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LO1 Explain the key stages of the project lifecycle that should be considered when project managing.
Assignment Briefs
Unit 6: Managing a Successful Business Project
Unit Number and Title
Unit 6: Managing a Successful Business Project
Academic Term
Module Leader
Unit Tutor
Student Support
Issue Date
Formative Feedback Dates
Submission Date
Assignment Topic
The impact of AI on a functional area (HR / Marketing / Finance / Customer services) within an organisation
Submission Format
Written Report, Logbook, Performance Review (Self-Reflection)
The submission format:
The submission is in the form of an individual written report. The report should be written in a concise, formal business style using 1.5 line spacing and Times New Roman font size 12. You are required to make use of headings, paragraphs, and subsections as appropriate, and all work must be supported with research and referenced using the Harvard referencing system. Please ensure that similarity and AI generated information does not exceed 20% threshold. The recommended word limit for the individual report is 4000–5000 words.
You must complete the Project Logbook in Appendix 1 as a compulsory activity in this module and it should be signed off by your tutor each week . The log should summarise your activities done each week on the project. The information in the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) , Gantt chart and the Logbook should correspond for each task and timeline.
Please provide Nelson College’s Cover page with your report.
Effective written communication.
The ability to carry out both primary and secondary research
Report writing
Applying the Project Lifecycle
Strategies for gathering information and data collection
Writing evaluations
Pearson-set theme
Impact of Artificial Intelligence
Assignment Topic
The impact of AI on a functional area (HR / Marketing / Finance / Customer services) within an organisation
Vocational Scenario 1
LO1 Explain the key stages of the project lifecycle that should be considered when project managing
Word Limit : (1000-1500 words)
Transferable Skills
Thinking skills
Clear and persuasive written communication skills, essential for conveying arguments and analyses effectively.
Problem-solving and analytical abilities as they navigate complex scenarios and apply relevant principles to address business projects.
Attention to detail, a crucial skill for drafting precise documents and ensuring compliance with intricate requirements.
Vocational Scenario 1
Assignment Activity and Guidance:
Banks have been leading the way for transition to artificial intelligent platforms to streamline banking processes and improve efficiency. HSBC is planning to harness AI to generate personalized notes to help customers in its retail sector with investing and financial planning. This requires proper planning and implementation.
As a member of the project team, you are required to report on the project. The first phase of this involves a written initial report that covers the following areas:
An (1) explanation and evaluation of the five stages of the project lifecycle (PLC), and explanation of how each one of these stages can contribute to completion of the project successfully.
An (2) examination and evaluation of all the factors to be considered when creating a project management plan (PMP).
You have been tasked additionally with (3) examining four different research methods and strategies and state their importance to project management in your report.
Additionally, you may evaluate a range of research methods and strategies for gathering information and data collection in preparation for your upcoming project
Furthermore, your report may include a critical evaluation on the project management process, project management plan and research methods for gathering information and data collection for your upcoming project.
LO2 Produce a Project Management Plan (PMP) for a business project using primary and secondary research methods
Word Limit: (1500-2000)
Transferable skills
Critical thinking skills, enabling students to analyse issues with precision and depth.
Clear and persuasive written and oral communication skills, essential for conveying arguments and analyses effectively.
Problem-solving and analytical abilities as they navigate complex scenarios and apply relevant principles to address business-related issues.
Attention to detail, a crucial skill for drafting precise documents and ensuring compliance with intricate requirements.
Vocational Scenario 2
As Project Team Lead, you must now explore the impact that AI can have in the retail or any other functional area within your chosen organization. You are required to develop a Project Management Plan (PMP) for this business project using both primary and secondary research methods. In this context, you will carry out primary research by conducting discussions with key stakeholders, such as client representatives, to collect their expectations, objectives, and detailed requirements for the project. You may also facilitate focus groups to grasp the target audience`s preferences and perspectives regarding AI impact. At the same time, you will utilize additional research methods to examine industry trends, competitor strategies, and relevant market data. This will provide a comprehensive understanding of the project’s scope, enabling you to position the client effectively and identify potential challenges and opportunities.
Assignment activity and guidance You are required to prepare a well-structured Project Management Plan with your team. This plan should detail the project`s scope, objectives, deliverables, timelines, budget, and risk management strategies. You are encouraged to carry out some secondary research to obtain necessary information to ensure that the project is aligned with the company vision and takes into account broader business dynamics, leading to a successful project outcome.
