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Unit 6: Managing a Successful Business Project
Assignment Brief
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Unit Number and Title |
HNBS Unit 306 - Managing a Successful Business Project |
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Academic Year |
2024/25 |
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Unit Tutor |
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Assignment Title |
Professional Research Report |
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Issue Date |
w/c 21/10/2024 |
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Submission Date |
11:59 pm on Friday, 27th December 2024 |
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I/V Name & Date |
Business Management Department, October 2024 |
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Unit Learning Outcomes |
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LO1 Explain the key stages of the project lifecycle that should be considered when project managing. LO2 Produce a Project Management Plan (PMP) for a business project using primary and secondary research methods. LO3 Implement the Project Management Plan (PMP) to communicate results from the research and make conclusions from the evidence of findings. LO4 Reflect on value gained from implementing the project and the project management process. |
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Introduction to the Theme |
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The Pearson-set theme for use with Unit 6: Managing a Successful Business Project is the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly evolving, becoming a valuable tool for industry businesses to streamline operations, reduce production costs, and meet company objectives. It is expected to significantly change recruitment, labour needs and human resources in the future. For example, through automating repetitive tasks such as screening CVs, scheduling interviews, and conducting background checks human resources professionals will save time. Growth can also be accelerated by leveraging AI to provide sales and marketing teams with the right analytics and customer insights to capture demand. Additionally, it can boost sales effectiveness and performance by offloading and automating many routine activities, and AI plays a very significant role in enhancing customer experiences. According to the Forbes Advisor survey (2023), 73% of businesses use or plan to use AI-powered chatbots for instant messaging. Successful implementation of AI requires strategy and collaboration between various stakeholders, and those in leadership roles. Leaders and managers must be proactive in attracting and developing the right talent, collaborating and partnering with other organisations, and considering the ethical implications. By leveraging AI to inform business decision-making, companies can only improve accuracy, reduce errors, and optimise their operations, leading to better outcomes and increased profitability. |
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Unit Assessment |
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The aim of this unit’s assessment is to offer students an opportunity to demonstrate the skills required for managing and implementing a small-scale business project whilst they examine the applications and impact of A.I. technology in the education sector. |
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Assessment Submission Format |
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The submission is in the form of a portfolio which includes the following components: |
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Vocational scenario |
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As a student representative and part of the student council at LCUCK you are required to investigate the impact of A.I. technology on the operations of the school and/or student learning and teaching. You intend to make use of your research skills to gain insights from fellow students and staff on the benefits and pitfalls of A.I. and make recommendations to the school accordingly. Your recommendations will be the basis of a project that you need to complete for the school. There you need to demonstrate your project management skills by presenting a project management plan for implementing your recommendations. Unit Assessment 1. You are required to examine the benefits and pitfalls of A.I. technology in relation to LCUCK. That would involve reviewing the relevant literature (A.I. in the education sector), and a data collection from fellow students or staff of LCUCK (to elicit their opinion on the benefits and pitfalls of A.I. technology). The data collection methods available at your disposal are: a) Focus groups b) Interviews c) Questionnaires You would have to evaluate and justify your choice of data collection method and apply it accordingly. Based on your results, you can make recommendations that would serve as the impetus for the project. 2. Make a project management plan (PMP) that follows the stages of the project lifecycle. The project management plan should specify the aim of the project, the deliverables of the project, the choices you have made with regards to quality (see project management triangle), risk considerations, and resources needed for the project. This section should also include a work breakdown structure for the project, and a timeframe covering the lifecycle of the project. A critical evaluation of both your data collection and your PMP should make it clear to the reader why you have made your choices. 3a. Produce a logbook with notes of your progress throughout your project. This is to be presented as an appendix.
