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How to manage risk and uncertainty in projects : a comparative multiple-case study

M.Ing. (Engineering Management) / Risk and uncertainty are very closely linked; they are recognized as threats arising from unclear causes and effects of the project. Risk and uncertainty management has always been acknowledged as a very important aspect of project management and is mostly used to accomplish project objectives. These objectives are; quality, cost, time, safety and environmental sustainability. A majority of researchers have focused on other characteristics of risks and uncertainty management rather than a comprehensive method which encompasses developing risk management plan, identify, and analyze the likelihood of its occurrence and consequence should it happen. The common challenges still experienced in project environment are; use of improper project management methodology, stake holder interference in the decision making process, complexity of the project, and changing requirements and management. This study seeks to look at how risk and uncertainty can be successfully managed within project environment. Through case studies this research will also look at how does improper risk management plan affect the project, and the consequences of stakeholder interference in the decision making process. The report presents project risk management approach of two projects carried out in the same organisation. The project A was executed by a project manager from the Project Management Office (PMO) in accordance with the project management methodology, while the execution of project B was highly influenced by a client/sponsor with no regard of the approved project management methodology. The selected projects both involved equipment replacement in which the main deliverables are supply and delivery of the final product. A description of the project risk management approach and analysis of data collected for each case study are followed by a comparison of two project risk management processes applied in case studies. This study will finally draw the conclusion and make recommendations based on its findings.

Identiferoai:union.ndltd.org:netd.ac.za/oai:union.ndltd.org:uj/uj:4478
Date25 March 2014
CreatorsDubazane, Mandiseni Mbuso
Source SetsSouth African National ETD Portal
Detected LanguageEnglish
TypeThesis
RightsUniversity of Johannesburg

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