Let\'s say that I am an executive sponsor for a large information system project
ID: 429559 • Letter: L
Question
Let's say that I am an executive sponsor for a large information system project, and I have hired you as a consultant to run the project for me. We sat down at the beginning of the project and discussed my requirements, budget, etc., and we developed a plan for how to execute. Based on that plan, you have begun developing the system. About a week into the project, I came into your office and said that I needed to add some features. The changes seemed innocuous, so you agreed. Today, I walk into your office and say, "Well, I know we agreed on the features for this project, but I just got out of a meeting with my boss, and I found out I need to add more functionality to the system. If we don't make this happen, I'm pretty sure I'll be out of a job."
How would you approach this conversation?
Explanation / Answer
As a consultant for a large information system, you develop the costing based on the modules that needs to be developed for the system.
The areas that will be considered at the initial stages are outputs, inputs, file design, hardware and software.
When more functionality is added, the modules will increase causing a change in all the above components like file design, hardware, software.
If at the current stage of the project, its possible to modify the project and add the desired functionalities, then the same will be communicated.
If, however, the files have been designed as such that adding more funcionalities at this stage is not possible, then the same will have to be communicated to the sponsor. Or if, the current hardware specifications installed and the current software in place will not allow any more changes in the project, the same will have to be communicated to the sponsor.
In this case, you will have to approach the conversation in a very rational and practical manner. You will have to make the sponsor see that it is not possible now to alter the design of the IS project. After making the sponsor see the rationality and the impossibility about adding new functionalities, you will discuss the feasible alternatives with the sponsor.
The feasible alternatives will outline the options as to how to incorporate the new functionalities. The project can be started from scratch, without much extra cost.
This approach will reduce the panic that is currently bothering the sponsor and make him handle the situation in a practical manner.
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