Evaluating Project Success and Performance

2015 ◽  
pp. 291-292
Author(s):  
Zvi H. Aronson ◽  
Thomas G. Lechler

This research presents and validates a model of project team morale and its influence on project success. We operationally define morale in project-based work as a multi-faceted variable encompassing suggested definitions offered in former studies. Unlike past research, we investigate the mediating effects between these facets of morale and success. A structural equation model is proposed and empirically tested to investigate the interdependencies between the facets of project team morale and how they promote project success. The results show that project team morale explains 25% of the variance in project success. Findings provide project leaders with a tool to enhance project success by influencing employees’ morale, rather than solely focusing on traditional project planning and controlling activities. We provide practical implications for project team leadership and performance.


Author(s):  
Robert Chee Choong Gan ◽  
Christina May May Chin

Due to alarmingly high failure rates attributed to either a lack of project implementation or if implemented, poor results in organizations, many PM consulting organizations have begun developing their own PM maturity models (PM3) to assess organization maturity level, to identify their clients' PM maturity gap, and to provide a pathway by which their clients could move up the maturity scale and performance. Despite the many claims of PM3 assessment capabilities, the lack of success in market adoption of PM3 models suggests the need for more studies to identify if these are due to the many definition of project success, the lack of consensus of what the components of PM3 should be, or the increasing expectations of the PM community. Thus, this chapter aims to identify the reasons behind differing organizations' views on the dimension of project success, components of PM3's direct impact on organizational performance, and how PM maturity can be measured and correlated to the various level of organizational success with a new approach known as DPM3.


Author(s):  
Kimberly Stowers ◽  
James Oglesby ◽  
Shirley Sonesh ◽  
Kevin Leyva ◽  
Chelsea Iwig ◽  
...  

Objective: We have developed a framework for guiding measurement in human–machine systems. Background: The assessment of safety and performance in human–machine systems often relies on direct measurement, such as tracking reaction time and accidents. However, safety and performance emerge from the combination of several variables. The assessment of precursors to safety and performance are thus an important part of predicting and improving outcomes in human–machine systems. Method: As part of an in-depth literature analysis involving peer-reviewed, empirical articles, we located and classified variables important to human–machine systems, giving a snapshot of the state of science on human–machine system safety and performance. Using this information, we created a framework of safety and performance in human–machine systems. Results: This framework details several inputs and processes that collectively influence safety and performance. Inputs are divided according to human, machine, and environmental inputs. Processes are divided into attitudes, behaviors, and cognitive variables. Each class of inputs influences the processes and, subsequently, outcomes that emerge in human–machine systems. Conclusion: This framework offers a useful starting point for understanding the current state of the science and measuring many of the complex variables relating to safety and performance in human-machine systems. Application: This framework can be applied to the design, development, and implementation of automated machines in spaceflight, military, and health care settings. We present a hypothetical example in our write-up of how it can be used to aid in project success.


2016 ◽  
Author(s):  
Victor V. Ribeiro ◽  
Guilherme H. Travassos

Software testing aims to reveal failures due to the lack of conformity (defects) among functional and non-functional requirements and the implemented system. Thus, defects can be identified and fixed, improving software quality. However, despite several works emphasizing the importance of non-functional requirements (NFRs), there is an insufficient amount of software testing approaches dealing with them. The lack of NFR evaluation may be the cause of low-quality software that does not meet users need, influencing software project success. Goal: To organize a body of knowledge regarding NFRs and software testing approaches available in the technical literature and reveal the gaps between testable NFRs and software testing approaches. Method: To perform structured literature reviews to identify NFRs and software testing approaches dealing with testable NFRs. To combine both results, reveal research opportunities and organize a body of knowledge regarding NFRs and software testing approaches. Results: From 224 identified NFRs, 87 were described, and 47 software testing approaches observed. Only eight approaches are empirically evaluated. No testing approaches were identified for 11 testable NFRs. Furthermore, regarding the testing process, we did not observe any testing approach covering the test planning phase. Conclusion: Despite their importance, many testable NFRs seem not be tested due to the lack of appropriate software testing approaches yet. Also, the existing testing approaches do not cover all testing processes activities and, in general, lack empirical evidence about their feasibility and performance, making their use in software projects risky.


