Table of Contents
How Is a Project Distinguished from an Operation in Systems Engineering?
Learn the fundamental definition of a project as a temporary endeavor with specific objectives and how project management provides the framework for planning, executing, and closing it, which is distinct from ongoing operational management.
Question
What constitutes a project and project management in systems engineering?
A. A project is an informal task with flexible goals; project management adapts to changing objectives.
B. A project is a continuous operation; project management oversees ongoing maintenance.
C. A project is a temporary endeavor with specific objectives; project management involves planning, executing, and closing these endeavors.
D. A project is a permanent installation; project management ensures long-term functionality.
Answer
C. A project is a temporary endeavor with specific objectives; project management involves planning, executing, and closing these endeavors.
Explanation
Projects are temporary with defined objectives, and project management is about overseeing their execution from start to finish.
This definition accurately captures the two core concepts as they apply to systems engineering and general management principles.
Project
A project is fundamentally temporary, meaning it has a definite beginning and a definite end. The end is reached when the project’s objectives have been achieved, or when the project is terminated. It is undertaken to create a unique product, service, or result. This uniqueness distinguishes projects from routine operations. For example, designing and building a new satellite is a project; monitoring that satellite’s daily transmissions is an operation.
Project Management
This is the application of knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques to project activities to meet the project requirements. It encompasses a structured lifecycle that includes initiating, planning, executing, monitoring and controlling, and closing the work of a team to achieve specific goals and meet specific success criteria.
In systems engineering, this framework is essential for managing the complexity of developing a new system. The project provides the temporary structure needed to bring together diverse teams and resources to create the system, after which the project concludes and the system transitions into its operational life.
Analysis of Incorrect Options
A. A project is an informal task with flexible goals: This is incorrect. Projects are formal, structured undertakings with clearly defined and documented objectives and scope.
B. A project is a continuous operation; project management oversees ongoing maintenance: This describes operations management, not project management. Operations are ongoing and repetitive, whereas projects are temporary and unique.
D. A project is a permanent installation; project management ensures long-term functionality: A project may create a permanent installation, but the project itself is the temporary effort to create it. Ensuring long-term functionality is part of the system’s sustainment or operations phase, which occurs after the project is complete.
Systems Engineering Fundamentals certification exam assessment practice question and answer (Q&A) dump including multiple choice questions (MCQ) and objective type questions, with detail explanation and reference available free, helpful to pass the Systems Engineering Fundamentals exam and earn Systems Engineering Fundamentals certificate.