BTEC Assignment Brief

BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Information Technology

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Information Technology
Qualification

Unit number and title

Unit 9: IT Project Management
D: Undertake the closure of a project by reflecting on the
Learning aim(s) (For
success of personal performance and the project outcome.
NQF only)
How did the project go?
Assignment title
Stephen MacInnes
Assessor

Issue date
12/06/23
Hand in deadline
16/06/23

You have recently been recruited by a new software

development company. Having completed your first project
your supervisor has asked you to analyse how the
management of the project went.
Vocational Scenario or
Context

You need to write a report in which you analyse the project

you have completed looking at the project management
skills and behaviours you applied and how effective they
were. You should also make recommendations for the
improvement of your project management skills and
behaviours in the future. Your analysis needs to show
consistently good technical understanding of project
Task 1
management and software development processes.

Checklist of evidence Completed report

required

Criteria covered by this task:

Unit/Criteria
To achieve the criteria you must show that you are able to:
reference
 Demonstrate consistently good technical understanding and analysis of
D.D4 the project, including the effective application of relevant project
management skills and behaviours.
Recommend improvements to the project management skills and
D.M4
behaviours applied during an IT project.
Explain how project management skills were used in the management
D.P8
of an IT project.
Explain how relevant behaviours were applied during the management
D.P9
of an IT project.

Sources of information
to support you with
this Assignment
Lawton, I. PRINCE2 Made Simple, P2MS Press, 2015. 978-
0992816339
Cole,R. and Scotcher, E. Brilliant Agile Project Management:
A Practical Guide to Using Agile, Scrum and Kanban,
Pearson 2015. 978-1292063560
Newton, R. Project Management Step by Step: How to Plan
and Manage a Highly Successful Project, Pearson 2016.
978-1292142197

Other assessment e.g., work sheets, risk assessments, case study

materials attached to
this Assignment Brief

LEARNER ASSESSMENT SUBMISSION AND DECLARATION

When submitting evidence for assessment, each learner must sign a declaration confirming
that the work is their own.

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 Learner name: Sadaat Tijani Assessor name: Stephen MacInnes

Start date: 12/06/22 Hand in deadline: 16/06/22 Submitted on:

Qualification: Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma in Information Technology

Unit name(s): Unit 9: IT Project Management

Assignment title: How did the project go?

Please list the evidence submitted for each task. Indicate the page numbers where the evidence
can be found or describe the nature of the evidence (e.g. video, illustration).

Page numbers or
Task reference Evidence submitted
description

Additional comments to the Assessor:

Learner declaration

I certify that the work submitted for this assignment is my own. I have clearly referenced any
sources used in the work. I understand that false declaration is a form of malpractice.

Learner signature: Date:

Mathematics Assessment Feedback (for embedded mathematics)

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 Mathematics Assessment

1 0
3 2
Chose correct Some correct Unable to work
calculations All of the time Most of the time calculations chosen independently to
independently independently select calculations

0
3 2 1
Carried out
Incorrect working
calculations All of the time Most of the time Some of the time
out.
accurately

1 0
2
Used appropriate
3
units Units used accurately Units used are
Units used
some of the time. incorrect or units are
All of the time accurately
(MB, GB, KB, etc) Some omissions or not shown for most
throughout the work
errors calculations

0
3 2 1
Unable to work
Work is set out in a
independently to
logical way which All of the time Most of the time Some of the time.
show methods and
shows methods used
logical calculations.

Total

Written Assessment (Feedback for embedded English) Level 1, 2 and

over

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 Written Assessment
0
Work is clear, 2 1
organised and is 3
Insufficiently clear,
relevant for the All of the time Most of the time Some of the time
organised or relevant
intended reader

Format is suitable for

the reader and
purpose (e.g. 1 0
N/A N/A
formal / informal / Yes No
letter / email /
report etc)

1
Spelling (generally) 2 0
including 100 generic N/A
Some
words list Mostly accurate Not accurate
Accuracy

Words from ‘100 key

3 2 1 0
words’ for vocational
area are spelt
All of the time Mostly accurate Some Not accurate
correctly.
accuracy

Punctuation 3 2 1 0
(including cap
letters) Mostly accurate Reasonably accurate Some accuracy Insufficient accuracy

Grammar (tenses, 1
3 2 0
sentence structure,
subject verb Some
Mostly accurate Reasonably accurate Insufficient accuracy
agreement etc.) accuracy

Total

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 Explain how project management skills were used in the management
D.P8
of an IT project.
In steering the management of the project, a multifaceted application of project management
skills became the linchpin for orchestrating the complex interplay of tasks, teams, and
timelines inherent in the development of an innovative IT solution. The successful execution of
this solution demanded a nuanced and strategic approach, where project management skills
were not merely tools but the very fabric weaving together the intricate elements of the
endeavour.

