Predictive Project Management

 

Summary of Predictive Project Management

1. Definition and Overview:

   • Predictive Project Management, also known as Waterfall, focuses on delivering projects with a fixed and well-defined scope.
   • It follows a structured approach using 49 processes organized into five process groups: Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring and Controlling, and Closing.

2. Key Characteristics:

   • Fixed Scope:
     • The scope is determined at the beginning and does not evolve during the project.
   • Sequential Process:
     • Tasks follow a linear progression: plan, execute, and deliver.
   • Minimal Changes:
     • Changes are tightly controlled to avoid scope creep.
   • Comprehensive Planning:
     • Extensive upfront planning is performed to ensure clarity and alignment.

3. The Five Process Groups:

   • Initiating (2 Processes):
     • Develop Project Charter: Formalizes project authorization.
     • Identify Stakeholders: Identifies and documents stakeholders.
   • Planning (24 Processes):
     • Involves creating the Project Management Plan, which outlines how to execute, monitor, control, and close the project.
     • Addresses scope, schedule, budget, risks, communication, and procurement.
   • Executing (10 Processes):
     • Focuses on completing project work, acquiring resources, managing teams, and engaging stakeholders.
   • Monitoring and Controlling (11 Processes):
     • Ensures the project stays aligned with the plan through regular tracking, adjustments, and issue management.
   • Closing (1 Process):
     • Finalizes the project or phase, archives records, releases resources, and delivers the final product.

4. Lifecycle and Phases:

   • Multiple Phases:
     • Each phase of a project (e.g., design, coding, testing) uses all 49 processes.
     • Example: In a software project:
       • Design phase outputs design schematics.
       • Coding phase outputs completed code.
       • Testing phase outputs test results.
   • Repeating Processes:
     • Processes like Identify Stakeholders and Identify Risks are iterative, as stakeholders and risks change over time.

5. Difference from Agile:

   • Planning:
     • Predictive: Extensive upfront planning with minimal changes.
     • Agile: Iterative planning throughout the project.
   • Scope:
     • Predictive: Fixed scope, minimal flexibility.
     • Agile: Evolving scope, flexibility is a priority.
   • Control:
     • Predictive: Managed by the project manager.
     • Agile: Team-driven control with shared responsibilities.

6. Real-World Applications:

   • Construction: Building skyscrapers where scope, structure, and materials are fixed.
   • Manufacturing: Setting up assembly lines with precise specifications.
   • Software Development (Waterfall): Developing applications with predefined features and stages.

7. Key Considerations for Exams:

   • Understand the 49 processes and their grouping into the five process groups.
   • Focus on how processes interact and their purpose within project phases.
   • Know the inputs, tools, techniques, and outputs (ITTOs) associated with these processes.

8. Highlighted Points:

   • Iterative Use:
     • Processes are repeated within each project phase and adapt to phase-specific requirements.
   • Risk and Stakeholder Management:
     • Risks and stakeholders must be continuously identified and addressed.
   • Outcome Focus:
     • Each phase outputs a deliverable that contributes to the final project outcome.

Key Takeaway:

Predictive Project Management is ideal for projects with a fixed scope and predictable outcomes. By applying the 49 processes across phases, project managers ensure structured planning, efficient execution, and controlled delivery. "Plan thoroughly, execute predictably, and deliver confidently."