Present your Project Management Plan (PMP)in outlineto the Directors in a written report. Your report must
Provide background to the Project supported by relevant literature (4)
Clearly develop: (4)
Aims and objectives of the project
Deliverables
Quality
Risk
Communication,
Resources and
Research methods
Also, include for this project (5)
A work breakdown structure (WBS)
and Gantt chart showing scheduling and time frames for the project
Your report may include a detailed PMP and justifications of your choices made in the design of the PMP for successfully achieving the aim and objectives of the chosen project for your organisation.
LO3 Implement the Project Management Plan (PMP) to communicate results from the research and make conclusions from the evidence of findings
Word Limit: (500-1000)
Transferable skills
The ability to analyse and interpret facts
The ability to determine the cause of a problem and identify and select appropriate solutions
Tools and techniques for data Analysis, and Interpretation of data
Synthesise from different sources and experiences
The ability to support, manage and communicate change by identifying barriers and overcoming them
Communication with various Stakeholders
Vocational Scenario 3:
You have presented your plan to the top management, and they are satisfied with the plan. They have given you the go-ahead to start working on the project.
You are required to execute the PMP and conduct the project to obtain findings from primary and secondary research. You guide your team in communicating research outcomes to stakeholders, delivering conclusions based on evidence, and showcasing how this project tackles customer needs and challenges identified during the research phase.
Assignment Activity and Guidance :
You are required to write a report which details the following work carried out:
The detailed report must be accompanied by a letter addressed to the CEO and all stakeholders, which communicates in summary the findings of the project carried out
(6) Develop a questionnaire with 10 questions based on your aim and objectives.(6) Collect primary data from a selected sample of 10 to 20 participants using well designed questions / questionnaire, and summarise the data collected in a table.(6) Secondary data may be collected as well from a range of sources (books, journals, articles, relevant websites, etc) to support the primary research.(7) Analyse data using tables, charts, graphs or any other statistical tools.(7) Draw conclusionsProvide at least two (4) detailed justified recommendations for the project.
Justify your conclusion and recommendations drawn from the data analysis and findings to meet the stated project objectives of this project.
LO4 Reflect on value gained from implementing the project and the project management process.
Word Limit: 1000-1500
Transferable skills:
Effective written communication.
The ability to leaning and reflective theories
Using research for evidence-based decision making.
Digital literacy
Reflective learning and writing using reflective practices and tools
Assignment Activity and Guidance :
The project is now ended, and as Deputy Project Officer, you have to complete a Performance Review on the project
You are required to:
Using relevant theory, (8) write a reflection on the importance of undertaking the business project to meet the stated objectives using the performance review template of questions to be answered in Appendix 2 . This reflection should:
Restate your objectives
Explain the extent to which the objectives have been achieved
Explain what difficulties you faced when conducting the project and how you overcame these challenges.
Explain the importance of project management in the success of the project
You may also evaluate the project management process to meet stated objectives and support your own learning and performance and, critically reflect on the findings from your research and the project management process, in supporting stated objectives and your own learning.
Note that as part of your project management, all sections of the logbook must be completed and signed off.
Learning Outcomes and Assessment Criteria
Pass
Merit
Distinction
LO1 Explain the key stages of the project lifecycle that should be considered when project managing
LO1
D1: Critically evaluate the project-management process, PMP and research methods for gathering information and data collection.
LO2
D2 Justify the choices made in the design of the PMP for completing the aims and objectives of the project.
P1: Explain the stages of the project lifecycle (PLC) and their importance to the success of a project.
P2: Examine the factors to be considered when compiling a project management plan (PMP).
P3: Examine a range of research methods and strategies and their importance to project management.
M1 : Evaluate the stages of the PLC and the factors, (deliverables, quality, risk, communication and resources) to be considered in a PMP.
M2 : Evaluate a range of research methods and strategies for gathering information and data collection.
LO2 Produce a Project Management Plan (PMP) for a business project using primary and secondary research methods
P4 : Produce a PMP that covers, aim, objectives, deliverables, quality, risk, communication resources and research methods.
P5 : Produce a work breakdown structure and a schedule to provide timeframes and stages for completion.
M3: Produce a detailed PMP, and schedule for monitoring and completing the aims and objectives of the project.
Pass
Merit
Distinction
LO3 Implement the Project Management Plan (PMP) to communicate results from the research and make conclusions from the evidence of findings.
LO3 and LO4
D3: Critically reflect on the findings from the research and the project management process in supporting stated objectives and own learning.
P6: Conduct a business project as stated within the PMP and communicate findings.
P7: Present data to draw valid and meaningful conclusions and recommendations from data analysis.