This is an important record of your work and must be used to record the development of your ideas and your progress through the project. The logbook should include:
3b. A performance review which is to be presented as an appendix. Using the performance review template form provided at the end of this brief, you will need to reflect on the potential success of the project and its usefulness in supporting organisational performance; and your own performance as a learner and researcher. The submission is in the form of an individual written project report. This should be written in a concise, formal business style using 1.5 line spacing and a font size of 12. You are required to make use of headings, paragraphs and subsections as appropriate and ensure that the report is aligned as justified. All work must be supported with research and all research resources should be cited and referenced using the Harvard referencing system. Please also provide a Reference List including all cited materials using the Harvard referencing system. The recommended word limit is 2,500-3000 words. |
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Recommended Resources Please note that the resources listed are examples for you to use as a starting point in your research – the list is not definitive. |
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Textbooks
Websites |
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Learning Outcomes and Assessment Criteria |
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Pass |
Merit |
Distinction |
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LO1 Explain the key stages of the project lifecycle that should be considered when project managing |
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P1 Explain the stages of the project lifecycle (PLC) and their importance to the success of a project. P2 Examine the factors to be considered when compiling a project management plan (PMP). P3 Examine a range of research methods and strategies and their importance to project management. |
M1 Evaluate the stages of the PLC and the factors, (Deliverables, quality, risk, communication and resources) to be considered in a PMP. M2 Evaluate a range of research methods and strategies for gathering information and data collection. |
D1 Critically evaluate the project-management process, PMP and research methods for gathering information and data collection |
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LO2 Produce a Project Management Plan (PMP) for a business project using primary and secondary research methods |
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P4 Produce a PMP that covers, aim, objectives, deliverables, quality, risk, communication resources and research methods. P5 Produce a work breakdown structure and a schedule to provide timeframes and stages for completion. |
M3 Produce a detailed PMP, and schedule for monitoring and completing the aims and objectives of the project. |
D2 Justify the choices made in the design of the PMP for completing the aims and objectives of the project. |
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Pass |
Merit |
Distinction |
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LO3 Implement the Project Management Plan (PMP) to communicate results from the research and make conclusions from the evidence of findings |
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P6 Conduct a business project as stated within the PMP and communicate findings. P7 Present data to draw valid and meaningful conclusions and recommendations from data analysis. |
M4 Justify conclusions and recommendations drawn from data analysis and findings to meet the stated project objectives. |
LO3 and LO4 D3 Critically reflect on the findings from the research and the project management process in supporting stated objectives and own learning. |
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LO4 Reflect on value gained from implementing the project and the project management process. |
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P8 Reflect on the value of undertaking the business project to meet stated objectives and own learning and performance. |
M5 Evaluate the project management process to meet stated objectives and support own learning and performance. |
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Templates for Evidence Collection
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1. Project Logbook |
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Name: |
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Project title: |
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Date: |
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Update on weekly research/tasks achieved Points to consider: What have you completed? Did you fulfil task requirements? Are you on track and within deadlines set? Did you need to make any changes to your project management plan? |
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Update on weekly research/tasks achieved Points to consider: What have you completed? Did you fulfil task requirements? Are you on track and within deadlines set? Did you need to make any changes to your project management plan? |
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Any risks and/or issues identified? Points to consider: Did you identify risks/issues with a lack of skills required for undertaking research/tasks? Did you identify any additional risks/issues that have an impact on the project management plan? |
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Problems encountered Points to consider: What barriers did you face? How did you overcome them? |
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New ideas and change of project direction |
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What have I learnt about myself this week? |
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Points to consider: How did I feel when I had to deal with tasks/problems? Did I find it useful to complete the tasks? How well have I performed? What did I contribute? What can I improve on next week? How might this learning apply in the future? |
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Tasks planned for next week Points to consider: Which tasks are priority? Have you set aside sufficient time for completion? |
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Project plan status to date (on, ahead, behind) |
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Supervisor comments to address |
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2. Performance Review |
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What was the project supposed to accomplish?
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• Did the project succeed in its aims? How do you know? Specifically, please outline any evaluation and assessment undertaken.
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• What things do you think worked well and why? Evaluate all aspects of the project (e.g. initial inception, project activities and project outcomes) from a range of perspectives.
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• What problems emerged during the project and how were they tackled? Was there timely identification of issues and resolution during the project process?
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• What did you learn from undertaking the project?
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• How would you rate your performance as project manager?
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• What strengths and weaknesses of your performance did you identify?
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• How will this inform and support your continuous professional development?
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Unit 6: Managing a Successful Business Project is a significant unit in business studies, particularly for learners focusing on project management, planning, and execution. This assignment aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to define, manage, and successfully deliver a business project aligned with strategic objectives.
