What is Project Complexity?A project can be understood as a system. Thus, system theory can be applied to understand the nature of project complexity. Show
Complexity is determined by the number of parts or activities, the degree of differentiation between the parts, and the structure of their connections.
The factors that affect complexity include:
What are Complex Adaptive Systems?As such, the complexity of a project is measured on the same principles. Each component of a project interacts with other components and the project environment. A project is a complex adaptive systems. It has a large number of elements (activities and resources). It is adaptive because the individual elements react and then adjust to the other elements to allow achievement of the objectives to which they relate. The event to which the activities are dependent upon each other, (known as “interdependence”), contributes to the degree of complexity. What are the Complexity Characteristics of a Project?As a complex adaptive system, projects have the following characteristics: Self-Organization - That is, project organize around the work, phases, or activities, which, in turn, reacts to the nature of the work at any given phase. Environmental Adaptation - Projects are generally considered to be deterministic systems. This means that it will produce the same results if you start with the same conditions. The opposite would be a nonlinear, or chaotic, system. In these systems, the results may differ if the starting conditions are almost exactly the same. Project managers use aggressive change management process to accommodate change and incorporate the change into the project planning and execution processes. What is the Darnall-Preston Complexity Index?TheDarnall-Preston Complexity Index (DPCI™) assesses complexity of a project based upon the following attributes of the project:
The DPCI was developed around four assumptions:
What is a Project Profile?A project profile is a simplified description of an eventual project. It includes all of the elements identified in the project definition, but it goes further to illustrate the various components that go into each element. This project profile is generally used by a firm that is considering undertaking a project. The project profile generally includes:
Because the project is early in the concept phase, the project profile is based upon estimates. That is, all activities cannot yet be identified. All costs associated with activities and resources will be inexact estimates based upon assumptions. The project profile is essential in the planning process. It aids the following:
What are the four categories of attributes in the DarnallThe Darnall-Preston Complexity Index (DPCI) groups project attributes into four categories: external attributes, internal attributes, technological complexity, and environmental attributes.
Does the technology attribute refer to the technology used by the project team or the project itself?Does the technology attribute refer to the technology used by the project team or the project itself? The project itself, the project team refers to the skills of the employees which is an internal attribute.
What is DarnallThe Darnall-Preston Complexity Index (DPCI™) is designed to develop a project profile that reflects different aspects of the project that will influence the approach to leading and executing the project. The DPCI is built on four categories of attributes: External.
Which of the following functions is an example of a project administrative function?The administrative function provides project specific support such as the following: Accounting services. Legal services. Property management.
|