Maryland International College

School of Graduate Studies

COURSE: PROJECT MANAGNMENT
INDIUAL ASSIGNMENT

NAME ID NO
Amare Genetu…………………………………..MBA/007/2016

Submitted to: Dr. Tarekegn .

March, 2025
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

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 1) An ideal project can be defined as one that achieves its objectives efficiently,
effectively, and sustainably, while delivering measurable benefits to its stakeholders. It
should be well-planned, executed, and monitored, with clear goals, timelines, and
budgets. Additionally, an ideal project should address a genuine need, involve
stakeholder participation, and have a positive social, economic, or environmental impact.

Key Characteristics of an Ideal Project:

 Clear Objectives: Well-defined goals and outcomes.

 Stakeholder Engagement: Involvement of all relevant stakeholders, including
beneficiaries.
 Feasibility: Realistic planning in terms of resources, time, and scope.
 Sustainability: Long-term benefits and minimal negative impacts.
 Transparency and Accountability: Clear reporting and responsible use of resources.
 Innovation: Incorporation of new ideas or technologies to solve problems.
 Measurable Impact: Ability to track progress and evaluate success

Case Summary: The Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Agency (ATA)

Is a successful example of a government-led project that has significantly impacted Ethiopia's

agricultural sector established in 2010, the ATA was created to address systemic challenges in
agriculture and drive sustainable growth.

Background: Ethiopia's economy is heavily reliant on agriculture, which employs over 70% of
the population. However, the sector faced numerous challenges, including low productivity,
limited access to modern inputs, and inefficient value chains. The ATA was established to
transform the agricultural sector by addressing these issues through strategic planning,
innovation, and collaboration.

Objectives:

Increase agricultural productivity and farmer incomes.

 Improve access to quality inputs, such as seeds and fertilizers.

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  Strengthen value chains and market linkages
 Promote sustainable farming practices.

Key Achievements:
1. Agricultural Growth Program (AGP): The ATA played a central role in implementing
the AGP, which focused on increasing productivity, improving market access, and
enhancing resilience to climate change. The program benefited millions of smallholder
farmers across the country.
2. Seed System Development: The ATA introduced improved seed varieties and
strengthened the seed supply chain, ensuring farmers had access to high-quality seeds. This
led to significant increases in crop yields.

3. Soil Health Mapping: The agency conducted a nationwide soil fertility mapping exercise,
enabling targeted fertilizer recommendations and improving soil health.
4. Market Linkages: The ATA facilitated connections between farmers and markets,
reducing post-harvest losses and increasing farmers' incomes.
5. Capacity Building: The agency trained thousands of farmers, extension workers, and
government officials in modern agricultural practices.

Impact:

 Increased agricultural productivity and food security.

 Higher incomes for smallholder farmers.
 Strengthened agricultural value chains and market access.
 Enhanced resilience to climate change through sustainable practices.

Why It Succeeded:

1. Clear Vision and Leadership: The ATA had a clear mandate and strong leadership,
enabling it to drive change effectively.
2. Stakeholder Collaboration: The agency worked closely with farmers, government
agencies, NGOs, and private sector partners.

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 3. Data-Driven Approach: The use of data and evidence-based decision-making
ensured targeted and effective interventions.
4. Scalability: Successful pilot projects were scaled up to achieve nationwide impact.
5. Sustainability: The ATA focused on building local capacity and systems to ensure
long-term benefits.

Conclusion:

The Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Agency (ATA) exemplifies an ideal project due to its
clear objectives, stakeholder engagement, innovative approaches, and measurable impact. By
addressing systemic challenges in agriculture, the ATA has contributed significantly to Ethiopia's
economic growth and food security, making it a model for similar initiatives in other developing
countries.

2). Provide practical distinction and relationship among project, program and portfolio? (Take
Practical example from your company or any other company you are familiar with)

Understanding the distinction and relationship among project, program,

and portfolio is crucial for effective organizational management. These terms are often used
interchangeably, but they serve different purposes and operate at different levels of an
organization. Below is a practical explanation of each, along with their relationships, using an
example from the Ethiopian Electric Utility (EEU), which is responsible for electricity
distribution in Ethiopia

Project:

Project: A project is a temporary endeavor with a specific goal, defined scope, timeline, and
budget. It is designed to produce a unique product, service, or result.
Key Characteristics:
 Temporary (has a start and end date).
 Focused on delivering specific outputs.
 Managed by a project manager.

