Info Tech Chapter 2

Chapter 2 Discussion Questions

1. What does it mean to take a systems view of a project? How does taking this view apply to project management?

a) To take a systems view of a project one would look at the project in three aspects that are all interelated amongst the project as a whole. The three aspects of a project are business, technology, and organization which is refered to as systems management.

b) Taking a systems view of a project is essential to completing a successful project, it helps to address any problems within the three aspects of the systems managment, as well as identify key stakeholders and the impact the project will have on those stakeholders

2. Explain the four frames of organizations. How can they help project managers understand the organizational context for their projects?

a) i. Structural Frame - The frame that focuses on the different group roles within an organization and their responsibilities to meet goals and policies set by management. Usually depicted in an organizational chart.

ii. Human Resources Frame - Focuses on producing peace and harmony between the needs of the organization and the needs of the people.

iii. Political Frame - Addresses organizational and personal politics (politics being identified as the competition amongst groups or indivduals for power and leadership).

iv. Symbolic Frame - Focuses on symbols and meanings, the most important aspect in this frame is to not focus on what an event is about but what does the event mean? The culture of a company and its understanding of the culture is a crucial part in the symbolic frame.

b) Project managers must understand and learn to work within the four frames of an organization to function well in an organization. The structural frame gives and outline to what needs to be done as well as who does...