NEF$3101$ PROJECT MANAGEMENT

PROJECT SCOPE MANAGEMENT

CASE STUDY

Wendy and lan simply couldn't agree on what direction the project should follow. Both had their

idea of what the client wanted and in what direction the project should be moving. After all, they

had both worked on projects before; in fact, projects very similar to the one they were working

on now.

Wendy had seniority and some project experience. lan had just joined the company from one of

their largest competitors, and had brought with him market credibility as a project manager.

The two had met in the corridor after meeting their client that morning to go over the project

definition. Both had left the meeting believing that they each fully understood the client's needs

and expectations for the project. So they were rather surprised to discover that each had a

different version of the events from the meeting.

Wendy had not taken any notes during the meeting, relying instead on her prior knowledge of

the client and the types of projects they were always involved with. Wendy has always felt very

comfortable with the client and knew their mood swings, values and business very well. lan, on

the other hand, being the 'new kid on the block', had little background to go on and had taken

fast and furious notes during the meeting.

Wendy thought that the client had approved her ideas and had authorised the project to start.

lan's version of events was that the client had wanted further options presented and that their

decision to proceed would be based on additional costing being prepared and approved. After

several minutes of failing to convince each other of their respective arguments, Wendy and lan

stormed off to their offices, slamming their doors behind them.

Questions:

a$)$ Is it usual for two or more parties to a project to get different impressions and

understandings of the client's needs $-$ both stated and unstated? Explain your answer.

b$)$ What steps could be taken to reduce uncertainty and ambiguity between these stakeholders

in future dealings with their client?

c$)$ If the project were to commence based on Wendy's understanding, what would be the

implications? Be as expansive in your answer as you can.

d$)$ If Wendy, lan and the client could have their meeting over again, what process should they

follow and what documentation should they use?

e$)$ Why is scoping the project essential for the project's later success?