Question

What are five characteristics which help differentiate projects from other functions carried out in the daily operations of the organization? Why are these not the same?

How are projects linked to the strategic plan? Provide an example (choose from your own experience or outside research).

Original discussion thread post due by *Thursday at 11:55PM (EST)*.

Answer 1

What are five characteristics which help differentiate projects from other functions carried out in the daily operations of the organization? Why are these not the same?

The five characteristics that help differentiate projects from other functions carried out in the daily operations of an organization differ slightly, but they are to serve customers needs first and foremost, a project needs to have a beginning and an end or defined timeline, more than one area of expertise needs to be involved, it needs to stand out and be different, and an overview of time, costs, and performance needs to be set. A project is very complex and requires a plan in many different areas in order to complete it.

How are projects linked to the strategic plan? Provide an example (choose from your own experience or outside research).

Projects are linked to the strategic plan because projects represent how a strategy is to be implemented into a business’s plan.The most important part of this strategy is organization, it is needed to maximize the use of resources. Getting these resources and using them to your advantage will contribute to the strategic plan.

An example of a failed plan, is my place of work. They set up an effort for new marketing plans and were going to try some new nightly specials. When they attempted marketing they did not have the supplies they needed such as flyers. They finally attempted a new nightly special wine and food combination and forgot to order what was supposed to be on the menu. As a result, they wasted their time, money, and efforts. This is a great example of a plan that was not thought out on all five characteristics that complete a strategic plan.