BMZ ACADEMY
BMZ ACADEMY
@061 262 1185/068 053 8213/0717 513 144
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS ............................................................................................. 2
Question 4.1 ............................................................................................................... 2
Question 4.2 ............................................................................................................... 5
Question 4.3 ............................................................................................................... 8
Question 4.4 ............................................................................................................. 12
Question 4.5 ............................................................................................................. 16
REFERENCES ......................................................................................................... 24
Question 4.1
Defend the following statement:” When uncertainty drops to nearly zero, and
when effort is repeated a large number of times, the work is no longer
considered a project.” [Use - A topology of projects Figure 1.3 (page 5) in the
prescribed book. Do Not Draw the Figure!]. [20]
The statement, "When uncertainty drops to nearly zero, and when effort is repeated a
large number of times, the work is no longer considered a project," reflects key
distinctions between projects and operational work. The defense of this statement can
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be elaborated by highlighting the inherent characteristics of projects and contrasting
them with operational activities. This formulates the discussion that follows.
Characteristics of Operational Work
Operational work involves ongoing, repetitive processes that are part of the
organization’s routine activities. Examples include manufacturing, customer service,
and maintenance. Driscoll, Parnell, and Henderson (2022) highlighted that operational
activities are highly predictable with established procedures and minimal uncertainty.
They are performed regularly and have well-defined outputs.
Repetition and Standardization
When an activity is first undertaken as a project, it involves significant planning,
experimentation, and refinement. This phase is characterized by high uncertainty and
a focus on delivering unique outcomes. As the activity becomes well-understood and
processes are standardized, the level of uncertainty diminishes. When the activity can
be performed repeatedly with predictable results, it transitions from a project to an
operational process.
Definition of a Project
According to the Project Management Institute (PMI), a project is a temporary
endeavour undertaken to create a unique product, service, or result. The uniqueness
and temporary nature are crucial defining characteristics. Projects typically involve a
significant level of uncertainty and risk because they aim to produce something new
or significantly different from existing products or services (Nahar, Zhou, Lewis and
Kästner, 2022)
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