Project Deliverable 2: Business Requirements

Project Deliverable 2 Business RequirementsThis assignment consists of two (2) sections: a business requirements document and a project plan

This assignment involves creating two separate deliverables: a business requirements document and a project plan. You must submit each as an individual file, clearly labeled according to its content. The task requires documenting the existing IT network and systems, and identifying necessary changes critical to the organization's success as it prepares to become a multinational entity. Effective procurement and documentation of business requirements are essential for designing quality information systems that align with user needs and organizational goals.

Using the provided requirements gathering template, you are to assess the company's needs by considering current and future trends and requirements, making realistic assumptions as needed. The focus is on capturing comprehensive organizational needs to inform system design. Future deliverables will delve into specific requirements, but initial emphasis must be on a thorough business requirements analysis.

Paper For Above instruction

The development of a comprehensive business requirements document (BRD) forms the cornerstone of any successful transition to a multinational organization, particularly in the context of modern information technology (IT) integration. The process involves meticulous analysis of the project scope, associated risks, constraints, and assumptions, as well as detailed planning for system integration, human capital, and resource allocation. This paper elaborates on key components necessary for crafting an effective BRD aligned with organizational strategic objectives and technological needs.

Scope and Control Strategies

Defining the project scope involves detailing the boundaries of the IT upgrades, system integrations, and infrastructural changes required for global expansion. It specifies what functionalities, systems, and processes are included or excluded in the scope. Control measures, such as scope change management procedures, regularly scheduled reviews, and stakeholder engagement, are crucial to prevent scope creep, which can derail project timelines and budgets (PMI, 2017). Implementing clear approval processes for scope modifications ensures project focus remains aligned with organizational goals.

Justification for Scope Control

Controlling scope is justified by the need to maintain project schedule, cost, and quality standards. Unrestricted scope expansion can lead to resource strain, increased costs, and delays in deployment, ultimately affecting organizational readiness for multinational operations (Kerzner, 2013). Utilizing change control boards and comprehensive documentation further enforces discipline and clarity, ensuring all stakeholders understand the project's boundaries and responsibilities.

Risks, Constraints, and Assumptions

Potential risks include technological incompatibilities, data security issues, and resistance to change among staff (Peppard & Ward, 2016). Constraints such as limited budgets, timeframes, and regulatory requirements could impede project progress. Assumptions—like availability of skilled personnel and stable stakeholder support—must be documented, as they underpin planning and risk mitigation strategies. Recognizing these factors upfront guides proactive management throughout project execution.

System Integration and Infrastructure Needs

Effective integration with existing systems requires compatibility with database architecture, data warehousing solutions, cloud services, virtualization platforms, and network security measures. Synchronizing these components ensures seamless operations across international branches. Cloud technology offers scalability and flexibility, enabling global access to shared data, while virtualization optimizes resource utilization (Liu et al., 2018). Network infrastructure must support high-speed, secure communications to facilitate real-time data exchange, vital for operational efficiency and security in a multinational context.

Human Capital and Skill Sets

Achieving project objectives necessitates a skilled workforce, including systems analysts, network engineers, cybersecurity specialists, and project managers. Expertise in cloud architectures, data management, and international compliance is particularly valuable. Training existing staff and recruiting specialized talent will mitigate skill gaps and enhance project success. Continuous professional development aligns human resources with technological and strategic demands (Laudon & Laudon, 2020).

Outsourcing and Offshoring Considerations

Outsourcing certain functions—such as application development, technical support, or cybersecurity—may be necessary to access specialized expertise and reduce costs. Offshoring can provide round-the-clock support and scale operations efficiently, but it requires careful management to ensure quality, security, and cultural alignment (Hätönen & Eriksson, 2014). Clear contractual agreements and governance frameworks are essential to manage outsourced activities effectively.

Relevant Terminology

  • Business Requirements Document (BRD): A formal document outlining the organizational and technical needs for the project.
  • Scope Creep: Uncontrolled changes or continuous growth in a project's scope.
  • Data Warehousing: Centralized repositories that store integrated data from multiple sources for analysis and reporting.
  • Cloud Technology: Internet-based computing that provides scalable resources and services.
  • Virtualization: Creating virtual versions of physical hardware or systems to optimize resource use.
  • Stakeholder: An individual or organization affected by or involved in the project.

Cost Projections

Cost estimates should encompass staffing—including salaries for IT professionals and trainers—IT infrastructure investments, licensing fees, and contingency reserves. Infrastructure costs cover hardware upgrades, cloud service subscriptions, and security systems. Estimating these expenses involves combining vendor quotes, industry benchmarks, and organizational budget constraints to develop a realistic financial plan that aligns with strategic priorities (Olsen et al., 2018).

References

  • Hätönen, J., & Eriksson, T. (2014). 30+ years of research and practice in outsourcing – Exploring the past and anticipating the future. Journal of International Management, 20(2), 117-139.
  • Kerzner, H. (2013). Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling. John Wiley & Sons.
  • Laudon, K. C., & Laudon, J. P. (2020). Management Information Systems: Managing the Digital Firm. Pearson.
  • Liu, X., Xie, J., & Wu, J. (2018). Cloud Computing and Virtualization Technology. Journal of Computer Science Technology, 33(2), 356-365.
  • Olsen, K., Zollo, M., & Singh, J. (2018). Cost Management in IT Projects: Toward Better Cost Control. MIS Quarterly Executive, 17(2), 119-131.
  • Peppard, J., & Ward, J. (2016). The Strategic Management of Information Systems. John Wiley & Sons.
  • Project Management Institute (PMI). (2017). A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide). PMI.

Revised Project Plan

For the second part of the assignment, Microsoft Project will be used to update the initial project plan. This involves adding three to five new tasks, each subdivided into five to ten subtasks. These additions will focus on critical areas such as system testing, stakeholder training, data migration, infrastructure deployment, and post-implementation support. Incorporating these new tasks aligns the project schedule with expanded scope and resource planning, ensuring comprehensive coverage of all development phases and operational readiness.

The updated project plan facilitates better resource allocation, timeline management, and risk mitigation strategies, thereby enhancing the likelihood of project success. Clear documentation and sequencing of tasks support ongoing monitoring and control activities, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and stakeholder expectations.

In conclusion, developing a detailed business requirements document and an updated project plan are vital steps in ensuring successful organizational transformation into a multinational enterprise supported by robust and agile information systems. Effective scope management, comprehensive risk assessment, skilled human resources, and strategic planning form the foundation for deploying sustainable and scalable IT infrastructure aligned with organizational goals.

References

  • Hätönen, J., & Eriksson, T. (2014). 30+ years of research and practice in outsourcing – Exploring the past and anticipating the future. Journal of International Management, 20(2), 117-139.
  • Kerzner, H. (2013). Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling. John Wiley & Sons.
  • Laudon, K. C., & Laudon, J. P. (2020). Management Information Systems: Managing the Digital Firm. Pearson.
  • Liu, X., Xie, J., & Wu, J. (2018). Cloud Computing and Virtualization Technology. Journal of Computer Science Technology, 33(2), 356-365.
  • Olsen, K., Zollo, M., & Singh, J. (2018). Cost Management in IT Projects: Toward Better Cost Control. MIS Quarterly Executive, 17(2), 119-131.
  • Peppard, J., & Ward, J. (2016). The Strategic Management of Information Systems. John Wiley & Sons.
  • Project Management Institute (PMI). (2017). A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide). PMI.

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