Management Framework for Business Projects (MFBP) seeks to establish rigorous theoretical foundations for the initiation and management of projects (and programs) in business.  MFBP explores concepts that are intended to enhance the success of projects by guiding the way they are scoped, planned, governed and closed.

The Course introduces a set of frameworks and examines a number of contemporary issues in business project management within the public and private sectors.  While we refer to accepted project management practice, (as reflected, for example, in the Project Management Body of Knowledge), this Course is based on an exploration of rigorous management principles - it is not a training program in any particular methodology.  Indeed, armed with the theoretical principles that we will explore, it is possible to make considered judgements about the worth, strengths and weaknesses of the proprietary methodologies in common use throughout industry today.

The focus of the Course is on the project as a domain of management decision-making.  A number of important tools and techniques in project management that are covered comprehensively in other Courses are discussed only superficially in MFBP.  This is particularly the case with such areas as: work planning, task scheduling, diagramming and project resourcing.  Conventional wisdom in project management is based on a rich and fascinating collage of: analytical techniques, accepted practice, proprietary products, agreed standards, regularised procedures, anecdotal evidence, folklore, urban myths, professional ritual, assertions, strongly-held beliefs and methodological zealotry.  For some years the lecturer has been engaged in a research program (with Ofer Zwikael; also from RSM) that seeks to make project management a more rigorous discipline by underpinning all this with reliable theoretical foundations.  A Management Framework for Business Projects is work-in-progress from this endeavour. 

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. define, explain and illustrate key high-level concepts in project management including the ITO Model, project scoping, planning, governance, issues and risk management, monitoring, evaluation and project closeout; and,
2. make considered judgements about the worth, strengths and weaknesses of the proprietary project management methodologies in common use throughout industry today.

Research-Led Teaching

The course provides students with a framework to investigate management theory and business projects based on contemporary project management research. In particular, the research conducted by the course convenor and the book he co-authored (with John Smyrk) will be discussed in the course at length. His four books and more than 250 scholarly peer-reviewed papers have been recognised through research awards from the Academy of Management, British Academy of Management, Project Management Institute, International Project Management Association, Emerald, and the Australian Institute of Project Management. As one of the world’s leading project management scholars, Professor Zwikael was named by Stanford University and Elsevier to be among the top 2% of international scientists. His research on project benefits management has been funded by major organizations, including the Australian Department of Defence and the Project Management Institute (US). 

As the ANU is planning a project management workshop, students will be asked to attend the workshop instead of one of the regular scheduled classes. More information will be provided on Wattle at least a week before the workshop. 

Field Trips

N/A

Additional Course Costs

No additional costs expected for this course

Examination Material or equipment

There are no examinations in this course.

Required Resources

• Zwikael, O., Smyrk, J. R. (2019). Project Management: A Benefit Realisation Approach. Springer-Verlag, London, UK. ISBN: 978-3-030-03173-2 (print book); 978-3-030-03174-9 (eBook). [Project Management Institute’s (PMI) David I. Cleland Project Management Literature Award (2020)].

Recommended Resources

• Meredith, J. R., Shafer, S. M., & Mantel, S. J. (2021). Project Management: A Managerial Approach. 11th Edition, Wiley.

Staff Feedback

Students will be given feedback in the following forms in this course:

• Written comments
• Verbal comments
• Feedback to the whole class, to groups, to individuals, focus groups

Student Feedback

ANU is committed to the demonstration of educational excellence and regularly seeks feedback from students. Students are encouraged to offer feedback directly to their Course Convener or through their College and Course representatives (if applicable). The feedback given in these surveys is anonymous and provides the Colleges, University Education Committee and Academic Board with opportunities to recognise excellent teaching, and opportunities for improvement. The Surveys and Evaluation website provides more information on student surveys at ANU and reports on the feedback provided on ANU courses.

