PLO 5
"Work collaboratively in teams and use project management practices effectively to solve user-centric information and data problems."
Definition:
This competency describes the importance of group effort and project management techniques. One of the benefits of working in teams is the amalgamation of perspectives and group knowledge that can be used to devise specialized data and information systems. When implementing new technology to an existing system, organizations can employ teams to ensure a smooth transition. Teams can identify problems during the implementation process, and propose solutions to those issues. Project management establishes the protocol for determining what items should be addressed and how to go about executing appropriate solutions.
Using project management techniques assures that teams remain within an established number of resources and prescribed scope of work. Working in teams benefits productivity because it is always important to look beyond one’s own perspective. Oftentimes perspective may not be the only limiting factor, and subject matter expertise may be missing as well. Thus, teams help flesh out ideas and reinforce arguments during the decision-making process. Project management supports timely progression, otherwise, projects may end up using all allocated resources and fail.
Description:
#1: Craigslist.com Design Critique and Usability Report
For this report, I developed a critique of the Craigslist.com website using a set of nine heuristic metrics pertaining to the website’s usability. Prior to generating the report, I took feedback from a discussion post I made where I expressed my initial impressions of Craigslist with other group members. I outlined Craiglist’s strengths and weaknesses and scored each metric from one through ten. Furthermore, in the group discussion, I was able to help others flesh out their arguments by expanding on elements they mentioned. This forum was a great way to witness how other group members approached their usability analysis.
Critique Assignment.pdfCraigslist.org Discussion.pdf#2: Project Management Frameworks and Methodologies
In this assignment, I explained the importance of project management, described a few project management frameworks and methodologies, and discussed the state of project management. I reviewed the history of project management and its possible trajectory. Interestingly, it seems as though project management will be software-based to help further organize project processes and improve convenience for project members. There are many project management software applications available that support the different frameworks and methodologies. I explained the differences and similarities between Kanban, Scrum, Agile, and Waterfall frameworks and methodologies.
Project Management Frameworks and Methodologies.pdf#3: Three Elements of Successful Project Management
I evaluated the three essential components to successful project management: clear communication, effective risk management, and fostering teamwork. Practicing these elements in a team setting will ensure that the project is completed on time and within designated resource limitations. Having clear communication in a team setting helps build an environment where team members understand their tasks and the final outcome. Along the same line, environments where team members are able to communicate frustrations or suggestions also increases productivity. To supplement these two components, risk awareness and calculations should be included for proactive readiness.
Three Elements for Successful Project Management.pdfDiscussion:
Now that I understand the differences between a few project management frameworks and methodologies, I will be capable of instituting the appropriate technique to ensure success. I find it useful to understand how each framework and methodology can be employed in a team setting, based on their strengths and weaknesses. I can also exemplify the three factors to successful project management when I work in a team, and introduce the necessary changes that will lead to successful project completion. Working as a team will be efficient and productive when having project management techniques in place, otherwise, projects will have a risk of failing. With this issue out of the way, team members will be able to express their perspectives openly and without the risk of derailing a project.