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Example: Developing a new mobile app for a bank to allow customers to transfer money
internationally. And the construction of a new substation in Addis Ababa to improve electricity
distribution in the city.

Program:

A program is A group of related projects, sub-programs, and activities managed in a coordinated way to
achieve broader strategic objectives. Programs focus on delivering benefits that individual projects cannot
achieve alone.

Key Characteristics:

 Long-term and ongoing.

 Focused on achieving strategic goals and benefits.
 Managed by a program manager.

Example: A digital transformation program for a bank that includes multiple projects, such as
developing the mobile app, upgrading the core banking system, and training staff on new
technologies

Portfolio:

A portfolio is a collection of projects, programs, and other work grouped together to achieve
strategic business objectives. Portfolios are managed at the organizational level and align with the
organization's overall goals.
Key Characteristics:

 Focused on maximizing value and alignment with organizational strategy.

 Includes both ongoing and planned initiatives.
 Managed by a portfolio manager.

Example: A bank's overall portfolio might include the digital transformation program, a customer
service improvement program, and a risk management project, all aligned with the bank's goal
of becoming a market leader.
Relationships among Project, Program, and Portfolio:
Projects are building blocks of programs: Programs consist of multiple related projects. For
example, the National Electrification Program includes projects like building substations,
installing transformers, and connecting households to the grid.

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Programs contribute to portfolios: Programs are part of a larger portfolio that aligns with the
organization's strategic goals. For instance, the National Electrification Program is one of many
initiatives within the EEU's portfolio.
Portfolios provide strategic direction:
Portfolios ensure that all projects and programs align with the organization's mission and vision.
The EEU's portfolio ensures that all its projects and programs contribute to the goal of universal
electricity access.

Practical Example: Ethiopian Electric Utility (EEU)

 Project:
Objective: Construct a new substation in Addis Ababa.
Scope: Design, procure materials, and build the substation.
Timeline: specific time.
Budget: within specific cost.
Outcome: Improved electricity distribution in Addis Ababa.

 Program:
National Electrification Program (NEP):
Objective: Increase electricity access across Ethiopia.
Components:
Construction of substations (including the Addis Ababa substation project).Expansion of
transmission lines to rural areas.
Installation of solar home systems in off-grid areas.
Outcome: Increased national electricity access from 45% to 65% over five years.

 Portfolio:
EEU's Portfolio:
Objective: Ensure reliable electricity supply and achieve universal access.
Components:
National Electrification Program.
Renewable energy projects (e.g., solar and wind farms).
Maintenance and upgrade of existing infrastructure.
Outcome: Alignment with Ethiopia's goal of universal electricity access by 2030.
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Key Differences:
Aspect Project Program Portfolio

Specific, well- Broader, multiple related Organizational, all

Scope
defined projects projects/programs

Temporary (fixed Longer-term (until Ongoing (aligned with

Duration
timeline) objectives met) strategy)

Deliver a unique Deliver collective

Focus Strategic alignment and value
output benefits

Management
Project Manager Program Manager Portfolio Manager
Level

 In summary, projects are the building blocks of programs, and programs are
components of a portfolio. Each serves a distinct purpose but is interconnected in
achieving organizational goals. The Ethiopian Electric Utility (EEU) provides a practical
example of how these concepts work together to achieve strategic objectives, such as
universal electricity access.

3) Assume that of a project in an Ethiopian company to demonstrate the steps involved

in project id and for this case, we’ll assume the company is a startup focused on producing
solar-powered irrigation systems for smallholder farmers in Ethiopia.
Project Identification
1. Problem Identification
Context: Smallholder farmers in the Oromia region face challenges due to unreliable rainfall and lack
of access to affordable irrigation systems.

Current Solution: Farmers rely on expensive diesel-powered pumps, which are unsustainable and
environmentally harmful.

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Opportunity: Ethio AgroTech identifies a need for solar-powered irrigation systems, which are
cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and suitable for Ethiopia’s high solar energy potential

2. Stakeholder Consultation:
Farmers: Engaged through surveys and focus groups to understand their needs and challenges.
Local Agricultural Offices: Consulted to align the project with regional agricultural development
plans.

