[SOLVED] Project Management and Digital Technology

This assignment is a self-assessment of a project focused on assessing the impact of digital technology on company growth and innovation. The student reflects on their role as a management consultant leading the project, discussing successes, challenges, and areas for improvement. They outline their approach to data scheduling, new ideas, and change in project direction, highlighting the importance of clear objectives and effective time management.

PROJECT FRONT SHEET
UNIT: 6 – MANAGING SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS PROJECT (Core Unit6) UNIT CODE: D/508/0491(Core unit)
PROJECT TITLE:MANAGING A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS PROJECT
Topic: The impact of digital technology in supporting small business growth and innovation.
Learning Outcome Assessment
Criteria
In this assessment you will have the
opportunity to present evidence that shows
you are able to:
Task
Number
Evidence
Page number
LO1 Establish project aims, objectives and
timeframes based on the chosen theme
P1 Devise project aims and objectives for a
chosen scenario.
P2 Produce a project management plan that
covers aspects of cost, scope, time, quality,
communication, risk and resources
P3 Produce a work breakdown structure and
Gantt chart to provide timeframes and stages
for completion.
LO 2: Conduct small-scale research,
information gathering and data collection,
generating knowledge to support the project
P4 Carry out small-scale research by applying
quantitative and qualitative research methods
appropriate for meeting project aims and
1

objectives
LO3: Present the project and communicate
appropriate recommendations based on
meaningful conclusions drawn from the
evidence findings and/or analysis
P5 Analyse research and data using appropriate
tools and techniques
P6 Communicate appropriate recommendations
as a result of research and data analysis to
draw valid and meaningful conclusions.
LO4: Reflect on the value gained from
conducting the project and its usefulness to
support sustainable organisational
performance
P7 Reflect on the value of undertaking the
research to meet stated objectives and own
learning and performance.
Please see that you include the Turn-it-in
report. This work will not be accepted
without the Turn it in report.
Report attached: Yes
No
If no Reason: % of the turn it in report.
Learners Declaration: I certify that the work submitted for this unit is my own and the research sources are fully acknowledged.
Learners Signature: Date:
Plagiarism:
Any act of plagiarism will be seriously dealt with according to the colleges and awarding bodies’ regulations. In this context the definition
and scope of plagiarism are presented below:
Plagiarism is presenting someone’s work as your won. It includes copying information directly from the web or books without referencing
the material; submitting joint coursework as an individual effort; copying another student’s coursework; stealing coursework form another
student and submitting it as your own work. Suspected plagiarism will be investigated and if found to have occurred will be dealt with
according to the college procedure. (For further details please refer to the plagiarism policy and the student code of conduct.)
2

Introduction
In the late 20th century, the era of digital revolution had begun but it was not until the start of early
21st century, its potential was realized in the business arena. Globally, digital technology has
assisted the boosting of economies through the deliverance of a competitive advantage,
introducing innovation and new market opportunities. However, this digital era has been rapidly
evolving and there is application such as mobile, cloud, Big Data and the Internet of Things (IoTs)
have open up the gate of opportunities for businesses to improve their reputation in the market
along with constantly improving their services and products to cater a larger audience. This report
is based on the concept how the introduction of digital technology has allowed the small medium
enterprises to boost their growth and development.
Task 1
P1: Devise project aims and objectives for a chosen scenario within Connect
Catering Ltd.
Founded in 1989, Connect Catering Ltd, an enterprise which specializes in the retail business of
readymade food and drink items so that they could be consumed in real time. The company is
focused on availing different opportunities present in the market for growth. The method through
which this could be achieved is that the company implements digital CRM. Digital CRM enables
the companies to enhance and improve their customer relationship management (CRM) and
customer experience management (CEM) through the usage of Internet communications channels
and technologies. The digital CRM is targeted on those services which allows the organization to
have in depth insights over the consumers’ preferences and habits along with providing easier and
better personalization and automated messaging system. Digital CRM is often linked to term
called the Internet of Things, it is situation in which the sending and receiving of data takes place
within computer processors as a part of daily routine. The situation can be explained in a way
where a robot is placed to cater the customer flow and an automated message is sent out to the
supplier for purchasing or delivery order.
Project aim:
Project Title
“Implementation of digital CRM at Connect Catering Ltd”
Brief Project Description
The following report would encompass the ongoing agenda for Connect Catering Ltd. The agenda
talks about implementing and utilizing digital technology for the improvement of company’s
3