2018 ◽  
Vol 19 (4) ◽  
pp. 1073-1079 ◽  
Author(s):  
J. Dalton

Abstract A performance-based contract (PBC) for non-revenue water (NRW) reduction was executed in the Muharraq Governorate of the Kingdom of Bahrain between 2013 and 2016. The contract included a mixture of fixed and performance-based payment terms. The performance element included the establishment of 35 District Metered Areas (DMAs) and the targeted reduction of NRW by 15 percentage points within the project catchment. The contract was a partnership between the contractor and the utility, whereby the contractor undertook the investigative work, while the utility was responsible for executing all resulting construction activities. A number of important lessons were learnt that should be applied to future projects. The contract design arguably placed too much risk upon the contractor. The original project timescale proved to be completely unrealistic. The data collected following DMA establishment enabled the cause of NRW in each DMA to be determined and the appropriate action taken. The quick win for real losses was automated pressure control, while permanent monitoring of large industrial users represented the same for apparent losses. Knowledge transfer to the utility proved to be arguably more important than achievement of contractual NRW targets. The contractor–utility working relationship proved crucial in facilitating eventual project success.


2017 ◽  
Vol 10 (4) ◽  
pp. 796-821 ◽  
Author(s):  
Matthias Albert ◽  
Patrick Balve ◽  
Konrad Spang

Purpose Barnes’ Iron Triangle was one of the first attempts to evaluate project success based on time, cost and performance, which were portrayed as interdependent dimensions. Over time, these criteria were expanded and especially criteria taking the satisfaction of stakeholder groups into account are becoming more and more popular. The purpose of this paper is to find out whether specific patterns for the selection of project success criteria across various fields of applications emerged which has not been regarded in literature before. Furthermore, the authors seek to identify of additional key factors influencing project success assessment next to the choice of project success criteria. Design/methodology/approach The paper uses a review of recent literature published in academic journals, in standard references and in widespread project management frameworks (Organisational Competence Baseline, PRINCE2 and PMBoK Guide). Findings The findings show that Barnes’ ideas are an integral part of all approaches investigated in the study. Additionally, the relevance of the so-called “soft criteria” related to the satisfaction of stakeholder groups, could be substantiated. However, the authors found no indications that patterns for the selection of project success criteria have emerged across various fields of applications. Factors influencing project success assessment are not taken into account in the examined articles in a systematic manner. This motivates for further research in this field. Research limitations/implications Access limitations, papers not yet digitally available or the interpretations have an impact on the results. Practical implications For appropriate project assessment the sound and well-rounded selection of hard and soft criteria and the consideration that not the field of application, but influencing factors yet to be analysed influence the selection of project success criteria are crucial. Project management professionals should choose the criteria suitable for their projects individually on a project-by-project basis. Originality/value This paper reveals that no patterns have so far been developed to assess project success in various fields of application. Furthermore, factors influencing project success assessment are not considered in a systematic manner.


Author(s):  
H. M. Thieringer

It has repeatedly been show that with conventional electron microscopes very fine electron probes can be produced, therefore allowing various micro-techniques such as micro recording, X-ray microanalysis and convergent beam diffraction. In this paper the function and performance of an SIEMENS ELMISKOP 101 used as a scanning transmission microscope (STEM) is described. This mode of operation has some advantages over the conventional transmission microscopy (CTEM) especially for the observation of thick specimen, in spite of somewhat longer image recording times.Fig.1 shows schematically the ray path and the additional electronics of an ELMISKOP 101 working as a STEM. With a point-cathode, and using condensor I and the objective lens as a demagnifying system, an electron probe with a half-width ob about 25 Å and a typical current of 5.10-11 amp at 100 kV can be obtained in the back focal plane of the objective lens.