NGOs: Partnered with organizations working on rural development to leverage their expertise and
networks.

3. Alignment with Organizational Goals

The project aligns with Ethio AgroTech’s mission to empower smallholder farmers through innovative
and sustainable agricultural technologies.

4. Preliminary Market Research

Conducted initial research to assess:
Market size and potential demand.
Competitor analysis (identified two competitors but differentiated through affordability and after-sales
support).
Pricing sensitivity and willingness to pay among farmers.

Feasibility Study:
Once the project was identified, Ethio AgroTech conducted a comprehensive feasibility study to evaluate
its viability. The steps included:

1. Technical Feasibility

Assessment: Evaluated the technical capacity to design, manufacture, and distribute solar-powered
irrigation systems.

Findings:
Partnered with a local engineering firm for system design.
Sourced solar panels from international suppliers.

Conclusion: The project is technically feasible.

2. Economic Feasibility

Cost Estimation:
Manufacturing cost, Distribution cost and Marketing cost estimation

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Revenue Projections:
Profitability Analysis:
Break-even within the first year. Conclusion: - The project is economically viable.

3. Financial Feasibility

Cash Flow Analysis:

Prepared cash flow projections to ensure financial obligations can be met.

Conclusion: The project is financially feasible.

4. Market Feasibility

Demand Analysis: Surveys and focus groups confirmed strong demand among smallholder farmers.
Competitor Analysis: Differentiated through affordability and after-sales support.
Marketing Strategy:
Use of farmer cooperatives, local radio, and social media for promotion.

Conclusion: The market is favorable for the project.

5. Operational Feasibility

Resource Availability: Assessed availability of skilled labor, raw materials, and distribution channels.
Timeline: 12 months from R&D to product launch.
Conclusion: The project is operationally feasible.
6. Legal and Regulatory Feasibility

Compliance: Ensured compliance with Ethiopian regulations on renewable energy and agricultural
equipment.

Permits: Obtained necessary permits from the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ethiopian Energy
Authority.

Conclusion: The project meets all legal and regulatory requirements.

7. Environmental and Social Feasibility

Environmental Impact: Solar-powered systems reduce carbon emissions compared to diesel pumps.
Social Impact: Empowers smallholder farmers, particularly women, by increasing agricultural
productivity and income.

Conclusion: The project is environmentally and socially beneficial.

Feasibility Study Report
Ethio AgroTech compiled the findings into a feasibility study report, which included:

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Executive Summary
Project Description
Technical, Economic, Financial, Market, Operational, Legal, and Environmental Analyses
Risk Assessment and Mitigation Strategies
Recommendations
The report concluded that the Solar-Powered Irrigation System for Smallholder Farmers in the
Oromia Region is feasible and recommended proceeding with the project.

Project Planning:
Develop a detailed project plan, including timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.

Implementation:
Begin R&D, manufacturing, and distribution.

Monitoring and Evaluation:

Track progress and make adjustments as needed.

4) In project management, techniques like Critical Path Method (CPM) and Project Evaluation
and Review Technique (PERT) are essential for planning, scheduling, and controlling projects.
Let’s explore how these techniques can be applied to the hypothetical project of Ethio AgroTech
PLC, which is developing a Solar-Powered Irrigation System for Smallholder Farmers in the
Oromia Region.-Powered Irrigation System for Smallholder Farmers in the Oromia Region.

1. Critical Path Method (CPM)

What is CPM?
CPM is a step-by-step project management technique used to identify the longest sequence of
dependent tasks (the critical path) and determine the minimum time required to complete the
project. It helps in scheduling tasks and allocating resources efficiently.
Steps to Implement CPM in Ethio AgroTech
Break down the project into smaller tasks. For example:
Task A: Market Research
Task B: R&D for Solar-Powered Irrigation System
Task C: Procurement of Solar Panels
Task D: Manufacturing
Task E: Distribution Setup

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 Task F: Marketing Campaign
Task G: Product Launch
Determine Dependencies:
Identify which tasks depend on others. For example:
Task B (R&D) cannot start until Task A (Market Research) is completed.
Task C (Procurement) depends on Task B (R&D) for specifications.
Task D (Manufacturing) depends on Task C (Procurement).
Estimate Durations:
Assign time estimates to each task (as shown above).
Draw the Network Diagram:
Create a visual representation of tasks and dependencies.
Identify the Critical Path:
Calculate the longest path through the network diagram. For Ethio AgroTech, the critical
path might be:
A → B → C → D → G (Total Duration: 2 + 8 + 4 + 12 + 1 = 27 weeks).
Monitor and Control:
Focus on tasks on the critical path to ensure the project stays on schedule.
Use slack time (float) for non-critical tasks to manage delays.