market position along with providing number of competitive advantages within the local and
international market for the company.
Definition of the Problem that the project is to solve:
The report will also analyse the existing situation of the market place along with discussing
various principles of progression for Connect Catering Ltd. Also, the detection of the competitive
advantage and how to achieve them would also take place.
Project broad aim in solving the problem
The major objective of the report would be to take the organization forward in order to achieve a
stronger brand image and grow in multiple ways in the market. The following criteria is discussed
below where the organization would be able to achieve brand recognition along with the
achievement of financial sustainability.
Project objectives:
 Identify the competitive edge of Connect Catering Ltd. present within the marketplace.
Also discuss the core objective of Connect Catering Ltd.
 Examine the market situation of Connect Catering Ltd.
 Evaluation of success levels of digital CRM put into place by Connect Catering Ltd
 Analyze the brand response of Connect Catering Ltd (Broadhurst, 2009).
P2: Produce a project management plan that covers aspects of cost, scope,
time, quality, time, quality, communication, risk and resources.
Where the purpose of a team is to achieve specific objective then Project management comes into
play through a team, where the tasks of starting, preparation, performing, regulatory and final are
castigated to achieve the exact same objective.
Project management Plan:
Executive Summary
The following project is a special where the goals of Connect Catering Ltd which has to be
achieved would be highlighted along with discussion of various criteria which are to be fulfilled
in order to achieve these goals. There are number of actions included in the criteria which are the
improvement of the monetary situation, creation of more jobs, build a solid relationship with
different stakeholders and ultimately the achievement of rapid growth and progress in the market
(Butterfield and Jacobs, n.d.).
4

Strategic/Organisational Alignment
The major goal of the project is to evaluate the accomplishment of Connect Catering Ltd. through
the adaptation of digital technology by the company. It should also be noted that the goal should
be achieved within a given time period. The monetary and financial situation of Connect Catering
Ltd. should be examined and it should be measurable. Furthermore, Connect Catering Ltd.’
competitive advantage would be identified along with advantages present in the current market.
Lastly, product and brand acknowledgement of Connect Catering Ltd. would be evaluated
(Butterfield and Jacobs, n.d.).
Project Scope Definition:
The following project has been anticipated to achieve much success. If customers are retained and
jobs opportunities are created through achievement of product acknowledgement then Connect
Catering Ltd. is guaranteed to achieve higher profitability. Along with this, improved partnership
with others would also be developed through the help of this project.
Feasibility Assessment and Contingency Plan:
In order to accomplish the purpose of the project, hefty funding is required and the availability of
highly equipped mechanical gear is needed. (Thorne et al., 2015). Since Connect Catering Ltd.
promises to provide most of the resources needed, the project is expected to achieve
accomplishment.
Constraints
 Since the amount provided for the project is fixed, the chances for experimenting and
displaying creativity automatically falls with respect to the project.
 The company can also be expected to deliver less equipment and machinery than needed
in practicality (Broadhurst, 2009)
Material/Equipment requirement
Achievability of the project is very high depending on the fact that Connect Catering Ltd. would
be able to deliver the necessary mechanical equipment required for the project.
Project Schedule and Milestones
The time period designated to the project is 8 weeks and the project is expected to complete with
the given time period.
Budget/Cost Estimates
5

