Project Life Cycles

Question 1

Describe a Linear Life Cycle

Answer 1

Sequential series of steps, each phase of a project would provide only partial capability until the final desired state is reached at the end of the last phase.

Question 2

Describe an Iterative Life Cycle

Answer 2

used in agile development projects where requirements and solutions are developed gradually through testing and learning.

Different development steps are allowed to perform in parallel, time boxes are used to acquire insight and gain feedback and evolve the development.

Question 3

Describe a Hybrid Life Cycle

Answer 3

pragmatic mix approach fusing together elements of both predictive and adaptive perspectives.

Using iterative methods early in a project were the uncertainty is greatest following it up with sequential stages once outputs are more defined.

Question 4

List 3 Benefits of using a Linear Life Cycle

Answer 4

1. Transparent format that stakeholders understand.
2. Provides fixed requirements.
3. Entire cost is predetermined so no overspend.

Question 5

List 3 Benefits of and Iterative Life Cycle

Answer 5

1. Earlier Return on some benefits rather than waiting until the end.

2.Can accommodate changes in a cost effective way.

3. Less feedback post project because already eliminated in development.

Question 6

List 3 Benefits of a Hybrid Life Cycle

Answer 6

1. Greater adoption to continuous improvement.
2. Improved planning and efficiency
3. Greater Estimating accuracy.

Question 7

What is the purpose of the extended life cycle?

Answer 7

Ensures that the accountability and governance of the investment stays with a single organisation until the change is fully embedded.

Offering the missing connection from handover to benefits realisation, while preventing the formation of knowledge boundaries between project teams and end users.

Question 8

List 4 Examples of Knowledge Outputs informing Decision Making

Answer 8

1. Lessons learned - from similar projects.
2. Sharing Knowledge and experience

3.Documented Processes and Procedures decides what resource is required.

4. Published standards - gain insight from best practice.

Question 9

4 Types of Life Cycle Review

Answer 9

Benefits Review (6-12 Months after handover)

Independent Audit (Deployment)

Gate Reviews (progress review)

Post Project Review

Question 10

Why might a project close early?

Answer 10

No longer viable.

Did not continue to deliver output.

Change in overall strategy of the business.

Question 11

What benefits are there from a project closing early?

Answer 11

Future Learning

Redirection of Funds

New Opportunities Emerge