1.Project Initiation and Planning:

At the outset, effective project initiation and planning skills set the groundwork for success. I
meticulously defined the project scope, objectives, and deliverables, aligning them with the
overarching goal of enhancing user experience in healthcare applications. A comprehensive
project plan was crafted, delineating each phase, its associated tasks, and resource allocation.
The initiation phase also involved stakeholder identification, ensuring that all relevant parties,
including end-users and clients, were considered in the planning process.

2. Risk Management:
Project management skills were keenly applied in the identification, assessment, and
mitigation of risks throughout the project. Recognizing the inherent uncertainties in IT
projects, a robust risk management plan was developed. This involved conducting thorough
risk assessments, anticipating potential challenges, and formulating proactive strategies to
mitigate adverse impacts. By maintaining a risk register and continuously monitoring potential
issues, the project management approach ensured that the team was well-prepared to
navigate unforeseen challenges effectively.

3. Team Leadership and Motivation:

A cornerstone of successful project management in the project was the application of strong
leadership and motivation skills. As the project leader, I assumed the role of a catalyst,
inspiring and guiding the diverse team comprising UX/UI designers, developers, and a product
owner. Through effective communication, transparent goal setting, and recognition of
individual contributions, I cultivated a motivated and cohesive team dynamic. Team-building

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activities and acknowledgment of achievements further fuelled the collective drive toward
project success.

4. Time Management and Scheduling:

The project's timely progression relied heavily on adept time management and scheduling
skills. Applying these project management skills, I created a realistic timeline for each phase
and sprint, considering dependencies and potential bottlenecks. Regular monitoring of task
completion ensured adherence to deadlines, with agile principles allowing for dynamic
adjustments to the schedule based on evolving requirements and emerging priorities.

5. Communication and Stakeholder Engagement:

The communication skills inherent in effective project management were instrumental in
maintaining transparency, ensuring alignment, and fostering stakeholder engagement
throughout the project. Regular status updates, sprint reviews, and stakeholder meetings were
meticulously orchestrated to keep all relevant parties informed about project progress,
challenges, and upcoming milestones. By establishing clear communication channels, the
project management approach aimed to bridge any potential gaps and cultivate a shared
understanding among team members and stakeholders alike.

6. Budgeting and Resource Management:

An astute application of budgeting and resource management skills was crucial in overseeing
the financial aspects of the project. From resource allocation to tracking expenses, the project
management approach ensured that the project stayed within budgetary constraints. By
conducting thorough cost-benefit analyses and optimizing resource allocation, the project
management skills contributed to the project's financial viability and overall success.

7. Quality Assurance and Testing:

Project management skills played a pivotal role in ensuring the quality and reliability of the
project. Implementing rigorous quality assurance processes, I oversaw the testing phases,
ensuring that each iteration underwent meticulous examination for bugs, design flaws, and
usability issues. The project management approach emphasized the importance of maintaining
a high standard of quality, ensuring that the final product met both user expectations and
industry standards.

8. Agile Methodology Application:

A central tenet of the project management was the application of Agile methodology skills.
Agile principles, including iterative development, regular reassessment, and adaptability, were
seamlessly integrated into the project management approach. Embracing Agile ensured that
the project remained responsive to changing requirements, user feedback, and emerging
technologies, thereby enhancing its overall flexibility and resilience in the face of evolving
circumstances.

9. Conflict Resolution and Problem-Solving:

The dynamic nature of IT projects often introduces conflicts and challenges that demand adept
conflict resolution and problem-solving skills. In the project management, these skills were
actively applied to address interpersonal conflicts within the team, navigate technical
challenges, and devise effective solutions to emerging issues. By fostering a culture of open
communication and providing avenues for conflict resolution, the project management
approach contributed to a collaborative and solution-oriented team dynamic.

