What is a Project?

A project is a temporary endeavor that has the following features

• Has defined start and end dates
• Has a specific objective to be completed within certain specifications
• Has funding limits (budget)
• Consumes resources (time and material)
• Creates a lasting outcome for an organization, client, or stakeholders

A project can be anything from the development of computer software, the design of a new style of pet food, the creation of a movie, or the design of a new manufacturing technique. The writing of this article could be considered a project; it has a start and end date, has a specific objective, consumes resources, and hopefully creates a lasting outcome. 

Projects are one of the main roles of the engineer. This is because engineers solve problems, manage relationships, make decisions based on data, and communicate with the team. This leads to successful projects.

There are generally 5 phases of a project

1. Initiating
2. Planning
3. Executing
4. Monitoring and Controlling
5. Closing

In the initiating phase, the project stakeholders are identified, the project charter or scope is defined, and the project team is selected.

In the planning phase, the project management plan is developed, and the schedule, estimated costs, and risk analysis are defined. This is also the phase where the project manager(s) will define how to manage and communicate with stakeholders.

The execution phase is where the work is performed, and the team is managed. This phase is also where quality assurance and necessary resources to complete the project are identified.

Now that the project is underway, the monitoring and controlling phase of the project begins. This is where a process to monitor and implement change is developed. A method for cost and schedule control is developed and implemented. Quality control is maintained, and risks are defined and dealt with.

The final phase is the closing phase. This is where the project is completed, and the project is assessed and compared to the original plan. This is a crucial and often overlooked step. This is where mistakes are found and documented so they will not be repeated. It is also where successes are documented so they too can be improved.

Stay tuned! BSM Engineering will be conducting a series of articles covering project management. This will be a continuing series that will allow the reader to understand project management, the techniques and tools used to manage projects, and how to mitigate risks as they arise.

References

1. PMI, PMBOK Guide 6^th Edition/Rice University Engineer Project Management.

 

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About the Author

Doug Cleary is the Director of Innovation Engineering for BSM Partners. Doug has over 30 years of experience as a senior technician, lead engineer, technical team leader, and project manager on a wide range of projects involved with automated systems used in the Food Processing, Resin Manufacturing, and Themed Park Industry. He has also been involved with the global start-up and commissioning of product lines and has extensive experience with onsite troubleshooting and resolution of technical problems. Doug has developed equipment troubleshooting and preventive maintenance programs for a wide range of manufacturing equipment and has created new and modified existing controls to eliminate downtime and to greatly increase yields and efficiency.