Brad as a Project

     Looking at it from a project management perspective, a college student could be considered a “project” to manage.  Using that train of thought, lets look at how my life as a college student might progress for CS 250 IT Project Management.

     The project would begin by attending the first day of class, receiving the syllabus to establish milestones (projects due), and meeting my classmates.  The syllabus establishes the timeline of the project, and designated meeting times twice per week. 

The following goals should be met during the timeframe:

• Attend each class (allot “buffer” zone of two classes missed due to weather, etc.)
• Complete each assignment in a timely manner (before due date)
• Read the prescribed chapters, articles, etc.
• Communicate with fellow students (establish a communication/collaboration method for networking during project assignments)
• Schedule out of class meetings (if necessary)
• Routinely communicate with the Professor throughout the project about projects, assignments, etc.
• When put in a group environment, establish roles for each of the group members, switch roles when possible to encourage learning all aspects of project management
• For actual clients, routine contact will ensure the project is on track and the client’s goals are met
• Utilize Microsoft Project 2010 software to monitor project from start to finish
• Take good notes in class to gain information not provided by textbook or provided materials
• Ensure to ask questions to clarify information
• Keep a Positive Mental Attitude to ensure success
• Project completion is measured as all assignments, projects, exams complete by end of Semester

     Outside of CS 250, there are many external aspects that can affect the success of the project.  Since I commute from Janesville to Madison each day, vehicle operation, gas prices, road conditions, and weather are some of the obvious ones.  Having two vehicles reduces the risk factor of not being able to make it to class.  Living out of Madison also limits any out-of-class meetings with group members or clients.  However, proper planning or technology can substitute face-to-face meetings, via video conferencing, etc..  At present time, this project has a low risk factor rating of failure, as contingencies have been established for almost any problem.