10. Evaluation and Continuous Improvement:

As the project progressed through its lifecycle, evaluation and continuous improvement skills
were integral to ensuring ongoing project success. Regular retrospectives and performance
evaluations were conducted, allowing the team to reflect on accomplishments, identify areas
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for improvement, and collectively learn from experiences. This commitment to continuous
improvement aligned with the iterative design process, ensuring that each sprint contributed to
the project's growing efficiency and efficacy. In essence, the management of the project was a
testament to the holistic and adept application of an array of project management skills. From
the initiation and planning phases, through risk management, team leadership, and agile
methodology application, to the meticulous evaluation and continuous improvement, each
skillset was a brushstroke contributing to the canvas of successful IT solution management.
The synthesis of these project management skills not only facilitated the development of a
user-centric healthcare application but also epitomized a comprehensive and strategic
approach to project management in the dynamic realm of information technology.

Explain how relevant behaviours were applied during the management

D.P9
of an IT project.
In the management of the project, the application of relevant behaviours played a pivotal role
in ensuring the success of the human-centred design approach. As the orchestrator of this
solution, my commitment to effective leadership, collaboration, adaptability, and empathy
became instrumental in navigating the complexities inherent in healthcare application
development. The following detailed exploration of these behaviours showcases their
application in each phase of the management process:
1. Leadership and Vision:
Effective leadership was foundational to the successful management of the project. As the
leader, I established a clear vision for the project, emphasizing the importance of creating a
healthcare application that genuinely resonates with end-users. This involved setting strategic
goals, defining the scope of the project, and fostering a shared understanding among the team
regarding the significance of a human-centred design approach. By articulating a compelling
vision, I inspired the team to align their efforts toward a common goal, instilling a sense of
purpose that fuelled creativity and dedication throughout the project.

2. Collaboration and Team Empowerment:

The success of the project hinged on collaboration, and fostering a culture of open
communication and shared ownership was paramount. I implemented collaborative practices
by encouraging cross-functional teamwork, ensuring that UX/UI designers, developers, and the
product owner worked seamlessly together. Team empowerment was achieved by
acknowledging individual strengths and expertise, valuing diverse perspectives, and fostering
an environment where every team member felt empowered to contribute ideas and insights.
This collaborative and empowered team dynamic fuelled creativity and innovation, facilitating
the ideation and prototyping phase where diverse viewpoints were crucial for creating a design
that caters to a broad spectrum of healthcare users.

3. Adaptability and Agile Methodology:

Adaptability emerged as a crucial behaviour throughout the management of the project,
particularly given the dynamic nature of both healthcare and technology. Embracing the
principles of the agile methodology, I led the team in adapting to changing requirements, user
feedback, and emerging technologies. The iterative design process inherently accommodated
adaptability, allowing the team to make swift adjustments based on usability testing results.
This flexibility was especially pertinent in the fast-evolving landscape of healthcare technology,
where staying adaptable ensured that the application could incorporate new features and
technologies seamlessly.
4. Empathy-Driven Decision Making:
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Central to the human-centred design approach is the application of empathy in decision-
making. Recognizing the emotional and sensitive nature of healthcare, I championed empathy-
driven decision-making throughout the project. This involved regularly putting we in the shoes
of end-users, whether they be patients, caregivers, or healthcare professionals. By prioritizing
empathy, the team made design decisions that not only addressed functional needs but also
considered the emotional context of healthcare interactions. This approach ensured that the
application was not only user-friendly but also emotionally supportive, fostering trust and
confidence among users in their healthcare journey.

5. Effective Communication:
Effective communication was a keystone behaviour in managing the project. I established clear
channels of communication, facilitating open and transparent dialogues within the team.
Regular stand-up meetings, sprint reviews, and collaborative platforms were utilized to ensure
that everyone was well-informed about the project's progress, challenges, and goals. Effective
communication also extended to stakeholders and end-users, with regular updates and
feedback sessions to keep them engaged in the development process. Clear and transparent
communication was crucial for building trust, managing expectations, and ensuring that
everyone involved in the project felt informed and heard.

6. Continuous Improvement and Learning Orientation:

A commitment to continuous improvement and a learning orientation was embedded in the
management of the project. Regular retrospectives provided the team with the opportunity to
reflect on the project's progress, identify successes and areas for improvement, and
collectively learn from experiences. These behaviours facilitated a culture of ongoing learning,
where each sprint and phase contributed to the team's growing expertise and efficiency. The
learning orientation was particularly evident in the iterative design process, where feedback
from usability testing sessions was eagerly embraced as an opportunity for refinement and
enhancement.