2. Project Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT)

a. What is PERT?
PERT is a statistical tool used to analyze and represent the tasks involved in completing a
project. It incorporates uncertainty by using three time estimates for each task:
Optimistic Time (To): The minimum possible time required.
Most Likely Time (Tm): The best estimate of time required.
Pessimistic Time (Tp): The maximum possible time required.
The expected time (TE) for each task is calculated using the formula:
TE = (Tp + 4Tm + To) / 6
Steps to Implement PERT in Ethio AgroTech PLC:
Define Tasks and Dependencies:

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 Use the same tasks and dependencies as in CPM.
Estimate Time for Each Task:

For example, for Task B (R&D):

Optimistic Time (To): 6 weeks
Most Likely Time (Tm): 8 weeks
Pessimistic Time (Tp): 12 weeks
Expected Time (TE) = (6 + 4*8 + 12) / 6 = 8.33 weeks.
Calculate Expected Time for All Tasks:
Repeat the calculation for all tasks.
By Draw the PERT Chart (in this case did not draw graph due to time)
Create a network diagram similar to CPM but with expected times.
Identify the Critical Path:
Determine the longest path using expected times. For Ethio AgroTech, the critical path
might still be:
A → B → C → D → G (Total Expected Duration: 2 + 8.33 + 4 + 12 + 1 = 27.33 weeks).
Calculate Variance and Standard Deviation:
Variance (σ²) for each task =[(P - O) / 6]².[(P−O)/6]2.
For Task B: σ² =[(12 - 6) / 6]² = 1.[(12−6)/6]2=1.
Use variance to assess project risk and uncertainty.
b. Monitor and Control:
Use PERT to adjust schedules and resources based on real-time progress and uncertainties.
Implementation in Ethio AgroTech PLC
How CPM and PERT Help Ethio AgroTech:
c. Efficient Scheduling:
CPM helps Ethio AgroTech identify the critical path, ensuring that the project is completed in 27
weeks.
PERT provides a more realistic timeline by accounting for uncertainties, such as delays in R&D
or procurement.

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 d. Resource Allocation:
By focusing on the critical path, Ethio AgroTech can allocate resources (e.g., engineers, funds)
to high-priority tasks.
e. Risk Management:
PERT’s variance calculations help Ethio AgroTech assess risks and develop contingency plans
for delays.
f. Progress Tracking:
Both techniques allow Ethio AgroTech to monitor progress and make adjustments as needed. For
example, if Task B (R&D) takes longer than expected, the company can reallocate resources to
stay on track.
g. Communication:
The visual nature of CPM and PERT charts helps Ethio AgroTech communicate project
timelines and progress to stakeholders, such as investors and farmers.
Example of CPM and PERT in Action
Task Delays: If Task C (Procurement) is delayed by 2 weeks due to supplier issues:
CPM: The project duration increases to 29 weeks.
PERT: The expected time for Task C is recalculated, and the critical path is adjusted
accordingly.
h. Risk Mitigation: Ethio AgroTech can use PERT’s variance analysis to identify high-risk
tasks (e.g., R&D) and allocate additional resources to mitigate delays.
Conclusion
By using CPM and PERT, Ethio AgroTech PLC can effectively plan, schedule, and manage the
implementation of its solar-powered irrigation system project. These techniques ensure that the
project is completed on time, within budget, and with minimal risks, ultimately contributing to
the company’s mission of empowering smallholder farmers in Ethiopia.

5) Let’s take Ethio Telecom, a leading Ethiopian telecommunications company, as an

example. Suppose Ethio Telecom is implementing a project to expand its 5G network
infrastructure across major cities in Ethiopia. The success of this project depends on several
factors, and there are potential problems that could arise during implementation.

