Purpose of this assignment This assignment is designed to give learners an opportunity to demonstrate the broad understanding of all the learning outcomes expected in the unit. It provides the learners the opportunity to demonstrate understanding of project management principles. They also have opportunity to show evidences of effective planning of human resources. Further, this will also provide opportunity to demonstrate how different project management techniques are used to meet the project objectives. Scenario The Palm Trees Spa is a premium resort located in the warm tropical region in the Pacific Ocean. It has successfully blended the concept of combining sea, sand and sun to provide the visitors a dream holiday right from its launch five years ago. Due to its reputation for excellent customer service, beautifully landscaped tropical gardens and the promise of a perfect stay for its guests, Palm Trees Spa has fast become a popular holiday destination in the region. However, the resort is not without any shortcomings. Its major drawback is the lack of strong online presence and absence of online reservation system which has left them weaker in attracting high value international tourists and corporate clients. It is also noted that competitors use management information systems for streamlining their operation and improving the service delivery which unfortunately is not in use here in Palm Trees Spa. The management is considering the adoption of a new technological development initiative to solve the issues facing the resort for which the board has recently sanctioned the budget. The works mainly involves i) developing interactive websites for its marketing purposes ii) install online reservation systems and iii) to implement an integrated MIS system in the resort to facilitate the entire operations. The project is expected to put the resort into the worldwide internet market. The system should facilitate the prospective clients to book holidays online and be able to communicate with the resort through interactive internet system. Task 1 Imagine you have been assigned to solve the technological shortcomings of Palm Trees Spa. As an experienced manager having handled numerous operations as well as projects in the past, you see the necessity of managing these jobs as a Project. In order to convince the management on your view, you are required to do the following: a) Describe the background and the principles of the project management. (covers assessment criteria 1.1) b) Develop the success and failure criteria for the proposed project to appraise its viability. (covers assessment criteria 1.2) c) Explain the principles behind setting up the systems and procedures for the effective use of resources in the project management. (covers assessment criteria 1.3) d) Explain the key elements involved in the process of terminating the project and conducting post post-project appraisals. (covers assessment criteria 1.4) To achieve M1 demonstrate the ability of identifying the right solution for project management challenges through evidences of extensive research and practical applications. To achieve D3 demonstrate that innovative and creative thoughts have been applied in developing the project management system and procedure including effective success and failure criteria and the review process. Task 2 The project in its magnitude, entails extra manpower and skills. Given the successful track record for the business so far and the intensity of the problem it faces currently, the management has taken an open view for further investments in technology. However, the call for investments need to be supported by well-designed plans and procedures. Currently the company have 12 staffs, four in marketing and sales, a financial manager, two administrators, three cleaners and the rest in customer service but unfortunately, they have no IT personnel required to carry out the proposed project. As a Project Planner and Manager you are required to do the following: a) i) Plan and specify human resources and requirements for the project.(covers assessment criteria 2.4) ii) Identify the most appropriate organizational structure, roles and responsibilities of the participants for the project.(covers assessment criteria 2.1). b) Show how the structure and roles proposed above helps to control and co-ordinate the project. (covers assessment criteria 2.2) c) Assess the project leadership styles and qualities required for the proposed project.(covers assessment criteria 2.3) To achieve M3 demonstrate the use of right business terminology and principles in planning human resources needs and present the organizational chart professionally, coherently and logically. To achieve D1 demonstrate that a definite conclusion has been made in planning human resources needs through detailed analysis of roles and position to develop the organizational structures suitable in the given business context. Task 3 Finally, you are just at the verge of delivering the proposed technological development project for the Palm Tree Spa. Herein you are required to breakdown the project work into series of activities and plan these activities with the help of appropriate planning software. Assign the costs to each activities as appropriate based on your assumptions. a) Prepare a detailed project plan for the proposed project clearly establishing each components in the effective organization of the project. (covers assessment criteria 3.1) b) Apply the appropriate techniques for scheduling the project activities, estimating time and controlling costs of the project. (covers assessment criteria 3.2) c) Analyse the methods used to measure project performance. (covers assessment criteria 3.3) d) Explain the change control procedure for evaluating the project at completion. (covers assessment criteria 3.4) To achieve M2 demonstrate the ability to read and understand the case study and use a range of project scheduling tools. To achieve D2 present well-articulated WBS, well presented PERT or GANNT chart used to plan and manage the project activities to a successful end. Evidence checklist Summary of evidence required by student Task 1 An essay describing the project planning principles, systems, criteria for a project to success or fail and the effective project appraisal processes. Task 2 An effective plan to manage human resources in the project in the assignment scenario. Task 3 A detailed work breakdown structures presented through the use of project scheduling tools in planning the project.