7. Stakeholder Engagement and Relationship Management:

Stakeholder engagement and effective relationship management were crucial behaviours
applied throughout the project. Recognizing the diverse stakeholders involved, including end-
users, clients, and the development team, I prioritized building strong relationships. Regular
client meetings ensured alignment with their expectations and provided opportunities for
feedback. Additionally, involving stakeholders in usability testing sessions created a sense of
shared ownership and allowed for real-time insights. Effective relationship management
extended to the team, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment that was
conducive to innovation and problem-solving. In summary, the management of the project
was characterized by a robust application of relevant behaviours, encompassing leadership,
collaboration, adaptability, empathy, effective communication, continuous improvement, and
stakeholder engagement. These behaviours were not only strategically applied but also deeply
ingrained in the project's culture, shaping every decision, interaction, and iteration. The
successful execution of Solution 1 can be attributed to the holistic integration of these
behaviours, demonstrating their collective impact on creating a human-centred, adaptable, and
user-centric healthcare application.

Recommend improvements to the project management skills and

D.M4
behaviours applied during an IT project.

In reflecting on the project management skills and behaviours applied during Project, several
areas emerge where enhancements could further elevate the success of future endeavours.
Firstly, a heightened emphasis on risk management is recommended, incorporating a more
comprehensive approach to identifying and addressing potential challenges. While the initial
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risk register proved valuable, a more dynamic and real-time risk assessment framework could
be adopted to promptly respond to emerging threats. This involves regular and proactive risk
reviews throughout each project phase, ensuring that the team remains vigilant in anticipating
and mitigating potential disruptions.

Secondly, the application of change management could be bolstered to enhance the team's
adaptability to evolving circumstances. While Project showcased flexibility in responding to
changes, a more formalized change management process could streamline the integration of
modifications. This includes clearly defined procedures for evaluating change requests,
assessing their impact on project objectives, and communicating adjustments transparently to
the team and stakeholders. A structured approach to change management would contribute to
smoother transitions, minimizing any potential disruptions resulting from modifications to
project requirements or scope. Furthermore, there is room for improvement in stakeholder
engagement and management. While regular client meetings and usability testing sessions
were conducted, establishing more robust feedback mechanisms could deepen stakeholder
involvement. Implementing dedicated feedback sessions at critical project junctures could
provide stakeholders with a platform to express concerns, preferences, and expectations. This
approach ensures a more iterative and collaborative process, aligning the project more closely
with stakeholder needs and fostering a sense of shared ownership. Additionally, enhancing the
application of effective communication practices could further refine the team's synergy. While
regular stand-up meetings and collaborative platforms were employed, the introduction of
more interactive communication channels, such as virtual brainstorming sessions or
collaborative ideation workshops, could stimulate greater creativity and engagement. This
approach encourages open dialogue, cultivates a culture of shared problem-solving, and
ensures that diverse perspectives are actively integrated into decision-making processes. In
terms of resource allocation and team building, an expanded focus on professional
development opportunities and skill-building initiatives is recommended. While recognizing
individual strengths and competencies, a proactive approach to identifying skill gaps within the
team and providing targeted training could further augment the team's capabilities.
Encouraging a culture of continuous learning, through workshops, seminars, or online courses,
not only enhances individual skill sets but also contributes to the overall resilience and
adaptability of the team. Furthermore, a more comprehensive approach to quality assurance
and control is proposed. While regular code reviews and usability testing were integral,
implementing automated testing tools and continuous integration practices could fortify the
project's overall quality. Automated testing ensures a more rigorous examination of the
codebase, identifying potential issues swiftly and contributing to a more robust and reliable
application. Lastly, the incorporation of more structured team-building activities and
motivational strategies is recommended to bolster team morale. While recognizing
achievements was part of the project management strategy, introducing regular team-building
activities or wellness programs could foster a more positive and cohesive team culture.
Additionally, setting clear career development paths and conducting periodic performance
reviews contribute to sustained motivation, creating an environment where team members feel
valued and supported in their professional growth. To finalize, improvements to the project
management skills and behaviours applied during Project 1 involve a nuanced focus on risk
management, change management, stakeholder engagement, communication practices,
resource allocation, quality assurance, and team building. By refining these aspects, future
projects can benefit from an even more resilient, adaptive, and collaborative approach,
ensuring the successful development of innovative solutions in the dynamic landscape of IT
projects.