M4: Justify conclusions and recommendations drawn from data analysis and findings to meet the stated project objectives.
LO4 Reflect on value gained from implementing the project and the project management process.
P8: Reflect on the value of undertaking the business project to meet stated objectives and own learning and performance.
M5 : Evaluate the project management process to meet stated objectives and support own learning and performance.
Appendix 1: Project Logbook Template
Week 2
Week4
Week 6
Week 8
Week 10
Update on weekly research/tasks
What have you completed?
Aim, Objectives,WBS
Did you fulfil task requirements?
Yes or no
Are you on track and within deadlines set?
Yes or no
Any risks and/or issues identified?
Did you identify risks/issues with a lack of skills required for undertaking research/tasks?
Yes, developing the aim was difficult
Problems encountered?
What barriers did you face?
Skills in Aim development
How did you overcome them?
I borrowed a PM book from the library recommended by the lecturer which improved by knowledge in desired topic.
What have I learnt about myself?
Did I find it useful to complete the tasks?
Yes
How well have I performed?
Average
What did I contribute?
Time and effort
What can I improve on next week?
Time management
How might this learning apply in the future?
It can help me in forming better goals for career development
Tasks planned for next week?
Gantt Chart, questions development
Project status to date: (Circle One)
On, Ahead, or Behind
On, Ahead or Behind
On, Ahead, or Behind
On, Ahead, or Behind
On, Ahead, or Behind
Comments and signature of the Tutor
Appendix 2
Performance Review (500 words max in a paragraph)
What was the project supposed to accomplish?
Did the project succeed in its aims? How do you know? Specifically, please outline any evaluation and assessment undertaken.
What things do you think worked well and why? Evaluate all aspects of the project (e.g. initial inception, project activities and project outcomes) from a range of perspectives.
What problems emerged during the project and how were they tackled? Was there timely identification of issues and resolution during the project process?
What did you learn from undertaking the project?
How would you rate your performance as Project Manager?
What strengths and weaknesses of your performance did you identify?
How will this inform and support your continuous professional development?
Recommended Resources Textbooks
Dinsmore, P. And Cabanis-Brewin, J. (2018). The Ama Handbook of Project Management. 5th Ed. Amacon .
Flick, U. (2020) Introducing Research Methodology: A Beginner’s Guide to Doing A Research Project. 3rd Ed. London: Sage.
Gray, D. (2017) Doing Research in The Real World . 4th Ed. London: Sage.
Maylor, H. (2021) Project Management . 5th Ed. Harlow: Pearson.
Saunders, M., Lewis, P. And Thornhill, A. (2019) Research Methods for Business Students . 8th Ed. Harlow: Pearson.
Websites
Website links and additional resource details are available in the unit handbook on the VLE
Sample Answer of Unit 6
LO1 Explanation and Evaluation of the Five Stages of the Project Life Cycle (PLC)
Introduction
Initiation
This is the initial stage in which the value and feasibility of the project are determined. In the case of Coca-Cola, the project will introduce AI tools that will personalise customer experience by using intelligent marketing, sales forecasting, and automating customer service. This stage involves a feasibility study, identification of stakeholders and cost-benefit analysis (Knežević, 2021). A project charter is prepared to formalise objectives, scope, and budget. The identification of business needs and alignment of stakeholders will help the AI project at Coca-Cola to start with a purpose and measurable objectives.
Planning
This stage involves the creation of the Project Management Plan (PMP). It entails scope definition, scheduling, resource allocation, risk management, quality standards and communication plans. The plan of Coca-Cola would include the selection of AI platforms, integration with the current CRM systems, training of the staff, and data privacy (Rein, 2025). A properly documented PMP prevents scope creep, regulatory compliance (particularly GDPR), and aligns schedules with corporate objectives.
Execution
In this case, work is carried out according to the PMP. In the case of Coca-Cola, it would involve installing AI systems, testing them in a few markets, and educating workers on how to handle and communicate with these technologies. It is essential to have cross-functional collaboration, which includes IT, marketing, HR, and legal departments (Irfan et al., 2021). Proper delegation of tasks and use of resources will make the project progress without any bottlenecks and will promote teamwork.
Monitoring and Controlling
This continuous stage coincides with execution. It is concerned with monitoring the progress against project baselines with KPIs like delivery times, cost variance, system uptime, and customer satisfaction. Issue resolution is facilitated by regular status meetings and software (e.g., Jira or MS Project). The adjustments made in time according to the performance indicators avoid delays, risks, and enhance decision-making during the AI implementation (Knežević, 2021).
