Discussion Board Requirements:
For PMG300, each unit covers two chapters of our primary textbook, Larson, and you are expected to achieve weekly Project Management proficiency through assigned SmartBook readings, application of readings to Wednesday Discussion Boards (DBs) spanning both chapters, and knowledge competency of the chapters through LearnSmart Exams each Sunday.
As hybrid assignments covering both chapters, DBs are expected to be 400 to 500 words in length, with Larson as the primary course connection / reference, and at least one additional course reference or outside source applied to your discussion.
DBs shall adhere to the course rubric, and shall be clearly constructed multiple paragraphs compositions, with APA Footers and In-Text Citations.
In reply to two separate classmates’ posts, discuss what you learned from their posts, and ask questions about their posts to extend the information and solicit their replies.
Discussion Board Assignment:
Project Times and Costs / Concurrent Engineering (Fast-Tracking)
Our Unit 3 Discussion Board is a two-part DB covering chapters 5 and 6:
DB 3 Part 1: Case 5.2 Post-Graduation Adventure:
Josh and Mike met as roommates during freshman year at Macalester College in St. Paul, Minnesota. Despite a rocky start they became best friends. They are planning a two-week adventure together to celebrate their graduation in June. Josh has never been to Europe and wants to visit France or Spain. Mike spent a semester abroad in Aarhus, Denmark, and traveled extensively in northern Europe. Even though Mike has never been to France or Spain, he wants to go to someplace more exotic, like South Africa or Vietnam. For the past week they have been arguing over where they should go. Josh argues that it will cost too much to fly to South Africa or Vietnam, while Mike counters that it will be much cheaper to travel in Vietnam or South Africa once they are there. They agree that they can spend no more than $3,500 each on the trip and could be gone for only two weeks.
One evening when they were arguing with each other over beers with friends, Sara said, “Why don’t you use what you learned in your project management class to decide what to do?” Josh and Mike looked at each other and agreed that made perfect sense.
Assume you are either Mike or Josh; how would you go about making a decision using project management methodology?
Looking first at only cost, what decision would you make?
After cost, what other factors should be considered before making a decision?
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DB 3 Part 2: Snapshot from Practice 6.3 / Figure 6.16: Concurrent Engineering (Fast Tracking):
This scenario from Bowersox covers General Motors’ success in the development of the Volt Electric Vehicle.
Using this example, please identify, describe, and discuss a scenario from your personal or professional life where Fast Tracking has been – or could have been successful.
