This unit addresses the ways in which information technology (IT) can facilitate the project management process in relation to feasibility and sensitivity analysis, planning and monitoring, information processing and decision support functions. It focuses on the application of software packages in the areas of both General Project Management Information Systems and Specialised Project Management Information Systems. The subject content includes computerised procurement considerations, identification of available computer hardware and software and analysis of current IT trends. IT based Project Management analytical systems (spreadsheets/financial models, planning and resource control, Data Base Management Systems (DBMS), and Quantitative and Qualitative Risk Analysis) are critically reviewed. Problem solving in relation to change and risk management and issues of quality control are also addressed. Learning scenarios which highlight the emergent and dynamic nature of IT and project management will be used to contextualise course content.

Unit details

Location:
Footscray Park
VU Sydney
Study level:
Postgraduate
Credit points:
12
Unit code:
EPM5700

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Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
  1. Identify and appraise hardware and software applications and defend their application in specific project environments;  
  2. Critically evaluate the relevance of selected project management theoretical frameworks to a variety of project scenarios;  
  3. Justify the selection of appropriate software to capture complex financial transactions and resolve resource conflicts across the life of projects;  
  4. Formulate a strategy for the implementation of project management software which addresses project risk identification and response; and  
  5. Exemplify the skills required for the effective functioning of a multi-disciplinary project planning control group.  

Assessment

Assessment type Description Grade
Assignment Individual Assignment (1500 words) 15%
Assignment Group Project (3000 words per student plus 5 minutes presentation by each student) 35%
Examination Examination (3 hours) 50%

Required reading

Reading material will be negotiated in consultation with the supervisor and will be appropriate to the topic under investigation.

A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge 6th ed.
(PMBOK© GUIDE) (2017)
Project Management Institute

Practice Standard for Work Breakdown Structures
Project Management Institute (2006)
PMI

Recommended text: Project Management Institute (2011) Practice Standard for Scheduling - Second Edition, PMI. Project Management Institute (2011) Practice Standard for Earned Value Management - Second Edition, PMI Project Management Institute (2011) Practice Standard for Project Estimating, PMI Kathy Schwalbe (2013) Information technology project management 7th ed. Cengage Learning, Boston MA. MS Project Training Manuals 2016 Students will be provided with class notes and additional resources online, in-line with the topics.

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