Question

Your CEO at Telkom has appointed you as the lead project manager. For the duration of the project, your CEO wants you to report directly to him so that he can acquire first-hand information on the project as it progresses. The minister of telecommunications has given your CEO an ultimatum to deliver the project within 6 months. The scope of the project is to provide internet connectivity to KwaMashu, Kwa-Zulu Natal. Due to the large number of students that have to work from home in order to continue their studies, during COVID-19, the unavailability of internet connectivity has affected the students’ ability to access study content online, which has been escalated to the minister. Your job as the project manager is to ensure that the planning of the infrastructure (fibre) is undertaken, and then the installation is completed within the 6 month period, including the closure of the project. You will handle the full life cycle of the project and you will provide the necessary reports to the stakeholders as per the plan.

1. Explain to the CEO the full life cycle of the project
2.Explain planning of the infrastructure (fibre) is undertaken and installation is completed within 6months.

Answer 1

The project life cycle includes the phases of initiation, planning, execution, monitoring and controlling, and closure. Planning and installation of the fibre infrastructure within six months requires setting clear milestones, a detailed work breakdown, securing resources, coordinating deployment, and continuous monitoring. These phases will be reported to the CEO to meet the ultimatum.

Step-by-step explanation:

Explaining the Full Project Life Cycle to the CEO

The project life cycle includes several phases that you, as the lead project manager, will navigate to ensure the delivery of internet connectivity to KwaMashu within the six-month timeframe. The phases are:

Initiation:

This phase involves defining the project at a high level and aligning it with business goals.

Planning:

Detailed planning occurs here, including setting timelines, defining roles, and allocating resources.

Execution:

The actual work of deploying the internet infrastructure takes place during this phase.

Monitoring and Controlling: Concurrent with execution, this phase involves tracking the project's progress and making necessary adjustments.

Closure: This is the final phase, where the project is completed, reviewed, and formally closed.

Planning and Completion of the Fibre Infrastructure within 6 Months

For the planning and installation of the fibre infrastructure within six months, an aggressive but achievable timeline must be set. This involves:

Identifying key milestones and deliverables.

Developing a comprehensive work breakdown structure (WBS).

Securing the necessary permits and materials quickly.

Coordinating with contractors and teams for swift deployment.

Ensuring continuous monitoring and adjustment to stay on schedule.

Each phase will be closely reported to the CEO and adjusted as necessary to meet the strict deadline set by the minister of telecommunications.