1. Discuss factors to consider when planning project resources (25 Marks)

Resource availability

Resource requirement

Consider resource cost

Consider skills requirement

When the resource is required

Duration resource is required

Develop shortest schedule

Not exceed fixed available resources

Extend the project completion time if necessary

Give activities on the critical path with the least slack first priority

Delay lower priority activities

2. Discuss the benefits of the Prince 2 Project Methodology (25 Marks) The project board (project sponsors) controls the project. The project is broken down into stages and each stage is controlled separately. Includes end of stage activities and planning for the next stage. Provides project stakeholders with greater control of available resources The ability to manage risks and uncertainties more effectively. Well-controlled and organized launch, middle and end of the project management process. A process-based mechanism of reviewing the project against the plan. Assurance that the project is being implemented under business justification. Tracking of any deviations from the plan. Good communication channels established between the team, project manager and other stakeholders. Involvement of stakeholders Capturing and sharing of lessons learned. Possibility to plan and arrange staff training prior to and during the project course.

3. Discuss ten challenges that Project Managers encounter (30 Marks) Resistance to change Scope changes Lack of skills No / poor support from management Unrealistic deadlines Poor / no communication Risk management Budget constraint Changing technology Resource availability Recession Poor / no supplier support Infrastructure

4 Discuss ten reasons why projects fail (25 Marks) Incompetent project management skills Lack of technical skills Lack of Innovation Concurrency Stakeholders commitment Poor communications Scope creep Not working closely with the client Poor estimating Inadequate planning Insufficient reviews & control A lack of commitment Incomplete information Poor planning Lack of understanding of project management techniques Lack of support from team members Poor budgeting Unavailability of resources

5. Discuss ten factors to consider when selecting a project (25 Marks) Does the project align with company goals? Does the organization have the capital to invest and will the project maximize profits? Will the project offer the best return of investment compared to other projects & investment opportunities? Will the project maximize the utilization of the workforce? Will the project maintain market share, increase market share or consolidate market position? Will the project enable the company to enter new markets Will the project improve the company image? Will the project satisfy the needs of the stakeholders and their political aspirations? Is the project's risk and uncertainty acceptable? Is the project's scope consistent with company expertise to satisfy quality requirements? Is the time frame, budget, acceptable? Is the location acceptable? (Safety / Access / Target Market)