Discussion Questions

1. Consider a project management methodology that specifies only the six questions stated in the “Understanding the Fundamentals of Project Management” section of this chapter. All that is required of the project manager and client is to provide answers to those six questions. Could this approach be made to work? If yes, how? If not, why not?
2. Compare and contrast the PMI and business value definitions of project management. Include a list of advantages and disadvantages of each.
3. For each of the five PMLC models, identify the specific points where client involvement is needed. What specific actions would you take as project manager to ensure that involvement?
4. Where in each of the five PMLC models would you expect the most failures occur? Defend your answer.
5. Where in each of the five PMLC models would you expect the greatest risk? What mitigation strategies would you consider? Defend your choices.
6. For each of the five PMLC models, identify a project from your experience that would seem to have been a good fit. Would using that PMLC for that project have improved the outcome? Why?

   CASE STUDY — PIZZA DELIVERED QUICKLY (PDQ)

   7. Referring to the PDQ case study, what PMLC model would you use for each of the six subsystems (Order Entry, Order Submit, Logistics, Routing, Inventory Management, and Pizza Factory Locator)? Defend your choices.