Class Schedule

Week/Session	Summary of Activities	Assessment
1	Week 1: The roles projects serve in business	Chapter 1
2	Week 2: Project success	Chapter 8
3	Week 3: A theoretical framework for projects	Chapter 2
4	Week 4: The structure of a project	Chapter 3. Assignment #1 should be uploaded to Turnitin by 5pm Friday of Week 4 (18 August)
5	Week 5: Project governance	Chapter 4
6	Week 6: Project attractiveness	Chapter 7
7	Week 7: Project initiation	Chapter 9
8	Week 8: Project initiation	Chapter 9
9	Week 9: Project initiation	Chapter 9
10	Week 10: Project initiation	Chapter 9
11	Week 11: Group presentations	Assignment #2. The presentation should be uploaded to Turnitin by 10am Monday of Week 11 (16 October).
12	Week 12: Group presentations, closeout & wrap up	Assignment #2. The presentation should be uploaded to Turnitin by 10am Monday of Week 11 (16 October). Assignment #4 will be assessed in class on Week 12.
13	Individual assessment	Assignment #3. Individual Report Assignment is due by 5pm Sunday of Week 13 (5 November) via Turnitin

Tutorial Registration

ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.

Further details about the structure and teaching activities for this course will be available on the course Wattle site by start of Week 0.

Assessment Summary

Assessment task	Value	Due Date	Return of assessment	Learning Outcomes
Assignment 1: Project analysis	20 %	18/08/2023	31/08/2023	1,2,3,4
Assignment 2 – Business Case Group Presentation	30 %	16/10/2023	02/11/2023	1,2,3,4,5,6,7
Assignment 3: Business Case Analysis	40 %	05/11/2023	30/11/2023	1,2,3,4,5,6,7
Assignment 4: Class Contribution	10 %	27/10/2023	30/11/2023	1,2,3,4,5,6,7

* If the Due Date and Return of Assessment date are blank, see the Assessment Tab for specific Assessment Task details

Policies

ANU has educational policies, procedures and guidelines, which are designed to ensure that staff and students are aware of the University’s academic standards, and implement them. Students are expected to have read the Academic Misconduct Rule before the commencement of their course. Other key policies and guidelines include:

• Student Assessment (Coursework) Policy and Procedure
• Special Assessment Consideration Policy and General Information
• Student Surveys and Evaluations
• Deferred Examinations
• Student Complaint Resolution Policy and Procedure

Assessment Requirements

The ANU is using Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website Students may choose not to submit assessment items through Turnitin. In this instance you will be required to submit, alongside the assessment item itself, hard copies of all references included in the assessment item.

Moderation of Assessment

Marks that are allocated during Semester are to be considered provisional until formalised by the College examiners meeting at the end of each Semester. If appropriate, some moderation of marks might be applied prior to final results being released.

Participation

Attendance at lectures and workshops, while not compulsory, is expected in line with 'Code of Practice for Teaching and learning", clause 2 paragraph (b)

Examination(s)

There is no formal examination for this course.

Assessment Task 1

Assignment 1: Project analysis

Due date: End of week 4 (18/8). Return by 31/8.

Weight: 20%

Mode: Group assignment (self-formation)

Purpose: Analyse the core elements of a project. This assignment is the first step towards the presentation of a full business case (assignment 2)

Instructions: Select a project from your organisation or your private life and implement the followings tools and techniques that are relevant for project approval. You can also use the same group project later for assignment #2. Analyse the following for this project:

1.     Rationale and strategic fit. What led to this project? Why this particular project at this particular time? How does this project fit into the organisation’s strategic or policy framework, and how does it rank amongst competing initiatives?

2.     Project objective. A short statement that answers the question “Why is this project being funded”.

3.     Scenario analysis. Discuss the “Now”, “No” and “Yes” scenarios.

4.     List of target outcomes. A simple list, supported below with definitions of each item.

5.     List of committed outputs. A simple list, each item is defined below with a list of critical fitness-for-purpose features.

6.     The project’s key players

Marking criteria:

20% Selection and variety of tools

40% Quality of analysis                             

30% Quality of managerial recommendations

10% Clear presentation

Presentation requirements: The report consists of no more than 1,000 words excluding the bibliography and figures. There is no word penalty.

Submission dates: 5pm Friday 18 August via Turnitin on the course Wattle site.

Feedback: The assignment will be discussed in class the week following submission. Reports will be marked and feedback provided with return of grades. 