Factors Affecting the Success of Project Implementation

1. Project Planning and Feasibility:

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A well-defined project plan, including timelines, budgets, and resource allocation, is critical.
Ethio Telecom must conduct a feasibility study to ensure the project is viable and aligns with the
company’s strategic goals.
Example: Proper planning ensures that the 5G expansion is phased correctly, starting with high-
demand areas like Addis Ababa.
2. Stakeholder Engagement:
Engaging stakeholders, including government regulators, customers, and internal teams, is
crucial.
Ethio Telecom must ensure regulatory approvals and public acceptance of the new technology.
Example: Collaborating with the Ethiopian Communications Authority to secure spectrum
licenses.
3. Financial Resources:
Adequate funding is essential for purchasing equipment, hiring skilled personnel, and covering
operational costs. Ethio Telecom must secure financing, either through internal funds or external
loans.
Example: Partnering with international investors or securing loans from development banks.
4. Skilled Workforce:
The availability of skilled engineers, technicians, and project managers is critical. Ethio Telecom
may need to train existing staff or hire experts in 5G technology.
Example: Partnering with global telecom companies like Huawei or Ericsson for technical
expertise.
5. Technology and Infrastructure:
Access to advanced technology and reliable infrastructure is key. Ethio Telecom must ensure the
availability of 5G equipment and compatible devices for customers.
Example: Importing 5G equipment and ensuring compatibility with existing networks.
6. Risk Management:
Identifying and mitigating risks, such as delays in equipment delivery or regulatory hurdles, is
essential. Ethio Telecom should have contingency plans in place.
Example: Delays in importing equipment due to foreign exchange shortages.
7. Government Support:
Government policies and support can make or break the project. Ethio Telecom needs favorable
policies, such as tax incentives and streamlined import processes for telecom equipment.

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Example: The Ethiopian government’s commitment to digital transformation under the “Digital
Ethiopia 2025” strategy.
8. Community and Customer Acceptance:
Public acceptance of 5G technology is crucial. Ethio Telecom must educate customers about the
benefits of 5G and address concerns about health or privacy.
Example: Launching awareness campaigns to explain the advantages of 5G.
Problems in Project Implementation
9. Financial Constraints:
Limited access to foreign currency for importing equipment or paying international vendors can
delay the project.
Example: Ethiopia’s foreign exchange shortages could slow down the procurement of 5G
equipment.
10. Regulatory Challenges:
Delays in obtaining necessary permits or spectrum licenses from regulatory bodies can hinder
progress.
Example: Bureaucratic delays in spectrum allocation.
11. Infrastructure Limitations:
Poor existing infrastructure, such as unreliable power supply or inadequate fiber optic networks,
can complicate 5G deployment.
Example: Frequent power outages in rural areas could disrupt network operations.
12. Skilled Labor Shortage:
A lack of local expertise in 5G technology may force Ethio Telecom to rely on expensive foreign
consultants.
Example: Difficulty in finding qualified engineers to install and maintain 5G equipment.

13. Political and Economic Instability:

Political unrest or economic instability in Ethiopia could disrupt project timelines and increase
costs.
Example: Civil unrest in certain regions could delay infrastructure deployment.
14. Supply Chain Disruptions:

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Global supply chain issues, such as delays in equipment delivery due to geopolitical tensions or
pandemics, could affect the project.
Example: Delays in receiving 5G equipment from international suppliers.
15. Public Resistance:
Misinformation or lack of awareness about 5G technology could lead to public resistance or
protests.
Example: Concerns about the health impacts of 5G radiation could slow down adoption.
16. Technological Challenges:
Integrating 5G technology with existing 4G networks and ensuring seamless connectivity could
be technically challenging.
Example: Network interoperability issues between old and new systems.

Conclusion:
For Ethio Telecom’s 5G expansion project to succeed, the company must address these factors
and proactively mitigate potential problems. Strong project management, stakeholder
collaboration, and government support will be critical. By overcoming challenges such as
financial constraints, regulatory hurdles, and public resistance, EthioTelecom can successfully
implement the project and position itself as a leader in Ethiopia’s digital transformation.

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