Project Planning
All projects will have a variety of stake holders and that’s means there will be a variety of requirements, expectations, and objectives.
In a web development focused organisation stakeholders can include
• Employed members of staff
• Funder of the project
• Organisation creating the product.
• Hosts or creators of software applications used by the company.
• End users of the product
• Contractors/sub-contractors
• Organisation requesting the product.
Project planning and scheduling
Project planning involves the comprehensive process of defining the scope, objectives, and strategies required to accomplish a project's goals. It's about creating a roadmap that outlines the necessary steps, resources, timelines, and milestones to successfully complete a project. Planning encompasses various aspects such as defining tasks, setting goals, estimating resources, identifying risks, and establishing communication and reporting mechanisms.
Scheduling, on the other hand, is a part of project planning that specifically deals with timelines and the sequence of activities required to complete the project. It involves breaking down the project into smaller, manageable tasks or activities, assigning timeframes to each task, and creating a timeline or schedule that details when these activities should start and finish. Scheduling helps in managing resources effectively, optimizing the use of time, and ensuring that the project progresses as planned.
In summary, project planning encompasses the overall strategy and approach to achieve project objectives, while scheduling specifically focuses on the allocation of time and sequencing of activities within that plan. Both are integral parts of project management, working together to ensure successful project execution.
Benefits of project planning
Project planning offers numerous benefits:
• Clarity of Goals: Clearly defines project objectives for everyone involved.
• Resource Allocation: Efficiently assigns and manages resources.
• Risk Management: Identifies and minimizes potential risks.
• Timeline and Milestones: Sets achievable timelines and measurable milestones.
• Coordination and Collaboration: Enhances teamwork and communication.
• Budget Management: Estimates and controls project costs.
• Quality Control: Ensures adherence to defined quality standards.
• Client Satisfaction: Increases client satisfaction by meeting expectations.
• Adaptability: Allows flexibility to adapt to changes.
• Documentation and Learning: Provides a reference for future projects and learning from past experiences.
Stages of project planning
Project planning typically involves several key stages:
• Initiation: This is the starting point where the project is conceived, and its feasibility and potential benefits are assessed. The project's scope, objectives, and initial planning are outlined in this phase.
• Planning: Detailed planning takes place in this stage. It involves defining project goals, creating a work breakdown structure, establishing timelines, setting milestones, identifying resources, and devising a comprehensive project plan. Risk assessment and management strategies are also developed during this phase.
• Execution: This phase involves putting the plan into action. Resources are allocated, tasks are delegated, and the project team begins their work. Communication and coordination among team members are crucial during execution.
• Monitoring and Control: Progress is continuously tracked and measured against the established milestones and benchmarks. Any deviations from the plan are identified, and corrective actions are taken to ensure the project stays on track. Quality control and risk management activities are ongoing throughout this phase.
• Closure: Once the project objectives are met, or deliverables are achieved, the project is formally closed. This stage involves handing over the project's outcomes to the stakeholders, conducting post-project evaluations, documenting lessons learned, and celebrating successes.
These stages are often iterative, allowing for adjustments and refinements throughout the project lifecycle to ensure its success.
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