Closure
The project is closed after the objectives are achieved. Deliverables are delivered to operational teams, final reports are made, and stakeholder approvals are received. Coca-Cola would also conduct a post-project evaluation to determine the results, including ROI, system reliability, and enhancements in customer engagement (Churacharit and Chutima, 2022). Closure is done properly, which makes it sustainable, enables organisational learning, and facilitates the transfer of knowledge to future AI-driven projects.
Conclusion
Consideration of the Factors in the Development of a Project Management Plan (PMP)
Introduction
Scope
It is important to define what the project will deliver and what it will not. In the case of Coca-Cola, it can be AI chatbots, recommendation engines, and customer feedback sentiment analysis. Clarity in scope minimises miscommunication and wastage of resources (Rick, 2025). However, over-defining the scope can limit flexibility in response to new opportunities.
Time
This aspect entails the timeline of project stages and deliverables. Gantt charts or Agile sprints are used to manage timelines by project managers. Delays in AI model training or integration can affect campaign schedules or product launches (Daniel, 2024).
Cost
The PMP must provide an estimate of software licenses, consultants, training, and infrastructure. Unforeseen risks are significant to have budget buffers. Cost control keeps the project within financial boundaries (Daniel, 2024). Cost control helps maintain quality within financial limits, but underestimation may cause overruns or force compromises.
Quality
Coca-Cola needs to establish what quality criteria the AI tools should achieve, e.g., accuracy of customer segmentation or chatbot response time. High standards improve customer trust, but chasing perfection may delay project timelines or inflate cost
Risk
Risk management is the process of identifying, analysing, and planning the threats that may occur in the project, e.g., data breaches, algorithm bias, or staff resistance (Churacharit and Chutima, 2022). Regular risk reviews enhance preparedness, though some risks (e.g., emerging tech issues) require adaptive planning.
Resources
This refers to human resources, technology, and materials. Coca-Cola might require AI engineers, IT infrastructure, and data analytics tools. Resource misalignment (e.g., skills gap) may delay execution. Effective resourcing boosts productivity and reduces friction.
Communication
An effective communication strategy will keep the stakeholders informed. Slack channels, dashboards, or town halls can be used by Coca-Cola. Without structured communication, projects suffer from misalignment and confusion.
Procurement
Software or consultancy services may require vendors. Transparent procurement policies are essential. Strategic vendor selection is cost-effective and quality (Rick, 2025). Nevertheless, ineffective procurement may slow down the delivery or add low-quality parts.
Conclusion
Transition to Research Methods
Building on the PMP framework, the next section explores the research methods that guided the development of Coca-Cola’s AI personalisation strategy.
Analysis and Critique of Four Research Methods and Strategies
Introduction
Qualitative Research
This approach investigates the views, incentives, and expectations of customers. The methods are focus groups and interviews. It reveals profound insights into how consumers feel about AI personalisation, informing UX design and the tone of voice of chatbots. Context-rich but not statistically generalizable. Outcomes are more difficult to scale.
Quantitative Research
This involves surveys and statistical analysis to interpret patterns. Coca-Cola could carry out online surveys regarding online preferences (Nowicki et al., 2021). It allows quantitative comparisons (e.g. preferred communication channels). Effective with large samples, but can miss emotional and contextual information.
Secondary Research
This is also known as desk research, and it entails the study of available data, including market reports, academic research or competitor research. Time and cost saving. Coca-Cola can use PepsiCo or Nestle AI programs as benchmarks. It can be obsolete or not specific to the market segment of Coca-Cola (Rein, 2025).
Case Studies
A case study is an extensive examination of a particular example. Coca-Cola could look at the successful implementation of AI by Starbucks or Amazon. It also provides practical background and experience. It may not be directly applicable because of the industry dynamics or organisational structures.
Analysis of Research Methods and Data Collection Strategies
Effective data collection supports reliable research outcome. Coca-Cola should also select the appropriate data collection strategies to drive its AI project.
Questionnaires and Surveys
Consumer habits can be gathered using digital tools such as SurveyMonkey. The advantage is that it is quick, inexpensive, and scalable. Enables quantitative analysis. The weaknesses can be affected by low response rates or biased responses (Beck, 2024).
Observation
Observing customer behaviour in the retail stores or on the mobile app can identify the behaviours that are not captured in the surveys. The strength is real-time, natural behaviour. It can be subjective, restricted to observable behaviours.