Demonstrate consistently good technical understanding and analysis of

D.D4 the project, including the effective application of relevant project
management skills and behaviours.

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Throughout the project lifecycle, a consistently strong technical understanding and analysis
were applied, coupled with the effective utilization of project management skills and
behaviours. From the project's inception to its completion, a meticulous approach was
employed to ensure that the technical aspects were aligned with overarching project
objectives, while simultaneously adhering to industry best practices and standards. This
demonstration was evident in various key areas.

1.Comprehensive Technical Planning:

The project commenced with a comprehensive technical planning phase where a detailed
roadmap was established, delineating the various technical requirements, milestones, and
deliverables. This involved a thorough analysis of the project scope, identifying both functional
and non-functional requirements. By applying effective project management skills, a strategic
plan was formulated that not only considered technical complexities but also aligned with the
broader organizational and stakeholder goals. A clear understanding of the technical landscape
was crucial in outlining a realistic timeline and allocating resources judiciously.

2.Strategic Resource Allocation and Skill Utilization:

A strong technical understanding was consistently applied in the strategic allocation of
resources, ensuring that the project team possessed the requisite skills for each phase.
Through effective project management, strengths and competencies of individual team
members were recognized and leveraged. This approach fostered a collaborative environment
where diverse technical expertise was strategically harnessed. Additionally, the allocation of
resources was continually monitored and adjusted to optimize efficiency and address any
emerging technical challenges, showcasing an ongoing technical analysis to ensure resource
effectiveness.

3. Agile Methodology Implementation:

The adoption of Agile methodology underscored the project's commitment to adaptability and
iterative development. A keen technical understanding was instrumental in the effective
implementation of Agile practices. Daily stand-up meetings, sprint planning, and sprint reviews
were executed with precision, enabling the team to respond promptly to changing technical
requirements and emerging insights. This approach aligned with the dynamic nature of the
project, ensuring that technical aspects were continuously analysed, refined, and integrated
seamlessly.

4.Robust Risk Management:

A consistently good technical understanding was applied in the identification and mitigation of
potential risks. The project management skills of risk management were employed to create a
comprehensive risk register, assessing both technical and operational uncertainties. This
proactive approach ensured that potential technical challenges were anticipated, and mitigation
strategies were devised in advance. Continuous monitoring of the risk landscape allowed for
the adjustment of technical strategies in response to evolving project dynamics.

5.Quality Assurance and Control:

Throughout the project, a robust understanding of technical quality assurance and control
practices was consistently demonstrated. Regular code reviews were conducted to maintain
code quality, adherence to coding standards, and identify any potential technical debt.
Usability testing and quality assurance measures were employed to ensure that the technical
deliverables met the highest standards. The technical analysis conducted during these phases
was critical in identifying areas for improvement, fine-tuning technical elements, and delivering
a product that not only met functional requirements but also exceeded quality expectations.

6.Effective Communication of Technical Aspects:

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A strong technical understanding was coupled with effective communication skills to ensure
that complex technical aspects were conveyed clearly to the entire project team and
stakeholders. Regular communication channels were established to discuss technical
challenges, updates, and milestones. This approach promoted transparency, enabling non-
technical stakeholders to comprehend the progress and potential impacts on project timelines.
Technical documentation was consistently maintained and communicated, serving as a
valuable resource for the team and future project stakeholders.

7.Continuous Improvement and Learning Orientation:

A commitment to continuous learning and improvement was evident in the technical domain.
Regular retrospectives were conducted, allowing the project team to reflect on technical
processes, identify areas for enhancement, and implement corrective actions. This learning-
oriented approach was applied to both technical and project management practices, fostering
an environment where technical strategies were refined iteratively based on past experiences
and emerging industry trends. In conclusion, the project demonstrated consistently good
technical understanding and analysis, coupled with the effective application of relevant project
management skills and behaviours. From strategic planning to resource allocation, risk
management, quality assurance, and communication, a holistic approach was taken to ensure
the technical success of the project. This meticulous integration of technical acumen and
project management skills contributed to the project's overall success, delivering a high-
quality product that met both technical requirements and stakeholder expectations.

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