Question

A project manager that uses milestones as a project control device is using a(n):

Answer 1

A project manager that uses milestones as a project control device is using milestone scheduling, which helps monitor progress and track performance.

Step-by-step explanation:

A project manager that uses milestones as a project control device is using a project management tool called milestone scheduling. Milestones are significant events or achievements that mark the completion of a major phase or deliverable in a project. They serve as important control points that help monitor progress, track performance, and ensure that the project is on track.

By setting specific milestones and associated deadlines, the project manager can assess whether the project is progressing as planned and take necessary corrective actions if deviations occur. For example, a milestone could be the completion of a design phase, and missing that milestone could indicate potential issues that need to be addressed.

Milestone scheduling provides a clear roadmap for the project, keeps the team accountable, and enables effective communication and coordination among team members and stakeholders.

Answer 2

A project manager who uses milestones is employing a strategic approach for project management, including tracking progress and meeting critical deadlines to ensure the success of the project.

Step-by-step explanation:

A project manager who incorporates milestones as a control device is employing a strategic approach to manage and track the progress of various tasks within a project. Milestones signify significant events or achievements within the project timeline. They provide teams with clear targets to aim for and serve as checkpoints that help the managers and teams to evaluate the progress towards the project goals.

In engineering projects that involve multitasking and collaboration across different teams and specializations, milestones are particularly crucial. For instance, in designing a new video game controller, engineers might set milestones for completing the design phase, testing prototypes, and starting mass production. Missing a milestone, such as the commencement of manufacturing, could mean missing the holiday season—a critical sales window for the product. It could also mean losing market share to competitors if they launch a similar product first.

Therefore, the use of milestones is not just a scheduling tool but a key component in project management, ensuring that critical deadlines are met and, consequently, revenue and competitive advantage are not compromised.