Overview
The Initiating and Planning Project unit will equip you with the knowledge and skills required to effectively initiate and plan projects in challenging environments. You will study different standards, frameworks and practices with the opportunity to apply these by utilising relevant tools and techniques to enhance project initiation and planning. On successful completion, you will have prepared a range of project management artifacts that underpin effective initiation and planning of projects.
Details
Pre-requisites or Co-requisites
There are no requisites for this unit.
Important note: Students enrolled in a subsequent unit who failed their pre-requisite unit, should drop the subsequent unit before the census date or within 10 working days of Fail grade notification. Students who do not drop the unit in this timeframe cannot later drop the unit without academic and financial liability. See details in the Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework).
Offerings For Term 3 - 2019
Attendance Requirements
All on-campus students are expected to attend scheduled classes – in some units, these classes are identified as a mandatory (pass/fail) component and attendance is compulsory. International students, on a student visa, must maintain a full time study load and meet both attendance and academic progress requirements in each study period (satisfactory attendance for International students is defined as maintaining at least an 80% attendance record).
Recommended Student Time Commitment
Each 6-credit Postgraduate unit at CQUniversity requires an overall time commitment of an average of 12.5 hours of study per week, making a total of 150 hours for the unit.
Class Timetable
Assessment Overview
Assessment Grading
This is a graded unit: your overall grade will be calculated from the marks or grades for each assessment task, based on the relative weightings shown in the table above. You must obtain an overall mark for the unit of at least 50%, or an overall grade of ‘pass’ in order to pass the unit. If any ‘pass/fail’ tasks are shown in the table above they must also be completed successfully (‘pass’ grade). You must also meet any minimum mark requirements specified for a particular assessment task, as detailed in the ‘assessment task’ section (note that in some instances, the minimum mark for a task may be greater than 50%). Consult the University’s Grades and Results Policy for more details of interim results and final grades.
All University policies are available on the CQUniversity Policy site.
You may wish to view these policies:
- Grades and Results Policy
- Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework)
- Review of Grade Procedure
- Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure
- Monitoring Academic Progress (MAP) Policy and Procedure – Domestic Students
- Monitoring Academic Progress (MAP) Policy and Procedure – International Students
- Student Refund and Credit Balance Policy and Procedure
- Student Feedback – Compliments and Complaints Policy and Procedure
- Information and Communications Technology Acceptable Use Policy and Procedure
This list is not an exhaustive list of all University policies. The full list of University policies are available on the CQUniversity Policy site.
Feedback, Recommendations and Responses
Every unit is reviewed for enhancement each year. At the most recent review, the following staff and student feedback items were identified and recommendations were made.
Feedback from Student survey
Students commented on the ease of navigating the Moodle site and access to the resources.
Continue to provide a user friendly Moodle site with relevant and contemporary resources.
- Analyse the underlying project need and justification
- Apply contemporary techniques to identify and analyse stakeholders
- Analyse, define and effectively decompose project scope
- Apply appropriate project estimation techniques
- Critically analyse and define actions to address project uncertainty.
This unit will satisfy one of the requirements for Australian Computer Society (ACS) accreditation in the postgraduate ICT courses.
The unit contributes to the required number of academic study units for students wishing to undertake profession certification with the Project Management Institute's (PMI) professional qualifications, such as CAPM or PMP.
The ACS recognises the Skills Framework for the Information Age (SFIA). SFIA is in use in over 100 countries and provides a widely used and consistent definition of ICT skills. SFIA is increasingly being used when developing job descriptions and role profiles. ACS members can use the tool MySFIA to build a skills profile at https://www.acs.org.au/professionalrecognition/mysfia-b2c.html
This unit contributes to the following workplace skills codes as defined by SFIA:
- Business Analysis (BUAN),
- Project Management (PRMG),
- Stakeholder Relationship Management (RLMT),
- Systems Integration (SINT),
- Change Management (CHMG),
- Release and Deployment (RELM),
- IT Operations (ITOP),
- Problem Management (PBMG).
Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Learning Outcomes
| Assessment Tasks | Learning Outcomes | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | |
| 1 - Online Quiz(zes) - 20% | |||||
| 2 - Written Assessment - 50% | |||||
| 3 - Reflective Practice Assignment - 30% | |||||
Alignment of Graduate Attributes to Learning Outcomes
| Graduate Attributes | Learning Outcomes | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | |
| 1 - Knowledge | |||||
| 2 - Communication | |||||
| 3 - Cognitive, technical and creative skills | |||||
| 4 - Research | |||||
| 5 - Self-management | |||||
| 6 - Ethical and Professional Responsibility | |||||
| 7 - Leadership | |||||
| 8 - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures | |||||
Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Graduate Attributes
| Assessment Tasks | Graduate Attributes | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | |
| 1 - Online Quiz(zes) - 20% | ||||||||
| 2 - Written Assessment - 50% | ||||||||
| 3 - Reflective Practice Assignment - 30% | ||||||||
Textbooks
A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge ( PMBOK guide )
Edition: 6th edn (2017)
Authors: Project Management Institute
Project Management Institute
Newtown Square Newtown Square , PA , USA
ISBN: 9781628251845
Binding: Paperback
Managing successful projects with PRINCE2
Edition: 2017 (2017)
Authors: Bennett , Nigel
TSO
Norwich Norwich , UK
ISBN: 9780113315338
Binding: Paperback
IT Resources
- CQUniversity Student Email
- Internet
- Unit Website (Moodle)
All submissions for this unit must use the referencing style: American Psychological Association 6th Edition (APA 6th edition)
For further information, see the Assessment Tasks.
s.t.doyle@cqu.edu.au
Module/Topic
Introduction to Project Management
Chapter
PMBOK (6th Ed) Part 1: Chapter 1, Chapter 2 & 3, Part 2: 1.8-1.9
PRINCE2 (2017) Chapters 2, 3, 5
Events and Submissions/Topic
Lecture 1
Tutorial 1
Module/Topic
Chapter
PMBOK (6th Ed) Part 1: Chapter 4 Introduction, 4.1, 4.2, 13.1, 13.2
PRINCE2 (2017) Chapter 6
Learn and understand terminology protocols when referring to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples (Moodle)
Acknowledging Traditional Owners (Moodle)
Events and Submissions/Topic
Lecture 2
Tutorial 2
Module/Topic
Stakeholders
Chapter
PMBOK (6th Ed) Chapter 13.1-13.2
Prince2 (2017) Chapter 7
Article: Kolko, J. (2015). Design Thinking Comes of Age. Harvard Business Review, 93(9), 66-71.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Lecture 3
Tutorial 3
Module/Topic
Scope and schedule
Chapter
PMBOK (6th Ed) Part 1: Chapter 5, 6.1-6.5
Prince2 (2017) Appendix A.26 Work Package (Product description outline)
Events and Submissions/Topic
Lecture 4
Tutorial 4
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Cost, resource and risk management
Chapter
PMBOK (6th Ed) Part 1: Chapters 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, 11
Prince2 (2017) Chapter 9.1, 10
Events and Submissions/Topic
Lecture 5
Tutorial 5
Module/Topic
Communicating
Chapter
PMBOK (6th Ed) Part 1: Chapter 10
10 ways to present yourself more professionally by Jack Wallen (Internet resource)
Preparing for your project board meeting by David Wilcox (Internet resource)
Events and Submissions/Topic
Assessment 1: On-line quiz due
Lecture 6
Tutorial 6
Module/Topic
Quality Management
Chapter
PMBOK (6th Ed) Part 1: Chapter 8
Prince2 (2017) Chapter 8, Appendix A22
Events and Submissions/Topic
Lecture 7
Tutorial 7
Module/Topic
Contracts
Procurement
Ethics
Chapter
PMBOK (6th Ed) Part 1: Chapter 12 Introduction, 12.1
PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct (Internet resource)
AIPM Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct (Internet resource)
Events and Submissions/Topic
Assessment 2 due
Lecture 8
Tutorial 8
Module/Topic
Lessons Learnt
Reflection
Chapter
Prince2 (2017) Chapter 3.2, Appendices A.14, A.15
Events and Submissions/Topic
Lecture 9
Tutorial 9
Module/Topic
The Project Manager
Chapter
PMBOK (6th Ed) Part 1: Chapter 3
Prince2 (2017) Chapter 2.4
Events and Submissions/Topic
Lecture 10
Tutorial 10
Module/Topic
Tailoring
Reflective practice
Chapter
PMBOK (6th Ed) Part 1: Chapter 1.2.5
Prince2 (2017) Chapter 3.7, 4
Events and Submissions/Topic
Lecture 11
Tutorial 11
Module/Topic
Reflective practice presentations and unit review/summary
Chapter
Not applicable
Events and Submissions/Topic
Tutorial 12: Unit review/summary and reflective practice presentation (Assessment 3) due
Note: Assessment 3: Written submission due: Monday 10th February, 2020
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
1 Online Quiz(zes)
This quiz tests content from weeks 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. The quiz must be completed during week 6.
