What is a Project

Projects are different from operations which are ongoing and repetitive. A project is temporary endeavor undertaken to create a unique product or service. Temporary means that every project has a definite beginning and a definite end. The end is reached when the project’s objectives will not or cannot be met, or the need for the project no longer exists and the project is terminated. Temporary does not necessarily mean short in duration. Many projects last for several years. In every case , however , the duration of a project is finite. Projects are not ongoing efforts.

Examples of projects include

• Developing a new product or service
• Implementing a new business procedures or processes
• Effecting a change in structure, staffing or style of an organization
• Running a campaign for political office
• Designing a new transportation vehicle
• Building a water system for a community in developing country
• Developing or acquiring a new or modified information system
• Constructing a building or facility