Rubric

Criteria	<50%>	50% - 60% (Pass)	60% - 70% (Credit)	70% - 80% (Distinction)	= 80% (High Distinction)
20% Selection and variety of tools	Does not use extensive and relevant tools to illustrate depth of understanding.	Limited use of extensive and relevant tools to illustrate depth of understanding.	Evidence of use of extensive and relevant tools to illustrate depth of understanding.	Evidence of in-depth use of extensive and relevant tools to illustrate depth of understanding.	Evidence of extensive and relevant use of tools. Links different concepts to form an argument in a sophisticated manner.
40% Quality of analysis	Does not use correct analysis of tools to illustrate depth of understanding.	Limited use of correct analysis of tools to illustrate depth of understanding.	Evidence of correct analysis of tools to illustrate depth of understanding.	Evidence of in-depth correct analysis of tools to illustrate depth of understanding.	Evidence of extensive and relevant correct analysis of tools to illustrate depth of understanding.
30% Quality of managerial recommendations	Little to no evidence of critical thinking. Overall, lack of reflection and does not move beyond general descriptions.	Some evidence of critical thinking. Overall, some evidence of reflection and some application to an organisational context; however, narrow in focus and/or unclear.	Evidence of a moderate degree of critical thinking and some understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of what they have been taught. Reflection applies knowledge and learnings to a particular context in a way that is likely to lead to improved outcomes.	Evidence of a high degree of critical thinking and good understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of what they have been taught. Reflection critically applies knowledge and learnings to a particular context in a way that is likely to lead to improved outcomes.	Evidence of excellent critical thinking and insightful understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of what they have been taught. Reflections also involve questioning extant beliefs and assumptions. Reflection critically applies knowledge and learnings to a particular context in a way that is likely to lead to improved outcomes.
10% Clear presentation	Poorly written, with lack of clarity regarding ideas and arguments Ideas and arguments either do not relate or are only loosely related to the topic.	Fairly clear and concise communication of main arguments and ideas. Ideas and arguments are related to the topic, but linkages could be explained more clearly.	Consistently communicates the main argument and ideas clearly and concisely. Presents ideas in a logical manner. Ideas and arguments are related to the topic. However, there is some room for improvement to enable better clarification.	Clearly and concisely communicates all ideas and arguments. Presents all ideas in a logical and persuasive manner. The report concisely articulates the strengths and weaknesses of what you have learnt and how they can be applied to a workplace.	Extremely clear and concise communication of all ideas and arguments. Excellent presentation of all ideas, with clear logic and persuasive communication evident. The report provides an extremely clear articulation of the strengths and weaknesses of what you have learnt and how they can be applied to a workplace.

Assessment Task 2

Assignment 2 – Business Case Group Presentation

Due date: Presentation in class in weeks 11 and 12. The presentation should be uploaded to Turnitin by 10am Monday of Week 11 (16 October).

Weight: 30%  

Mode: Group assignment

Purpose: Implement tools and techniques that are relevant during project initiation

Instructions: For the project discussed in assignment 1, develop and present a business case. Present the business case with focus on the relevant project management tools. Organise your work according to the suggested following sections:

1.     Rationale and strategic fit. What led to this project? Why this particular project at this particular time? How does this project fit into the organisation’s strategic or policy framework, and how does it rank amongst competing initiatives?

2.     Project objective. A short statement that answers the question “Why is this project being funded”

3.     Scenario analysis. Discuss the “Now”, “No” and “Yes” scenarios.

4.     List of target outcomes. A simple list, supported below with definitions of each item.

5.     List of committed outputs. A simple list, each item is defined below with a list of critical fitness-for-purpose features.

6.     Utilisation map analysis

7.     Related projects and programs. To what projects and programs is this one related, and how will those links be managed? For example, projects on which this one depends and projects that will depend on this one.

8.     High-level schedule plan. 

9.     Resource plan and budget. The amount of resources and the budget required to complete the work of the project.

10. The governance structure

The Business Case presentation must contain a statement of the contribution made to the report by each student in the group (unless equal contribution).

Presentations will be recorded in accordance with the ANU Assessment Policy.