If you are sick and unable to do the quiz during this time, you will be required to submit an application (via Moodle) for an extension including appropriate documentation such as a medical certificate. Please note that only extension applications, via Moodle, will be responded to.
You can attempt the quiz at any location as long as you have access to Moodle and an internet connection.
Other
Students can have up to three attempts whilst the quiz is open.
Students will be able to see the marks they get for their quiz attempts.
The quiz questions will be of equal weighting and there are no negative marks applied for incorrect answers. Therefore, students are encouraged to attempt all questions within the quiz. Further details can be found on Moodle.
- Analyse the underlying project need and justification
- Apply contemporary techniques to identify and analyse stakeholders
- Analyse, define and effectively decompose project scope
- Knowledge
- Communication
- Cognitive, technical and creative skills
- Research
- Self-management
2 Written Assessment
Development of a project plan that is reflective of the supplied case and the concepts as outlined in the PMBOK guide and Prince2.
Your submission, using the template (supplied) will be assessed on the following project management concepts, including how they reflect the project scenario and meet the requirements of PMBOK guide and Prince2.
1. Project description and justification (4 marks)
2. Stakeholders (10 marks)
3. Requirements management (5 marks)
4. Scope (10 marks)
5. Schedule (6 marks)
6. Cost Baseline (6 marks)
7. Risks (5 marks)
8. Tolerances (2 mark)
9. Lessons (2 marks)
Ensure your assessment is submitted in an appropriate format. The information within the file must be able to be read by Turnitin (i.e. no zip files, pictures or PDFs). Submissions should be concise, demonstrate clarity of expression and contain correct grammar and spelling.
Assessments provide the opportunity for students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills to achieve the required standard. To do this, assessment responses need to be both clear and easy to understand. If not, the University cannot determine that students have demonstrated their knowledge and skills. Therefore, assessments will be marked accordingly including the possibility for 0 (zero) marks being allocated (where applicable). If you are sick and unable to do the Assessment by the due date, you will be required to submit an application (via Moodle) for an extension including appropriate documentation such as a medical certificate. Please note that only extension applications, via Moodle, will be responded to.
- Analyse the underlying project need and justification
- Apply contemporary techniques to identify and analyse stakeholders
- Analyse, define and effectively decompose project scope
- Apply appropriate project estimation techniques
- Critically analyse and define actions to address project uncertainty.
- Knowledge
- Communication
- Cognitive, technical and creative skills
- Research
- Self-management
3 Reflective Practice Assignment
Completion of PPMP20008 is like a project, as it is likely you experienced situations that went well and that didn't go well. Reflecting on your experiences can be just as meaningful as retaining concepts taught.
This assessment item requires students to reflect on their participation in the unit, identify lessons learnt, and consider what actions can be taken to address lessons and improve future study projects. The written submission involves both student initiated reflection and guided (tutor led) reflection. Please note that learnings are based on your role as a student in PPMP20008 and not based on the supplied project, used for this unit.
Students will need to determine a framework to base their lessons learnt on. In practice lessons learnt discussions are usually framed in certain ways to illicit key learnings. Consider what is the most effective way to do this within the context of the course and your experience during the term.
Students must complete a written submission on a template (supplied) from lessons learnt by 8am, Monday of week 12. In addition, in week 12 students must complete a 2 minute presentation (in Microsoft PowerPoint) on a template (supplied) comprising one lesson learnt. You must be prepared to answer questions from unit participants and your tutor after your presentation. Please note that depending on class sizes some students may need to present in earlier weeks.
Flex (distance) student must also complete a written submission using the template (supplied) by 8am, Monday of week 12. Flex students do not present in person, however, they must submit a video of their 2 minute presentation, together with the PowerPoint slide (on a template supplied), by 5pm Friday of week 12, comprising one lesson learnt.