LO2 Critical Analysis of Project Management Process, PMP and Research Methods
Project Management Process
The five-stage PLC model provides Coca-Cola with a rational framework. Nevertheless, it may be inflexible in the case of rapidly developing technology such as AI (Beck, 2024). Agile methods with iterative sprints and continuous user feedback allow Coca-Cola to test prototypes in real-time and adapt features based on market responsiveness. For example, developing AI recommendation systems for customer segmentation requires frequent testing, feedback, and revision. Thus, a hybrid model combining PLC and Agile Scrum is justified. The strength is that it provides a detailed roadmap for managing scope, resources, and stakeholder engagement (Beck, 2024). While limitation is inflexibility to rapid change, unless adapted with hybrid models.
Project Management Plan (PMP)
A PMP guarantees interdepartmental alignment and responsibility. The AI project of Coca-Cola needs flexible risk management and quality control due to the reputational risks of data mismanagement (Churacharit and Chutima, 2022). The strengths are that it promotes vision and resource planning. While limitations are time-consuming to prepare, they might require frequent revisions. The PMP facilitates risk identification, stakeholder engagement, quality control, and scheduling, ensuring that each phase is backed by measurable targets.
Research Methods
Primary research was conducted across three key streams: interviews with internal stakeholders (marketing, IT, and retail leads), focus groups in geographically diverse markets (North America, Europe, Asia), and in-app consumer surveys. This triangulation approach helped identify recurring themes such as the demand for personalisation, concern over data privacy, and preference for mobile engagement. Importantly, these findings directly informed the platform’s user experience features (opt-in/out options, transparency statements) and its marketing integration (timing and nature of notifications).
However, this approach is not without limitations. Primary research, especially at scale, is resource-intensive, requiring skilled facilitation, ethical oversight, and extensive data analysis. Additionally, managing participant diversity and ensuring cultural relevance in AI responses posed operational challenges. There is also a risk of self-reporting bias in surveys, which may not always reflect actual behaviour (Wein, 2023).
Project Background
In line with the Pearson-set theme, this project critically explores the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing Coca-Cola`s marketing and customer engagement functions. In an era of digital transformation, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming an integral part of strategic operations across all business sectors (Knežević, 2021).
In a recent study conducted by McKinsey (2023), it can be observed that AI-based personalisation could increase revenue by 5-15 per cent because of enhanced targeting and customer experience. Coca-Cola has already tested AI in its Freestyle vending machines and social listening approaches. Nevertheless, the necessity to develop a complete AI-driven retail personalisation platform to enhance customer loyalty, market share, and marketing ROI is increasing. Hence, this project will focus on developing and deploying an AI solution that leverages customer data to personalise product offerings, promotional campaigns, and digital experiences at Coca-Cola retail touchpoints.
Aim
To develop and deploy an AI-based customer personalisation solution within Coca-Cola’s marketing and customer engagement function, enhancing customer experience, retention, and retail sales performance.
Objectives
To collect stakeholder needs and consumer expectations of AI applications in personalisation.
To compare competitor strategies and market trends.
To create and test an AI-driven platform that would be connected to the retail and digital ecosystem of Coca-Cola.
To track and assess the system in terms of its effect on customer satisfaction, purchase behaviour, and engagement levels.
Research Methods
Primary Research Methods
To support development, I personally collected data directly from key stakeholders and consumers using my own resources, enabling Coca-Cola to tailor the platform based on needs and concerns.
Stakeholder Interviews : I conducted in-depth interviews with marketing directors, data managers, and retail leads to identify performance gaps and expectations regarding AI personalisation.Focus Groups: I organised and facilitated sessions with customers in North America, Europe, and Asia to explore preferences in AI-led interactions, data sharing concerns, and promotional appeal.Surveys : I designed and distributed a mobile-based survey through Coca-Cola’s loyalty app to assess customer willingness to adopt AI-driven
This research directly contributed to the platform’s features, privacy settings, and value propositions, as well as informed the questionnaire structure (Churacharit and Chutima, 2022).
Secondary Research Methods
Industry Reports : Gartner, Accenture, and Deloitte reports were reviewed to understand trends in AI retail deployment.Competitor Benchmarking : PepsiCo’s digital loyalty programmes and Amazon’s personalisation algorithms were analysed.Academic Sources : Journals on AI adoption, consumer behaviour, and digital trust were explored to validate key design choices and evaluate customer expectations.
The strengths are that it enables triangulation, data depth, and insight across geographic and functional dimensions (Wein, 2023). While limitations involve that primary research is resource-intensive and requires cross-functional expertise in data collection, ethics, and AI technology.
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