Marking criteria and rubric: Same as assignment 1.

Presentation requirements: This is a class presentation, e.g. using PowerPoint.

Submission dates: The presentation should be uploaded to Turnitin by 10am Monday of Week 11 (16 October). Presentation in class in weeks 11 and 12.

Feedback: The assignment will be discussed in class in week 12 following presentations. Reports will be marked and feedback provided with return of grades. 

Assessment Task 3

Assignment 3: Business Case Analysis

Due date: Examination period 5/11/23

Weight: 40%  

Mode: Individual assignment

Purpose: Implement tools and techniques that are relevant during project initiation

Instructions: Choose a project and implement the followings tools and techniques that are relevant for project approval. Develop a business case for a new project. Present the business case with focus on the relevant project management tools. Organise your work according to the suggested following sections:

1.       Executive summary

2.       Business context. What is the problem or opportunity that led to this project?

3.       Rationale and strategic fit. How does this project fit into the organisation’s strategic or policy framework?

4.       Related projects and programs. To what projects and programs is this one related, and how will those links be managed?

5.       Assumptions and constraints. What values of key variables and conditions have been assumed? What constraints have been imposed on the project? What are the implications for the business case of changes in each of these?

6.       Project definition

7.       Project objective. A short statement that answers the question “Why is this project being funded and what is going to be done?”

8.       Scenario analysis. Discuss the “Now”, “No” and “Yes” scenarios.

9.       List of target outcomes. A simple list, supported with definitions of each item.

10.   Undesirable outcomes (aka disbenefits, optional).

11.   List of committed outputs. A simple list, each item defined with a list of critical fitness-for-purpose features.

12.   Utilisation map analysis

13.   High-level schedule plan. 

14.   Resource plan and budget. The amount of resources and the budget required to complete the work of the project.

15.   The governance structure

16.   Critical risks and a contingency plan.

Marking criteria: Same as assignment 1

Presentation requirements: The report consists of no more than 2,000 words excluding the references and figures. There is no word penalty.

Submission dates:  The report should be uploaded to Turnitin by 5pm Sunday 5 November.

Feedback: Reports will be marked and feedback provided with return of grades. 

Assessment Task 4

Assignment 4: Class Contribution

Due date: Week 12

Weight: 10%

Mode: Individual assignment

Purpose: Assess student contribution to the course by communicating effectively about business project management.

Instructions: Students will have multiple opportunities during the course to communicate their ideas, both in group and class settings. In groups, students can represent their groups at meetings with the course lecturer about their group projects, present their group work and project analysis using models discussed in class. Students will also be expected to ask questions, provide examples from their own work experience and suggest their solutions for class exercises in front of the entire class. The task will be assessed based on the quality of the contribution rather than the quantity. This task will be assessed between the first and last class (inclusive), with the final contribution mark being calculated after the last class on a 0-10 scale based on the effectiveness of communication about business project management using appropriate concepts, logic and rhetorical conventions by each individual student throughout the duration of the entire course.

Marking criteria: higher marks (8-10) will be awarded for consistent demonstration of engagement and demonstration of a high level of understanding of the majority of the material discussed each week;

7 is awarded for somewhat consistent demonstration of engagement and demonstration of a reasonable level of understanding of the majority the material discussed each week;

6 is awarded for somewhat consistent demonstration of engagement and demonstration of a reasonable level of understanding of the some of the material discussed each week;

5 is awarded for somewhat inconsistent demonstration of engagement and demonstration of passable level of understanding of the material discussed each week;

less than 5 is awarded for inconsistent to little demonstration of engagement and rudimentary to little demonstration of understanding of the material discussed each week.

Academic Integrity

Academic integrity is a core part of our culture as a community of scholars. At its heart, academic integrity is about behaving ethically. This means that all members of the community commit to honest and responsible scholarly practice and to upholding these values with respect and fairness. The Australian National University commits to embedding the values of academic integrity in our teaching and learning. We ensure that all members of our community understand how to engage in academic work in ways that are consistent with, and actively support academic integrity. The ANU expects staff and students to uphold high standards of academic integrity and act ethically and honestly, to ensure the quality and value of the qualification that you will graduate with. The University has policies and procedures in place to promote academic integrity and manage academic misconduct. Visit the following Academic honesty & plagiarism website for more information about academic integrity and what the ANU considers academic misconduct. The ANU offers a number of services to assist students with their assignments, examinations, and other learning activities. The Academic Skills and Learning Centre offers a number of workshops and seminars that you may find useful for your studies.

