Assigned Readings: Chapter 7: Project InitiationChapter  8: Overview of Project Planning Overview: Chapter 7 introduces the first phase of the project management life cycle: project initiation

Assigned Readings:

Chapter 7: Project InitiationChapter 

8: Overview of Project Planning

Overview:

Chapter 7 introduces the first phase of the project management life cycle: project initiation.  Project initiation is when the business problem or opportunity is identified, a solution is defined, a project is formed, and a project team is appointed.  Chapter 8 provides a solid overview of project planning.  This is the second phase in the project management lifecycle and is where most project managers spend a great deal of their time.  It is the ‘heart’ of the project life cycle, but also the most challenging phase for the project manager. 

Learning Objectives:

1. Explain the key components of the Project Initiation phase and the project manager’s responsibilities during this phase.
2.  Identify and explain the different options available for deciding which project to work on (e.g. NPV, ROI etc.)
3. Understand when and why a Project Charter is used.  What value does it bring?
4. Understand all the processes included in Project Planning and why they are important to the success of a project.