Discuss key scope management processes (e.g., scope planning, definition, verification, and control).
Case Study: DIA Baggage System
- Project Background: Describe the original goals and intended benefits of the baggage system.
- Scope Definition & Planning: How was the project scope defined initially?
- Scope Creep & Challenges:
- Identify major scope-related issues (e.g., unrealistic expectations, lack of stakeholder alignment, mismanagement).
- Explain how these problems led to delays, cost overruns, and project failure.
Lessons Learned & Connection to PMBOK
- What could have been done differently to better manage the scope?
- Link the case study findings back to PMBOK principles and best practices.
Conclusion
- Summarise key takeaways.
- Highlight the importance of proper scope management in preventing similar failures.
Sources & Research Expectations
- Case Study Sources: Use MyUni, PMI case studies, and open sources from the internet.
- Supporting Evidence: Use textbooks, research papers (especially Results/Findings sections), and other academic sources.
Length & Formatting
- Word limit: 2,500 words (+/- 10%, excluding references and appendices).
- Formatting: No fixed format; tutors may provide a template, but you can adapt it.
- Referencing: Harvard or Harvard (UOA) style.
Key Considerations for a High-Quality Essay
✅ Originality – Turnitin similarity score must be below 20%.
✅ Use of Recent Research – 10–20 references from both academic and non-academic sources.
✅ Demonstration of Learning – Show your understanding of project scope management and how it applies to real-world projects.
✅ Logical Flow & Clarity – Ensure clear arguments, well-structured sections, and professional presentation.