Online Submission

The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website.

Hardcopy Submission

For some forms of assessment (hand written assignments, art works, laboratory notes, etc.) hard copy submission is appropriate when approved by the Associate Dean (Education). Hard copy submissions must utilise the Assignment Cover Sheet. Please keep a copy of tasks completed for your records.

Late Submission

Late submission of assessment tasks without an extension are penalised at the rate of 5% of the possible marks available per working day or part thereof. Late submission of assessment tasks is not accepted after 10 working days after the due date, or on or after the date specified in the course outline for the return of the assessment item. Late submission is not accepted for take-home examinations.

All requests for extensions to assessment in RSM courses must be submitted to the RSM School Office with a completed application form and supporting documentation. The RSM Extension Application Form and further information on this process can be found at https://www.rsm.anu.edu.au/education/education-programs/notices-for-students/extension-application-procedure/

Referencing Requirements

Accepted academic practice for referencing sources that you use in presentations can be found via the links on the Wattle site, under the file named “ANU and College Policies, Program Information, Student Support Services and Assessment”. Alternatively, you can seek help through the Students Learning Development website.

Returning Assignments

All assignments will be marked and where appropriate feedback will be provided either: in class, or in person by appointment with the course lecturer, or via the course Wattle site.

Extensions and Penalties

Extensions and late submission of assessment pieces are covered by the Student Assessment (Coursework) Policy and Procedure The Course Convener may grant extensions for assessment pieces that are not examinations or take-home examinations. If you need an extension, you must request an extension in writing on or before the due date. If you have documented and appropriate medical evidence that demonstrates you were not able to request an extension on or before the due date, you may be able to request it after the due date.

Resubmission of Assignments

Unless specified otherwise in the assignment requirements, re-submissions are permitted up until the due date and time, but not allowed afterwards.

Privacy Notice

The ANU has made a number of third party, online, databases available for students to use. Use of each online database is conditional on student end users first agreeing to the database licensor’s terms of service and/or privacy policy. Students should read these carefully. In some cases student end users will be required to register an account with the database licensor and submit personal information, including their: first name; last name; ANU email address; and other information. In cases where student end users are asked to submit ‘content’ to a database, such as an assignment or short answers, the database licensor may only use the student’s ‘content’ in accordance with the terms of service — including any (copyright) licence the student grants to the database licensor. Any personal information or content a student submits may be stored by the licensor, potentially offshore, and will be used to process the database service in accordance with the licensors terms of service and/or privacy policy. If any student chooses not to agree to the database licensor’s terms of service or privacy policy, the student will not be able to access and use the database. In these circumstances students should contact their lecturer to enquire about alternative arrangements that are available.

Distribution of grades policy

Academic Quality Assurance Committee monitors the performance of students, including attrition, further study and employment rates and grade distribution, and College reports on quality assurance processes for assessment activities, including alignment with national and international disciplinary and interdisciplinary standards, as well as qualification type learning outcomes. Since first semester 1994, ANU uses a grading scale for all courses. This grading scale is used by all academic areas of the University.

Support for students

The University offers students support through several different services. You may contact the services listed below directly or seek advice from your Course Convener, Student Administrators, or your College and Course representatives (if applicable).

• ANU Health, safety & wellbeing for medical services, counselling, mental health and spiritual support
• ANU Diversity and inclusion for students with a disability or ongoing or chronic illness
• ANU Dean of Students for confidential, impartial advice and help to resolve problems between students and the academic or administrative areas of the University
• ANU Academic Skills and Learning Centre supports you make your own decisions about how you learn and manage your workload.
• ANU Counselling Centre promotes, supports and enhances mental health and wellbeing within the University student community.
• ANUSA supports and represents undergraduate and ANU College students
• PARSA supports and represents postgraduate and research students