Author(s):  
Huang Min ◽  
P.S. Flora ◽  
C.J. Harland ◽  
J.A. Venables

A cylindrical mirror analyser (CMA) has been built with a parallel recording detection system. It is being used for angular resolved electron spectroscopy (ARES) within a SEM. The CMA has been optimised for imaging applications; the inner cylinder contains a magnetically focused and scanned, 30kV, SEM electron-optical column. The CMA has a large inner radius (50.8mm) and a large collection solid angle (Ω > 1sterad). An energy resolution (ΔE/E) of 1-2% has been achieved. The design and performance of the combination SEM/CMA instrument has been described previously and the CMA and detector system has been used for low voltage electron spectroscopy. Here we discuss the use of the CMA for ARES and present some preliminary results.The CMA has been designed for an axis-to-ring focus and uses an annular type detector. This detector consists of a channel-plate/YAG/mirror assembly which is optically coupled to either a photomultiplier for spectroscopy or a TV camera for parallel detection.


Author(s):  
Joe A. Mascorro ◽  
Gerald S. Kirby

Embedding media based upon an epoxy resin of choice and the acid anhydrides dodecenyl succinic anhydride (DDSA), nadic methyl anhydride (NMA), and catalyzed by the tertiary amine 2,4,6-Tri(dimethylaminomethyl) phenol (DMP-30) are widely used in biological electron microscopy. These media possess a viscosity character that can impair tissue infiltration, particularly if original Epon 812 is utilized as the base resin. Other resins that are considerably less viscous than Epon 812 now are available as replacements. Likewise, nonenyl succinic anhydride (NSA) and dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE) are more fluid than their counterparts DDSA and DMP- 30 commonly used in earlier formulations. This work utilizes novel epoxy and anhydride combinations in order to produce embedding media with desirable flow rate and viscosity parameters that, in turn, would allow the medium to optimally infiltrate tissues. Specifically, embeding media based on EmBed 812 or LX 112 with NSA (in place of DDSA) and DMAE (replacing DMP-30), with NMA remaining constant, are formulated and offered as alternatives for routine biological work.Individual epoxy resins (Table I) or complete embedding media (Tables II-III) were tested for flow rate and viscosity. The novel media were further examined for their ability to infilftrate tissues, polymerize, sectioning and staining character, as well as strength and stability to the electron beam and column vacuum. For physical comparisons, a volume (9 ml) of either resin or media was aspirated into a capillary viscocimeter oriented vertically. The material was then allowed to flow out freely under the influence of gravity and the flow time necessary for the volume to exit was recored (Col B,C; Tables). In addition, the volume flow rate (ml flowing/second; Col D, Tables) was measured. Viscosity (n) could then be determined by using the Hagen-Poiseville relation for laminar flow, n = c.p/Q, where c = a geometric constant from an instrument calibration with water, p = mass density, and Q = volume flow rate. Mass weight and density of the materials were determined as well (Col F,G; Tables). Infiltration schedules utilized were short (1/2 hr 1:1, 3 hrs full resin), intermediate (1/2 hr 1:1, 6 hrs full resin) , or long (1/2 hr 1:1, 6 hrs full resin) in total time. Polymerization schedules ranging from 15 hrs (overnight) through 24, 36, or 48 hrs were tested. Sections demonstrating gold interference colors were collected on unsupported 200- 300 mesh grids and stained sequentially with uranyl acetate and lead citrate.


Author(s):  
D. E. Newbury ◽  
R. D. Leapman

Trace constituents, which can be very loosely defined as those present at concentration levels below 1 percent, often exert influence on structure, properties, and performance far greater than what might be estimated from their proportion alone. Defining the role of trace constituents in the microstructure, or indeed even determining their location, makes great demands on the available array of microanalytical tools. These demands become increasingly more challenging as the dimensions of the volume element to be probed become smaller. For example, a cubic volume element of silicon with an edge dimension of 1 micrometer contains approximately 5×1010 atoms. High performance secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) can be used to measure trace constituents to levels of hundreds of parts per billion from such a volume element (e. g., detection of at least 100 atoms to give 10% reproducibility with an overall detection efficiency of 1%, considering ionization, transmission, and counting).


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