You will be graded on the quality of your presentation and the written submission which contains the lessons learnt framework, lessons shared and actions planned to address lessons for future study.
This assessment item assists students to reflect on their performance in a project, identify lessons learnt, devise strategies to leverage those lessons and develop presentation skills.
Further information can be found on the Moodle site.
Presentations will be held in week 12 classes during tutorial times. Therefore, students must ensure they discuss the presenting times with their tutor. The written submission is to be submitted to Moodle by 8am Monday of Week 12.
Your assignment (individual presentation and written submission) will be assessed on the extent and quality to which it meets each of the following criteria:-
- Introduction (2 marks)
- Lesson learnt framework - planned and actual (6 marks)
- The lessons and improvement strategies (16 marks)
- Conclusion and references (2 marks)
- Two (2) minute presentation (4 marks)
Presentation: The presentation is approximately 2 minutes in duration and formatted using PowerPoint. Note: a maximum of two (2) slides is permitted. The first slide should contain the unit details, your name, student number, campus, tutor name and presentation title. The second slide will comprise the content of your presentation and must include only one (1) lesson learnt. A template (via Moodle) will be provided for the presentation.
On-campus students - every student must present to be awarded presentation marks, together with uploading the presentation slide and written submission onto Moodle. If you are unable to attend class and present during the time scheduled, then you must submit a request for an extension (via Moodle) with supporting documentary evidence such as a doctors certificate. Please note that only extension applications, via Moodle, will be responded to. If the extension request is approved, you will then need to contact your campus lecturer/tutor to arrange completion of your presentation. Flex students need to upload a video of their two minute presentation, the presentation slide and the written submission.
Written Submission: The written submission should contain a lessons learnt framework, lessons shared, actions planned to address lessons for future study and include appropriate references. This submission comprises both student initiated reflection and guided (tutor led) reflection. Within the written submission please ensure clarity of expression, correct grammar, spelling and APA referencing. A template (via Moodle) will be provided for this written submission. Extension applications for this submission must also be submitted via Moodle and accompanied by supporting documentation (i.e. medical certificate). Please note that only extension applications, via Moodle, will be responded to.
Assessments provide the opportunity for students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills to achieve the required standard. To achieve this, assessment responses need to be clear and easy to understand. If not, the University cannot determine that students have demonstrated their knowledge and skills. Therefore, assessments will be marked accordingly including the possibility for 0 (zero) marks being awarded (where applicable).
Further information can be found on the Moodle site.
- Apply appropriate project estimation techniques
- Critically analyse and define actions to address project uncertainty.
- Knowledge
- Communication
- Cognitive, technical and creative skills
- Research
- Self-management
As a CQUniversity student you are expected to act honestly in all aspects of your academic work.
Any assessable work undertaken or submitted for review or assessment must be your own work. Assessable work is any type of work you do to meet the assessment requirements in the unit, including draft work submitted for review and feedback and final work to be assessed.
When you use the ideas, words or data of others in your assessment, you must thoroughly and clearly acknowledge the source of this information by using the correct referencing style for your unit. Using others’ work without proper acknowledgement may be considered a form of intellectual dishonesty.
Participating honestly, respectfully, responsibly, and fairly in your university study ensures the CQUniversity qualification you earn will be valued as a true indication of your individual academic achievement and will continue to receive the respect and recognition it deserves.
As a student, you are responsible for reading and following CQUniversity’s policies, including the Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure. This policy sets out CQUniversity’s expectations of you to act with integrity, examples of academic integrity breaches to avoid, the processes used to address alleged breaches of academic integrity, and potential penalties.
What is a breach of academic integrity?
A breach of academic integrity includes but is not limited to plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion, cheating, contract cheating, and academic misconduct. The Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure defines what these terms mean and gives examples.
Why is academic integrity important?
A breach of academic integrity may result in one or more penalties, including suspension or even expulsion from the University. It can also have negative implications for student visas and future enrolment at CQUniversity or elsewhere. Students who engage in contract cheating also risk being blackmailed by contract cheating services.
Where can I get assistance?
For academic advice and guidance, the Academic Learning Centre (ALC) can support you in becoming confident in completing assessments with integrity and of high standard.
What can you do to act with integrity?
