GM591 Unit 3 Assignment SST Proposal
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Scaled Composites Project
Narell A. Haigler
Purdue University Global
GM591: Project Planning and the Project Plan
Dr. Simon Cleveland
November 18, 2023
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Table of Contents
Table of Contents
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Executive Summary
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Introduction
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Project Overview
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Incorporating the XPRIZE Vehicles into the Existing Program
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Establishing the XPRIZE vehicles into a Stand-alone Program
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Establishing a Portfolio of XPRIZE Vehicles
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Recommended Course of Action
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Conclusion
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Resources
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Executive Summary
Individual projects offer the advantage of focused specialization, allowing professionals to develop expertise in a specific area. On the other hand, portfolios with projects provide a broader perspective of an organization’s skills and capabilities. Space Systems Technologies (SST) aims to provide insight on the advantages and disadvantages of individualized project vs. integrated projects vs. portfolio management. The choice between individual projects, integrated projects, and portfolios depends on organizational goals, industry norms, and the specific requirements of Scaled Composites. Without determining best practices to successfully carry out Scaled Composites requirements, Space Systems Technologies is at risk for losing the pursued proposal. Introduction
The integration of the XPRIZE vehicle assembly into an existing program proves to be the most favorable option due to its potential to maximize resource efficiency, capitalize on established expertise, and mitigate the risks associated with pursuing separate projects or portfolios. Space System Technologies can adhere to their strategic plan and mission, while ensuring the continuation of future projects. Project Overview
Incorporating the XPRIZE Vehicles into the Existing Program
The disadvantage of managing multiple projects on a single assembly line poses a unique set of challenges that require careful consideration and planning. One of the primary difficulties revolves around SST resource allocation and time management, “When your project requires
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more resources at a given time than you have available, the resultant resource overload must be managed” (Dobson & Dobson, 2011, p.84). With multiple projects running simultaneously with XPRIZE, it becomes essential for SST prioritize tasks while ensuring that each project receives adequate attention. Additionally, coordination becomes more complex, as different projects may have distinct timelines, requirements, and teams involved (Jainendrakumar, 2015). This can lead to potential conflicts and delays if not effectively managed by SST. Moreover, maintaining quality control and preventing cross-contamination between projects become vital concerns, as errors or inconsistencies that appear in any area project can have a ripple effect in other places. In return, the Scaled Composites project could potentially suffer from scope creep, especially in regards to time and cost. An advantage of having multiple projects on one assembly line can offer several benefits.
First and foremost, it allows for improved efficiency and resource utilization since SST already has the aerospace setup. Instead of dedicating individual assembly lines for each project, multiple projects can be accommodated on a single line, reducing the need for redundant equipment and manpower. According to Scaled Composites, they currently work to integrate their systems during the build process, (Composites, 2023). Integrating multiple projects on one assembly line enables companies to maximize efficiency, optimize resources, foster employee development, and reduce operational costs (Project Management Institute, 2017). Lastly, having multiple projects on a single assembly line can also result in cost savings, as it eliminates the need for separate facilities and maintenance expenses. Establishing the XPRIZE vehicles into a Stand-alone Program
Establishing the XPRIZE vehicles into a stand-alone program offers numerous advantages for Space Systems Technologies (SST). By creating a separate program specifically
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dedicated to XPRIZE vehicles, SST can create a focused identity and attract attention from potential customers and investors. This can exclusivity can help differentiate SST in the competitive landscape and position them as leaders in innovative and win more RFPs (Gido, Clements, & Baker, 2018). Furthermore, a stand-alone XPRIZE program enables SST to allocate
dedicated resources, both human and financial, solely for the development and execution of XPRIZE vehicle projects. This focused approach ensures that SST can devote its full attention and expertise to meeting the specific requirements adding value to the project. Establishing a separate program, SST can collaborate with other like-minded individuals and organizations in the XPRIZE community, fostering partnerships, sharing knowledge, and accelerating progress in this specific field of sub-contracting for rocket assembly. In other words, having a stand-alone program opens the doors to make a foot print in this specific industry. One primary concern is the allocation of resources. By creating a separate program for XPRIZE vehicles, the individual project would be at the mercy of Scaled Composite, and could lead to a lack of balance or potentially hinder progress in other important areas. XPRIZE vehicles may limit the company's flexibility and ability to adapt to changing market demands, “For projects of high dynamic complexity, the project goals are not fixed and may need to be adapted or developed overtime” (Boonstra, & Reezigt, 2023, p.257). It's important to consider whether the XPRIZE vehicles align with long-term goals and the strategic direction of SST, or if they may be more of a short-term opportunity. Lastly, there is a risk of over-specialization. Focusing solely on XPRIZE vehicles may limit SST's ability to explore and pursue other exciting
and potentially valuable projects or opportunities outside of this specific niche. Unless the contract between SST and Scaled Composites builds in more security, the risk would be too great
for Space Systems Technologies to take on as a stand-alone project.
