Purpose
The purpose of this assessment is to measure your ability to analyse a case study for project constraints for the project specifics. This assessment will measure your ability to:
- • Demonstrate understanding of the concept of IT projects
- • Demonstrate understanding of the theory and interdependencies behind the time
- • Demonstrate understanding of the role of project manager and the specific requirements of the case study
- • Write and reference to an academic standard
Specific Instructions
To complete the assessment, you will write 1500 words addressing three questions. Key tip: students who excel in this assessment are able to demonstrate an understanding of the project management theory taught in the subject and can connect this to the specific aspects of the case study.
Students can reference the theory covered in the subject as well as the information outlined in the case study description. You do not need to source additional external references. If you choose to do so, please ensure your reference connects specifically to what you are discussing or quoting.
You must complete this individually. Do not collaborate or share your work with another student.
Format
This assignment should be written in a neat, professional, and engaging manner using report format, meaning that you need to develop coherent, well-supported and logical arguments following a basic report structure.
Case Study: Digital Transformation of a Tech Retail Chain
Background:
RetailTech, a leading technology retail chain specializing in consumer electronics, smart devices, and digital accessories, operates over 500 stores nationwide. The company is undergoing a major digital transformation to enhance customer experience, streamline operations, and improve data-driven decision-making. The transformation includes implementing a cloud-based Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system that integrates sales, inventory management, customer relationship management (CRM), and supply chain operations. This modernization aims to create a seamless omnichannel shopping experience, similar to major retailers like Best Buy and JB Hi-Fi.
RetailTech has hired a consultant to oversee the ERP system implementation and ensure a smooth transition from legacy systems. The project must align with business objectives, optimize workflows, and support future scalability. The company also needs to ensure the new system complies with industry regulations and data security standards. Key stakeholders include store managers, frontline employees, IT teams, executives, and customers who interact with the system.
The project consists of several phases: requirement gathering, vendor selection, system customization, data migration, integration with existing systems, testing, and user training. The transformation requires coordination across multiple departments and effective change management to ensure adoption. The implementation timeline and budget are critical considerations, requiring efficient resource allocation and risk mitigation strategies.
RetailTech faces several challenges, including resistance to change, potential operational disruptions, ensuring system compatibility, and maintaining business continuity. The company expects the transformation to improve operational efficiency, enhance customer satisfaction, and provide actionable insights through data analytics.
As the consultant for this project, review the case study and provide a written response to the following questions.
Questions
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1. Understanding Project Characteristics (5 marks)
- Describe the fundamental characteristics of a project and explain how they differentiate from ongoing business operations. Use relevant examples from RetailTech’s digital transformation to support your response. 2. Evaluating Project Constraints (15 marks)
- Examine the relationship between time, cost, and quality in this project. Discuss the potential impacts of prioritizing one constraint over the others and how trade-offs could affect project outcomes. 3. Selecting a Project Management Approach (20 marks)
- Assess various project management methodologies and determine the most suitable approach for RetailTech’s transformation. Your response should include:
- • A comparison of methodologies such as Waterfall, Agile, Lean and Hybrid.
- • A justified recommendation of the best-fit methodology for this project, considering its complexity, scope, and business needs. 4. Identifying and Managing Risks (10 marks)
- Explain the advantages of hiring a project manager. How does their role in planning, risk management, and team coordination contribute to the successful delivery of the project?
Research and references
Please use APA 7th edition as your referencing style. For more information, see the Academic Referencing Tool of the Library.
The reference list is not included in the word count. In-text citations are included in the word count. Note that Wikipedia and similar sources are NOT acceptable for any assessments in this subject.
Marking Criteria and Rubric