It is important that the project gains large amount of funds necessary for most of the facilities and
completion of project so that no barrier is to be faced during the process of project.
Risk Management
Similar to all the other projects, there are risks associated with the following project which are to
handled and managed carefully by the expert management.
Human Resource requirements
It is a known fact that the project management team is focused on the achievement of particular
goals and objectives along with fulfilment of various success criteria (Spence and Bourlakis,
2009). Therefore, for the project to be completed successfully, the company is required a team of
staff members who should possess certain skillset which would allow them to deal with respective
project efficiently. Also, the company needs to undertake the training of different staff members
for the project (Broadhurst, 2009)
P3: Produce a work breakdown structure and a Gantt chart to provide
timeframes and stages for completion for the proposed project management
plan.
WBS is considered to be the major deliverable amongst all in the project where the team’s tasks
are arranged into practical units. Also, PMBOK states that the work breakdown structure is the
hierarchical breakdown of the tasks which is considered to be a deliverable to be carried out by
the project team (Workbreakdownstructure.com, 2017)
Gantt chart is a form of bar chart which exhibits the timetable of the project. In the following
chart, starting and ending dates are exhibited along project’s gist necessities. (Staff,
2017).Following is the Gantt chart with respect to this project management plan:
6

Task 2
P4: Carry out small-scale research by applying qualitative and quantitative
research methods appropriate for meeting project aims and objectives
Chapter 1: introduction
1.1 Research Background:
Connect Catering Ltd is planning to devise and develop a project which would formulate certain
standards within the company and for the company in the market place. The standards which have
been highlighted are include creating job opportunities for the staffs along with acknowledging
the product and the main focus is the improvement of customer retention and loyalty through the
delivery of improved customer support.
1.2 Aim of research:
The aim for the project includes to achieve the highest growth levels for the company. The two
main purposes which would be fulfilled are acquirement of brand recognition in the market and
finally achieve higher profitability (Busi, 2013). The company would be able to grow at a faster
pace and efficiently through recognition, which would also present the brand name of Connect
Catering Ltd as a consolidated one while competing with the rivals (Marcovitz, 2007).
1.3 Objectives of research:
7

The main objective of the research is to examine and assess the success levels of the digital
technology adopted in the company. There is a specific time period given for the completion of
the project and it expected to be complete in the following also project should be practical in
nature and attainable. Through the research, competitive edge of the company would be identified
where it can be used for the growth of the business. Lastly, product acknowledgement is one task
which needs to be completed for the project.
1.4 Research question:
 Identify the market position of Connect Catering Ltd?
 How has digital technology impacted Connect Catering Ltd?
 How has the adoption of digital technology impacted the performance of the staff working
at Connect Catering Ltd?
 How has the implementation of digital technology affected the efficiency of Connect
Catering Ltd? (McKie, n.d.).
Chapter2: Literature Review
It has been realized by various companies how important role small and medium-sized enterprises
(SMEs) play for the economic growth in each country. There are millions of research studies
which identify various factors and aspects regarding the SMEs. In fact, the adaptation of
information and communication technology (ICT), or on a broader spectrum, digital technology,
has been discussed in detail immensely. It is through the response rate and its efficiency which the
small and medium-scale business operators rely on when the contingences regarding environment
comes up. The rapid the response is dependent upon the information systems management where
the actual business scenarios’ hopes, expectations and realities takes place. A major chunk of the
duty of the business owner is reliable on his creative abilities skills which is continuously polished
through knowledge and data (Mintel, 2017). This is where the role of information communication
technology comes in for the assistance of small and medium-scale business owners. ICT helps
these operators to devise and provide new and innovative products and services which might
include unique features as per the customer’s demand and if there are any changes required in
designing or delivering then all of these are catered accordingly (O'Donoghue, 2010). SMEs need
information technology infrastructure in order to arrange a strong platform where the business
procedures can be carried out easily along with meeting the requirements of dynamic business
environment in which they are playing. Digital technology infrastructure is a massive system of
computer hardware, software, data, storage technology, and networks which provides a specific
portfolio of shared IT resources with respect to the company. With the invention of modern
8

