Characteristics and Types of Project

 

Characteristics of a project

A project is a set of interdependent tasks that have a common goal. Projects have the following characteristics:

A clear start and end date – There are projects that last several years but a project cannot go on forever. It needs to have a clear beginning, a definite end, and an overview of what happens in between.

A project creates something new – Every project is unique, producing something that did not previously exist. A project is a one-time, once-off activity, never to be repeated exactly the same way again.

A project has boundaries – A project operates within certain constraints of time, money, quality, and functionality. We’ll see more about this in later sections.

A project is not business as usual – Projects are often confused with processes. A Process is a series of routine, predefined steps to perform a particular function, say, expense reimbursement approvals. It’s not a one-off activity. It determines how a specific function is performed every single time.

Types of projects

Traditional projects: These are run sequentially in phases. These phases are typically initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and closure. Most high-cost infrastructure projects make use of traditional project management.

Agile projects: These are used mainly in software development. They are people-focused and adaptive. They also typically have short turnaround times.

Remote projects: Remote project management is usually used by distributed teams that seldom meet in person. Handling freelance contributors is an example of a remote project.

Agency projects: Agency projects are outsourced to an agency that is likely to have projects with multiple clients. Marketing and design projects are commonly outsourced to agencies.