COURSE TITLE: IT PROJECT MANAGEMENT

STUDENT NAME: DANIEL DELALI

DAMALIE
ASSESSMENT TITLE: TAKE-HOME
ASSIGNMENT
LECTURER: MR. DOMINIC K. LOUIS
COURSE CODE: IT463
a. Project management software provides a variety of tasks that cannot be readily
accomplished with tools, such as spreadsheets or databases performed by project
management software. The following states that:
One of the key functions of project management software is its capacity to handle
complex project structures and dependencies which is challenging to do with a
spreadsheet. For instance, MS Project 2019, enables project managers to quickly setup
project tasks and work breakdown structures otherwise known as WBS, as well as to view
dependencies, critical parts, and even the duration of tasks (Bonnin & Cook, 2013).
The ability to handle resources is yet another crucial feature of project management
software. While spreadsheets can be used to manage resources, it uses a manual process that
usually requires significant time and effort. Tools for effective resource management are
provided by project management software such as MS Project 2019, that includes the ability
to monitor availability, allocation, and utilization. Furthermore, managers are able to assign
duties, setup notifications, and the ability to communicate swiftly with stakeholders using
project management software that in the long run which makes it simpler to keep all parties
informed (Gómez-Muñoz, et al., 2015) (Shenhar, 2001).
Another function of project management software is to produce reports and analytics.
Even though results can be generated using spreadsheets, the process is time-consuming and
requires significant manual efforts. Project management software automates these processes
allowing it to generate real-time analytics and reports that tend to provide managers with
insightful information about the project’s development. For instance: MS Project 2019
provides a variety of tailored reports that can be generated quickly and easily (Martin, 2016)
(Project Management Institute, 2017).
b. MS Project 2019, Trello, Asana, and Wrike are among the project management tools
available on the market. When comparing these tools, it is critical to take into account
factors such as price, key features, and other relevant criteria. MS Project 2019 is a paid
tool, with subscription payments starting at $10.00. It includes advanced project
management features such as Gantt charts, work breakdown structures (WBS), resource
management, and customizable reports. MS Project 2019 is a potent project management
tool that can handle large and complex projects. It may, however, be incredibly expensive
for smaller organisations or projects.
Trello, on the other hand, is free to use but offers premium features for a fee. It is a
web-based platform that manages tasks and projects through a card-based system. Trello is
known for its ease of use and simplicity, making it ideal for smaller projects or
organisations. However, it lacks some of MS Project 2019's advanced project management
features, such as resource management and customizable reports (Trello, 2023).
Another project management tool known for its collaborative features is Asana. It enables
teams to collaborate on tasks and projects by assigning tasks, setting deadlines, and
tracking progress. Asana is also free to use, with paid premium features available (Asana,
2023).
Wrike is a paid tool, with monthly fees starting at $9.80 per user. It includes task
management, Gantt charts, and resource management among its project management and
collaboration features. Wrike is well-suited to larger and more complex projects, and it
includes advanced features such as project templates, Gantt charts, and customizable
reports. It may, however, be too costly for smaller organisations or projects (Wrike, 2023).
MS Project 2019 and Wrike are both suitable for managing larger and more complex
projects in terms of scalability. Trello and Asana are more appropriate for smaller projects
or organisations. All of these tools offer integrations with other popular tools such as
Slack, Dropbox, and Google Drive, making it easier to manage projects across multiple
platforms.
Finally, when comparing project management tools such as MS Project 2019, Trello,
Asana, and Wrike, it is critical to consider cost, key features, ease of use, scalability, and
integrations with other tools. Each tool has advantages and disadvantages, and the choice
is ultimately determined by the needs of the organisation or project.
c. Organizations can justify investing in enterprise or portfolio project management software
in several ways. The following are some key justifications:
Increased Efficiency, Enterprise or Portfolio project management software enables
organizations to simplify processes that are involved with project management, resulting
in increased efficiency. Project management software can help teams work more
efficiently by helping to complete projects on time and within budget by automating
repetitive tasks, reducing manual errors, and providing real-time data (Project
Management Institute, 2017).
Improved Resource Allocation, Portfolio project management software enables
organisations to better manage their resources. It allows teams to view resource
availability, track resource utilisation, and allocate resources based on project priorities in
a centralised location. This can assist organisations in optimising their resources, lowering
the risk of over or under-utilization (Shenhar, 2001).
Better decision-making, Enterprise project management software provides real-time
data and insights that can assist teams in making more informed decisions. Organizations
can improve their processes and optimise their resources by analysing project data,
resulting in better decision-making (Kerzner, 2017).
Improved Risk Management, Enterprise project management software provides real-
time data and insights that can assist teams in making more informed decisions.
Organizations can improve their processes and optimise their resources by analysing project
data, resulting in better decision-making (Crawford, 2020).
Improved collaboration, Project management software enables teams to effectively
collaborate regardless of their location. It gives team members a central database to access
project-related data, documents, and communication, which can help teams collaborate more
effectively and stay on track (Martin, 2016).
Competitive advantage, Organizations can gain a competitive advantage by improving
project management processes, reducing project schedules, and delivering projects more
effectively by investing in project management software. This can lead to higher customer
satisfaction and better business results (Crawford, 2020).
d. Several factors have contributed to an increase in interest in the field of project
management in recent years. The increasing complexity of projects in various industries
such as construction, information technology, and healthcare are one of the primary
reasons. As a result, in order to meet the changing demands of their stakeholders,
organisations must manage projects more efficiently and effectively (Crawford & Pollack,
2004).
The globalisation of business is another reason for the renewed interest in project
management. Companies are expanding their operations across borders, posing new
challenges for project managers who must navigate cultural differences as well as
regulatory requirements in various regions. Project management provides a structured
approach to dealing with these challenges and ensuring project success (Gareis &
Huemann, 2015).
Furthermore, there has been a shift in many organisations towards more collaborative and
agile ways of working. Agile, Scrum, and Lean project management methodologies are
gaining popularity because they promote flexibility, collaboration, and continuous
improvement. As a result, project management is increasingly being regarded as a
strategic tool for advancing organisational goals and driving innovation (Kerzner, 2017).
Also, technological advancements have enabled project managers to work more efficiently
and effectively. Project management software and tools enable teams to communicate,
collaborate, and track progress in real time, resulting in significantly improved project
delivery (Shenhar, 2001).
Finally, project management's recognition as a profession has contributed to its increased
interest. Professional organisations such as the Project Management Institute (PMI) and
the Association for Project Management (APM) have established industry standards,
certifications, and best practices, elevated the field's status and provided a framework for
professional development.
Finally, the increased complexity of projects, globalisation of business, shift towards
collaborative and agile ways of working, technological advancements, and recognition of
project management as a profession have all contributed to the renewed interest in project
management. Project management will become increasingly important in delivering
successful outcomes as organisations continue to face new challenges.
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