Module 1 – Lesson 1 – What are projects?

Defining Projects vs. Tasks:

Tasks are individual activities, often managed through to-do lists or productivity tools.
Projects are a collection of interdependent tasks that contribute to a larger goal.

Volume vs. Variety in Projects:

High volume, low variety: Example – McDonald’s, focused on efficiency and operations.
Low volume, high variety: The domain of projects, which can be categorized as:
1. First Timers – Unique, unprecedented projects (e.g., Apollo moon landings).
2. “As Is, But Different” – Projects with familiar foundations but new challenges (e.g., major construction projects).
3. “Paint by Numbers” – Well-documented projects repeated by various organizations (e.g., standard software rollouts).
Risk and cost increase for projects closer to the “First Timers” category.

Projects as Drivers of Change:

Projects transform businesses and industries.
Example: Netflix evolved from mailing DVDs to streaming services and content creation through project-driven innovation.

Characteristics of Projects:

Professional definitions highlight key traits:
- Temporary & transient (not ongoing operations).
- Defined goals & objectives (clear purpose).
- Unique deliverables (not repetitive processes).
- Constraints (time, cost, and performance).

Reflection:

Consider your own understanding of projects and what characteristics define them.