- 2076 Chaitra · 5 marks
Project characteristics versus permanent systems
Short answer
A project is temporary with a unique output and a team disbanded after completion, while a permanent system operates continuously with routine work and permanent staff. Projects have high uncertainty and detailed planning, whereas permanent systems use standard procedures.
Discuss, citing project characteristics, how a project can be differentiated from other permanent systems.
A project is a temporary system for a unique result, whereas a permanent system (for example a hospital, a factory in operation, an electricity utility) keeps running to give continuous output.
| Basis | Project | Permanent system |
|---|---|---|
| Life | Temporary, definite start and end | Continuous, no fixed end |
| Objective | Specific, one-time deliverable | Ongoing operation and routine output |
| Work | Unique, non-repetitive | Repetitive, routine |
| Team | Temporary, disbanded at completion | Permanent staff |
| Organisation | Often a matrix or project team | Functional hierarchy |
| Uncertainty | High, new situation each time | Low, established procedure |
| Planning | Detailed plan for each project | Standard procedures and policies |
| Control | Time, cost and quality against the plan | Efficiency and output standards |
| Example | Construction of a 50 bed hospital | Daily running of the hospital |
When the project is complete, the product is handed over to the permanent system for operation. A project is therefore recognised by its definite objective, limited time, unique nature, temporary team and constrained resources.
✓ Answer checked by Claude Opus 5.5 (high effort)
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