Idea Generation Paper (Optional)

For those working on a self-generated Project Only

Due: Thursday, 9 May by 12 noon via D2L Dropbox

The purpose of this paper is to begin thinking about possible major projects. The due date will
allow me to read your reports and then provide feedback to allow you to select and shape your
project in order to prepare the project proposal.

Paper Content

The paper should be no longer than three pages (1.5 spacing) and describe a minimum of three
possible projects. Describe in sufficient depth the specific project ideas. For each idea, list the
key issues, decisions, and/or questions which the project should answer. Identify major risks and
contingency plans for successful completion of the project. Identify the steps needed for
approval and commitment from the company, others, and your professor. Note that all the
project ideas should go well beyond a project you "would have done anyway." Something
should be significantly different, either in the project selected, the content brought to bear on it,
or in the process of implementation for this to be a truly successful course for a given individual
participant.

Ideally, by the time the idea generation paper has been completed, you would have had
conversations with possible project sponsors, and you may have already decided which project to
complete for the course. If so, state your ranking of the projects in order of preference, and give
a rationale for your selected project idea. Identify, with certainty, the relevant related objectives
of your firm’s executives and key stakeholders, and how they align with your own in this project.

Selection Criteria

The selection of a project idea may benefit from systematic analysis. The selection criteria are
not an essential component of the idea generation paper, but you may find it helpful to think
through the ideas. Below are a few ideas for how to structure your analysis.

• Identify and expand on the alignment of relevant objectives of your firm's executives and/or
EMBA sponsor, key stakeholders, and yourself.

• Identify and analyse with a table/grid at least two project alternatives.

• Generate a list of weighted criteria for project selection such as: Value to me - 20%; Value to
corporation - 20%; Can be accomplished in timeframe - 30%;Low risk of project collapse -
 30%; Other criteria? Also, as a rule of thumb, the projects should be substantial enough to
require 100-150 hours of your time during the semester. Too little would result in a project
lacking substance; too much would make it nearly impossible to complete in a timely
manner and with professional quality.

Types of Project Ideas:

There are a number of sources for potential projects:

a) Review your experience with your company, and identify some major strategic or
management challenges. Do any of the issues identified point to a core project idea for which
you could be an important catalyst currently?

b) Discuss potential projects with senior managers in your organization. Projects should be
strategic in nature – i.e. they matter to the organization, are multi-disciplinary (including at
least three management disciplines), and should NOT be on your personal list of projects you
would have to do anyway. This is an opportunity to highlight your new and expanding
abilities to your co-workers and senior managers.

c) If you are unable or unwilling to find a project with the organization with which you are
employed, projects for other organizations or business plans are acceptable. The projects
could be other businesses you have some familiarity with, or not-for-profit organizations.

d) If all else fails, switch to a project option. Examples of projects may include a strategic audit
of your organization, an industry analysis, a business plan for a new product, service or
market, a business plan for a new venture that interests you (for possible implementation now
or later), a business case for a new process, piece of equipment, or technology.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: If I am in between jobs or thinking about a job change in the next four months, how to
I decide on my project?

Answer: You can work on a project with an outside company which either you or the professor
can identify.

Question: Can I do a project on a start-up business?

Answer: If you have an idea for a start-up this could be a good project. Check with the

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professor.

Question: What would be an ideal project?

Answer: There never is an ideal project. However, a strategic plan for growth, repositioning,
turnaround, or integration of your business unit would provide a number of excellent issues to
address. Alternatively, a plan to solve a major strategic issue for your company or business unit
would likely also work well. Check if you have questions.

Question: What happens if unforeseen circumstances dictate that the project must change?

Answer: This is a major risk. That is why the idea generation phase should include more than
one idea. The professor will work with you, but a major project re-start can be time-intensive.
So, think carefully about the risks and contingency plans for the project.

At the same time, projects always require some shaping over time. This is why there are project
update reports, which gives the profesor opportunities to review and discuss issues with you.