Purpose of the Unit
This unit emphasises identifying a clear project aim, setting objectives, and developing a feasible plan that addresses a specific organisational problem or opportunity. Students are expected to explore topics such as risk management, stakeholder engagement, resource allocation, and evaluating outcomes.
Steps to Approach the Assignment
To complete the assignment successfully, follow these guidelines:
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Understand the Requirements
Begin by thoroughly reviewing the assignment brief, paying close attention to the marking criteria and deliverables. Understand the scope of the project, including the expected outcomes, timelines, and any constraints. -
Select a Project Topic
Choose a project topic that is relevant, manageable, and aligns with your course objectives. For example, you could focus on improving customer service, enhancing operational efficiency, or launching a new product. -
Write an Effective Introduction
Provide a clear introduction that outlines the project aim and objectives. Contextualise the topic by explaining why it is significant to the organisation or industry. -
Develop a Project Management Plan
Include the following elements:- Scope: Define what the project will and will not cover.
- Resources: Outline the human, financial, and physical resources required.
- Timescale: Present a realistic timeline using Gantt charts or project schedules.
- Risk Management: Identify potential risks and propose mitigation strategies.
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Use Evidence-Based Research
Support your project with secondary data and examples from reputable sources. Show evidence of critical analysis and synthesis of the research material. -
Monitor and Evaluate Progress
Explain how you would track progress and measure success. Highlight the use of key performance indicators (KPIs) or evaluation tools. -
Include Visuals and Structured Content
Use tables, graphs, or flowcharts to illustrate data and plans effectively. Ensure your report is logically structured with headings and subheadings. -
Conclude with Recommendations
Summarise your findings and propose actionable recommendations. Reflect on the challenges encountered during the project and lessons learned. -
Follow British English Standards
Write in British English, using formal language appropriate for academic writing. Avoid colloquialisms and proofread your work for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. -
Reference Properly
Include a properly formatted bibliography or reference list using the referencing style required by your institution (e.g., Harvard or APA).
Additional Tips
- Time Management: Start early and allocate specific time slots for each section of the report.
- Collaborate When Necessary: If the assignment involves teamwork, ensure clear communication and role distribution.
- Seek Feedback: Share drafts with peers or tutors to gain constructive feedback before submission.
By following these steps, students can produce a well-researched, analytically robust, and professionally presented business project report that demonstrates their capability to manage projects effectively.
Sample Answer of Unit 6 Managing a Successful Business Project
LO1 Explain the key stages of the project lifecycle that should be considered when project managing.
Explanation of the Key Stages of the Project Lifecycle in Relation to the Assignment
Effective project management involves navigating through the four key stages of the project lifecycle: initiation, planning, execution, and closure. These stages are critical for ensuring that a project achieves its objectives efficiently and aligns with stakeholder expectations. Below, these stages are discussed with specific reference to the project investigating the impact of A.I. technology on LCUCK’s operations and student learning.
1. Initiation
The initiation stage involves defining the purpose, objectives, and scope of the project. For this assignment:
- The objective is to investigate the benefits and pitfalls of A.I. in education at LCUCK and make actionable recommendations for the institution.
- The scope includes reviewing existing literature on A.I. in the education sector and collecting opinions from students and staff using focus groups, interviews, or questionnaires.
- A stakeholder analysis will identify key individuals such as students, academic staff, and administrative personnel to determine their needs and concerns.
- A feasibility study will ensure that the project aligns with LCUCK`s resources and operational goals.
Deliverable: A project charter or outline defining the study’s aims and methods.
2. Planning
This stage involves creating a detailed roadmap for executing the project. Key considerations include:
- Research Design and Data Collection Method:
A review of methods (focus groups, interviews, or questionnaires) will determine the best approach for gathering insights on A.I.’s impact. - Focus Groups: Suitable for fostering in-depth discussions among students or staff, but may require more time to organize.
- Interviews: Ideal for gathering detailed, qualitative insights from key stakeholders, such as faculty members or administrators.
- Questionnaires: Effective for collecting a broad range of opinions quickly and anonymously, particularly from students.
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