Project Fundamentals

What is a Project?

A project is a temporary endeavor undertaken to create a unique product, service or result.  A project is temporary in that it has a defined start and finish time line, and therefore defined scope and resources.  A project is unique in that it is not a routine operation, but a specific set of operations designed to accomplish a singular goal.

Key takeaway: Projects are distinct, temporary efforts and aimed at creating unique capabilities and outcomes.

Typical Project Characteristics

  • Shared resources
  • Cross-functional teamwork
  • Uncertainty & risk
  • Outcome not fully known
  • Business operation change
  • Defined deliverable & time lines
  • Significant communication
  • Training for end-user adaptation

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Project & Resources

OIT PMO offers templates, phases, and training to support project management at UT Dallas