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9 pages/≈2475 words
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Harvard
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Education
Type:
Coursework
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English (U.S.)
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Topic:

System Thinking for Managers in Project Management

Coursework Instructions:

Assignment “System Thinking for Managers”
This assignment is to demonstrate your ability to use systems thinking, diagnosis and modelling tools to address issues arising in projects or organizations to manage them better. 
Apply the below mentioned systems methodologies discussed at the block workshop to the analysis of a problem at your workplace (or a workplace you are familiar with), in a project management or an organizational context, and present a way forward to improve the situation. 
The methodologies used at the workshop are System Dynamics Models, Soft Systems Methodology and Viable Systems Model. 
(1) Provide a brief description of the system/ problem under investigation and the context (max 250 words).
(2) Describe and analyze the system or problem under investigation, unpacking the dynamics involved, exploring how events are linked and the emergent meanings or themes using diagrams where appropriate (max 1000 words).
(3) Explain what insights and/or solutions the methodology (ies) provide(s). You may like to ask questions such as – Does the system have a viable continuing role? Is the system capable of adapting to changes? Is the system working as it was intended providing the expected benefits to its stakeholders? (max 750 words).
(4) Evaluate the potential of the methodology (ies) used in your work as a project manager or a manager in an organization. (max 500 words). 
(5) List of references used 
(6) Use Harvard style of Referencing 
(7) Use these methodologies System Dynamics Models, Soft Systems Methodology and Viable Systems Model. with proper tables, figures , charts and diagrams etc

Coursework Sample Content Preview:

System Thinking For Managers in Project Management
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Lecture
System Thinking For Managers in Project Management
A Brief Description of the System Problem that needs Investigation
Naturally, there are several project management challenges; one of the biggest problem project managers experiences when managing multi-projects is how to utilize resources effectively. Projects team experience the lack of accurate and updated information about the resources and work schedules. Project management is demanding, requiring careful resource allocation. In many situations, project teams schedule weekly meetings to determine the workflow. Most organization lack centralized project management system making it challenging to understand the workload (Kerzner, 2013, p.59). A project manager cannot determine how each resource has been allocated to the various phases of a project. The main challenge in resource allocation is how to adapt a system that permits sharing of hundreds of information among the project teams scattered in different locations. Organizations without centralized project management systems use simple packages like Excel spreadsheets to manage their workload (Kerzner, 2013, p.67).
Using Microsoft Excel spreadsheets is a cumbersome exercise that might delay the project completion. Balancing all the elements of project management including time, scope, money, and people is a complex process that requires advanced solutions. Resource utilization is the key to a successful project; however, over allocation is likely to occur when managing multiple projects or when inappropriate technology is used in managing resources (Kerzner 2013, p.109). Most project managers prefer using Microsoft excel spreadsheets in project management to coordinate and track resource utilization. Unfortunately, not all web-based software can effectively allocate resources as expected (Kerzner, 2013, p.134).
Analysis of the Problem under Investigation
Resource management is the process of effectively and efficiently deploying financial resources, inventory, human skills, and information technology to accomplish a project; resource allocation requires planning of all these resources. Proper planning helps in proper utilization of the available resources. Companies have limited resources for projects hence proper utilization of the resources determines the success of a project (Clemen & Reilly, 2013, p. 88).
Project managers need to align their plans with the limited budget by effectively allocating resources. Time management is usually an overlooked factor when allocating resources. Projects have time limits, therefore, completing a project within the stipulated time means allocating duties and financial resources on specific periods that will help complete the project. Delays in completion may affect the project outcome. Choosing effective tools is a critical process of ensuring that resources are equally distributed and well managed (Clemen & Reilly, 2013, p.99).
The figure below represents a Project Management Cycle. This is crucial in understanding the management processes involved in most of the projects in organizations.

(Clemen & Reilly, 2013, p.101).
Organizations use information...
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