2.1 Planning and Project Management I

Basic idea of the module

Project Management in Spatial Planning

The basic pre-requisite for the successful planning and management of projects is the capacity to think in a holistic and structured manner. Planning and project control require an understanding and an ability to apply appropriately and develop the necessary methods and instruments. In doing this teamwork and working with a team plays a central role. During the course it is intended that the required skills will be conveyed, reflected upon and used in practical exercises. In addition the special aspects of spatial planning projects will be taught.

Work Methodology

Modern techniques of project control are an aid in contributing to increased efficiency in working as an individual or in teamwork. Aspects such as self-evaluation, the place of an individual in a work team, and strategies for the solution of conflicts during a project will be demonstrated. Students will learn how to solve problems arising during a project, how best to make decisions and how to use team-oriented work methods to enhance creativity.

Process and Quality Management

The introduction, application and continued development of a quality management system is the most consequential way of establishing management competency in both the project and the team, as well as improving communications both internally and externally. The general aim, however, is not only the avoidance of mistakes via an improved system of organisation, but also, primarily, better inter-action between the client and the planner and thus ultimately an economic and successful execution of the process within the office and for the good of the project.

Project Control and Project Organisation

A basic element of successful project work is the stable, but nevertheless, flexible agreement on project planning and structuring of work packages. A binding consensus on project’s organisation is a further success factor. In the last analysis a constructive communication structure will support the positive completion of the project. This part of the course is intended to lay down the fundamentals of project work, for both the management  agreement and the planning.

Learning outcomes

• Capacity for holistic thinking
• Understanding of the basic tasks of project management and project organisation
• Team building competence
• Applying methods of problem solving and decision making
• Knowledge of, and ability to be able to determine, the application of methods and instruments used in the execution of management responsibilities and project control
• Understanding of the requirements of a quality management system
• Capacity to establish an organisational structure for firms and projects
• Capacity to control and assure the quality of projects and processes

Courses:

• 2.1.1 Project Management in Spatial Planning
• 2.1.2 Work Methodology
• 2.1.3 Process and Quality Management
• 2.1.4 Project Control and Project Organisation

Universities organising this module:

• Weihenstephan University of Applied Sciences
• Nürtingen-Geislingen University

Director of Studies:

• Prof. Dr. Alfred Ruther-Mehlis

Participating lecturers:  

• Prof. Dr. Albrecht Müller
• Prof. Ingrid Schegk
• Prof. Dr. Matthias Urmersbach

ECTS    6

Level    Master of Engineering (M.Eng.)

Academic term Phase 2, Trimester 1 and 2

How the module can be used: Theoretical foundation for work on project modules, control and organisational components in project execution during project study with emphasis on quality control

Languages German and English