telecommunication, the benefits of it has increased immensely which includes faster emails,
electronic faxes, social networks etc. There has been a major decrease in the time for delivery and
support services for the product or service which has led to increased customer satisfaction,
customer retention and finally high profitability and growth levels for the company. Also, the
location of tangible products could also be tracked by the user of ICT for the delivery of goods
and services in real time (Mintel, 2017).
Chapter 3 Research Methodology
3.1: QUANTITIVE AND QUALITITIVE
There are two ways in which the firm can accumulate data which are qualitative and quantitative.
Quantitative Research is mainly used during the collection of quantified data. The following
would enable generalizations of results of a sample only into a whole population depending upon
the interest and measurements, which would include the opinions and beliefs communicated
during the collection of data. Also, there is another form of data collection called qualitative
research which aimed at further exploring a specific finding.
Qualitative research is a more intense sort of research which presents further understanding of
logic and reasons along with motives. The research aims to solve a problem but also further
highlighting different aspects where quantitative research could later be carried out. The
difference between the two lies in data sample, data collection, data analysis, and finally results.
(Zott, Amit and Massa, 2011).
3.2: PRIMARY AND SECONDARY
For any research data to be completed, collection of data is necessary. There are two types of
sources which are helpful, the first is primary and the other is the secondary source. Primary
source is the one where the data collected is purely new and never been used before. However, the
secondary data is the source which has been utilized already and exists in the form of newspaper,
magazine or internet (Allman, 2011).
3.3: SOURCE OF DATA
It has already been stated about the two forms of sources which included primary and secondary.
Primary research is focused upon the collection of factual, first-hand accounts and has been noted
down by someone who was also a participant of the project. There are number of methods used to
conduct the research but generally a scientific method is used and is also considered an original
research. Whereas secondary research is the further examination and evaluation of the primary
9

data. The method used to carry out secondary research is through the collection of primary
research and interpreting the results of the research to the relevant research topic. For example,
secondary research is considered the interpretation of various primary research study into a further
explanation of these findings (Zott, Amit and Massa, 2011).
3.4: POPULATION AND SAMPLING
Population is considered to be accumulation of data from all the persons in a specific group and
hence its collection is tough. A population is generally a very large one and its often impossible to
collect its data. The population of Connect is more than 450 employees currently working.
Since the population method is hard, generally a technique of sampling is conducted to collect
information and the data is collected from a certain portion of the population called sample
(Wallop, 2015).
Some of the samples where information can be collected from include Random sample, Stratified
sample, Quota sample, Purposive sample and Convenience sample.
For the following project, simple random sampling is utilized. A portion of the overall statistical
population where anyone can be chosen is called simple random sample. For instance, choosing
any random employees names amongst all 450 employees of Connect Catering Ltd. where the
populationis 450 but each has an equal probability of being selected.
3.5: ANALYTICAL TOOLS
First the data is collected as a whole and then it is further analysed and therefore there is a need of
some analytical tools. MS Excel would be used in the particular project as it is one of the best.
10

Task 3
P5 Analyse research and data using appropriate tools and techniques
effectiveness of Connect Catering Ltd
In the above question it was asked from the sample that how digital technology has impacted the
efficiency of Connect Catering Ltd. and it was seen that 80% of the respondents agreed to the
statement of which 35% strongly agreed, that the technology has proven POSITIVE results for
improving the efficiency of the company where only 20% had disagreed of which 10% strongly
disagreed and felt that technology has had no impact.
In the second question, it was asked that has digital technology played a part in customer retention
for the company through offering better customer support. It was seen that 65% respondents had
11

agreed to the statement which highlighted that majority believed that it has improved the customer
support services of Connect Catering whereas there were 35% of the respondents which did not
agree with the phenomena of which 20% had felt no impact on the improvement of customer
services and it is the same.
In the third question, it was observed that has there been any improvement regarding the data
provided by the technology which can lead to better customer services. There were 70% of the
respondents which had agree that the customer service has been increased through the provision
of relevant customer data. Whereas 15% did not feel that it has improved in customer support in
anyway whereas 15% only disagreed.
Improvment in productivty and efficiency
It was seen the above question that has the digital technology improved the productivity and
efficiency of the employees working at the Connect Catering Ltd. It was observed that 80% of the
12

