Project Management Report

Assignment Brief

Assignment Information

Coventry University has been growing tremendously over the past years and its facilities need to be constantly updated and expanded. You were recently hired as the project manager to analyse the suitability of a new university building and oversee the planning and development of this construction project. 

You are to:

1. assess the feasibility of the project, drawing on appropriate project management theory and frameworks

2. prepare an initial plan that includes the project scope, the project Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) and the Gantt chart, considering a minimum of 30 different tasks and 4 milestones

3. analyse the main stakeholders and provide recommendations on how these stakeholders should be managed to maximise the chance of achieving the project’s objectives. 

You are required to research and apply project management theory in order to successfully complete this assignment. In order to pass, you will need to use a minimum of 30 separate sources, including a minimum of 15 textbooks and/or scientific journal articles.

Report recommended structure

Your assignment should be presented as a report, using the following structure: 

1. Executive summary 

2. Feasibility study

3. Project scope, WBS and Gantt chart

4. Project stakeholder assessment

5. Reference list

Sample Answer

Planning a New University Building at Coventry University

Executive Summary

Coventry University has experienced rapid growth, necessitating the development of a new building to accommodate its expanding facilities. This report examines the feasibility of constructing the building, presents an initial project plan, and analyses stakeholder engagement to ensure successful project delivery. Drawing on established project management theory and frameworks, the report highlights the critical role of structured planning, resource management, and stakeholder communication in achieving project objectives.

Feasibility Study

The feasibility of the proposed building project is assessed through technical, financial, operational, and legal perspectives. Technically, modern construction techniques and modular designs can deliver a sustainable, flexible, and energy-efficient facility (Kerzner, 2017). Financially, budget projections indicate a construction cost of approximately £25 million, which aligns with available funding and potential university loans, considering a 10% contingency margin for unforeseen costs (PMI, 2021). Operational feasibility is supported by the anticipated increase in student enrolment and the requirement for additional lecture halls, laboratories, and administrative spaces. Legally, compliance with UK building regulations, planning permissions, and accessibility standards will be mandatory.

Applying the Project Life Cycle framework, the project will proceed through initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and closure phases, ensuring structured progress and risk mitigation (Turner, 2016). Risk assessment identifies potential delays in permits, cost overruns, and stakeholder resistance as the main challenges. Mitigation strategies include regular project reviews, contingency budgeting, and proactive communication with university governance and local authorities.

Project Scope, Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), and Gantt Chart

Project Scope:

The project aims to construct a multi-purpose university building encompassing lecture theatres, laboratories, offices, and communal spaces. The scope covers site preparation, design approval, procurement, construction, and commissioning. The project will adhere to sustainability standards, including energy efficiency and environmentally friendly materials.

Work Breakdown Structure (WBS):

The WBS includes 30 key tasks across five phases: initiation, planning, design, construction, and commissioning. Examples of tasks include: site survey, architectural design, budget approval, procurement of materials, foundation works, structural framing, internal fit-out, installation of HVAC and electrical systems, quality inspections, and staff training. Four major milestones are identified: completion of design phase, completion of structural works, building handover, and final commissioning.

Gantt Chart:

A detailed Gantt chart illustrates the project timeline, with tasks scheduled sequentially and critical dependencies highlighted. The chart ensures alignment of resources, allows monitoring of task durations, and supports timely delivery. Each milestone marks the completion of a key phase and provides checkpoints for stakeholder review and approval.

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