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Establishing a Portfolio of XPRIZE Vehicles
Having a portfolio dedicated solely to Scaled Composites can also several advantages for Space Systems Technologies (SST). Focusing on Scaled Composites allows SST to build a deep understanding of their specific requirements, processes, and preferences. By becoming experts in
their field and consistently delivering high-quality services to Scaled Composites, SST can strengthen their relationship with the client, potentially leading to long-term partnerships and recurring projects (Gido, Clements, & Baker, 2018). Moreover, a portfolio exclusively for Scaled
Composites can enable SST to align their resources, capabilities, and infrastructure specifically to the needs of this client with the organizations mission. Portfolio allows to build a larger scope allowing for greater opportunities, “Rather, the portfolio management function ensures that appropriate work, aligned to the needs of the organization, is charted and executed, that the overall body of work is monitored to ensure that needs are being met, and that the portfolio is appropriately adjusted and balanced as business needs change” (Craig, 2014, p.15). By dedicating a portfolio to Scaled Composites, SST can position themselves as the go-to subcontractor for this client, setting their reputation as a reliable and trusted partner. There are some potential disadvantages to consider on the contrary. SST may become heavily dependent on a single client which poses a greater risk. If Scaled Composites were to reduce their project load or cease operations, it could significantly impact SST's revenue and overall business stability. Over-reliance on one client increases vulnerability to changes in Scaled Composites' priorities, financial circumstances, or market conditions (Swartz, 2008). Additionally, concentrating effort and resources exclusively on Scaled Composites may limit the company's exposure to other potential clients and projects. Lack of diversification could lead to missed opportunities and hinder SST's long-term growth and sustainability. It is important to
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maintain a balanced portfolio with a mix of different clients and projects to ensure stability and adaptability in a changing market (Project Management Institute, 2017). In summary, while a portfolio dedicated to Scaled Composites may initially seem advantageous, it is crucial to consider potential disadvantages, such as over-reliance on one client, limited diversification, reduced exposure to new opportunities, and a potential lack of responsiveness to industry changes.
Recommended Course of Action
Based on the analysis of each available option, the commended course of action is to integrate the XPRIZE vehicle assembly into an existing program. SST can leverage its established resources, expertise, and infrastructure, minimizing the need for significant additional investment or restructuring. Incorporating the XPRIZE vehicles into the existing program allows for seamless integration with ongoing projects and workflows, ensuring synergy and optimization of resources. A collaborative approach promotes knowledge-sharing, fosters a sense of team cohesion, and enhances the overall effectiveness in meeting the requirements of Scaled Composites. SST can strategically minimize risk, capitalize on existing resources, streamline operations, and increase the likelihood of successfully fulfilling the contract while maintaining the company's competitive edge.
Conclusion
To summarize, the integration of the XPRIZE vehicle assembly into an existing program emerges as the most advantageous choice. Not only does it offer the potential to optimize resource efficiency, but it also allows Space System Technologies to tap into established expertise and mitigate risk associated with independent projects or portfolios. It is important that
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SST sticks to their proven abilities, “Factors like the maturity of the product development processes utilized on projects within organizations and organizational maturity relative to resource planning, tools, and general business practices can make a big difference in project performance results” (Bissonette, 2016, p.233). The integration of the XPRIZE vehicle assembly
strengthens the Space System Technologies' specialized expedited assembly expertise
as a leading force in the field, and cost-effective space exploration.
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Resources
Bissonette, M. (2016).
Project Risk Management: A Practical Implementation Approach
. Project
Management Institute.
Boonstra, A., & Reezigt, C. (2023). A Complexity Framework for Project Management Strategies.
Project Management Journal
,
54
(3), 253–267. https://doi.org/10.1177/87569728221142229
Craig Letavec. (2014).
Strategic Benefits Realization: Optimizing Value Through Programs, Portfolios and Organizational Change Management
. J. Ross Publishing.
Composites, S. (2019, May 9). Assembly
. Scaled Composites. https://scaled.com/build/assembly/
Dobson, M. S., & Dobson, D. S. (2011).
Managing Multiple Projects
. AMA Self-Study.
Gido, J., Clements, J., & Baker, R. (2018).
Successful project management
(7th ed.). Cengage.
Jainendrakumar, T. D. (2015). Project Quality Management for Project Managers.
PM World Journal
,
4
(7), 1–17.
Project Management Institute (PMI). (2017).
A guide to the project management body of knowledge
(
PMBOK
®
Guide
) (6th ed.). Project Management Institute (PMI).
Swartz, S. M. (2008). Managerial perceptions of project stability.
Project Management Journal
,
39
(4), 17–32. https://doi.org/10.1002/pmj.20078
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