respondents agreed with the phenomena that yes productivity of employees have been improved
through technology as they can work in less time with better tools. However, 20% disagreed of
which, 10% totally disagreed and did not feel any change in the employee’s productivity.
It was observed in the last question whether technology has been able to improve the productivity
of the company. It was agreed by 65% of the respondents that company’s productivity has been
increased after the implementation of technology. However, 35% disagreed with the following
statement of which 15% strongly disagreed and believes after the implementation of technology
has no impact on improving the company’s productivity (Marcovitz, 2007).
P6 Communicate appropriate recommendations as a result of research and
data analysis to draw valid and meaningful conclusions.
Everyone acknowledges the fact that be it any company in the small or mid-sized business,
customer service plays the most crucial part especially for the business like Connect Catering Ltd.
Depending on the quality for the service, customer loyalty towards the brand would either be
enhanced or degraded. There are different alternatives present in the market for the customers and
therefore to improve customer retention, businesses need to respond to customers’ questions,
complaints, or other needs in as less time as possible to stay ahead of its competitors. Hence,
13

improved technologies can assist Connect Catering Ltd to cater the needs of the customers, design
business process to meet the demands and ultimately increase the efficacy of Connect Catering
Ltd(Reding, 2013)
There is numerous dimension where the use of technology can improve the business of Connect
Catering Ltd and provide multiple advantages where customer loyalty can be maintained through
better provision of customer services such as:
Websites: There should be pages or column on the website where the customers could gain access
to their problems’ solution and also be provided with abrupt response
E-mail. Through the use of e-mail, customer service could be improved and certain questions and
queries could be answered in a quick way.
Communications. There should be unified platform for communications so that same person we
know if a certain person has sent a voice note has also email the same request.
Software. Customer relationship could be managed in a better way through the use of more
sophisticated data-gathering tools, like CRM software (Reding, 2013)
When discussing about the customer service in order to improve the loyalty, the aim of Connect
Catering Ltd. is to provide services and products to the customers with utmost quality and provide
efficient support. Since the advent of advanced technology, it has become easier for Connect
Catering Ltd. to provide responsive and rapid customer support, increasing the channels through
which the customer can reach the company’s representatives. There are certain ways mentioned
below which helps Connect Catering Ltd to increase the efficiency of their customer services:
Data management and analytics: Utilize the data which has been collected from customers and
that can be used to evaluate their preferences and choices.
Insight-driven marketing: Gaining knowledge about what customers think about your business
and then utilize this to effectively market the target audience.
Marketing automation. Business procedures should be streamlined and automated which would
eventually improve efficiency and reduce costs.
Self-service optimization. Whenever and wherever the customers can interact with your business
Workforce effectiveness. Staff should be constantly encouraged to embrace innovative methods
for the improvement of customer services through the provision of advanced tools or services
(Ofcom, 2015).
14

Task 4
P7: Reflect on the value of undertaking the research to meet stated objectives
and own learning and performance in this research.
I conducted a research Connect Catering Ltd. to analyse the impact of digital technology.
From this I learned about use of digital technology and how innovation is key factor for business
growth. I kept my project in given deadline to ensure it is completed in given time. I evaluated
that my performance in research was average. I faced certain issues as well such as time
management and data scheduling. Due to this I was not able to conduct research in effective way.
In order to overcome barrier of data scheduling I used new tools. It was helpful for me to interpret
data in proper way. Moreover, I have to deal with time management as well due to data
scheduling issue. But I was able to complete project in time. So, this affected my performance in
study.
But on contrary I concluded that I managed overall research effectively. First of all I
develop strategy and assigned roles. I applied my leadership style that is situational style. We got
late in completing an activity on time due to lack of resources. So it impacted on further activities
as well. So, I managed it by doing simpler thing first. Furthermore, I engaged with team members
and provided them direction. It enabled me to improve my time management skills. In addition to
it, I enhanced my communication skills as well. I need to learn that how data is schedule and what
tools or techniques are used in it. Moreover, how data is maintained and how it helps in
scheduling information. By this I will be able to complete my study before time and know how to
store and interpret data in proper way.
Thus, I learned a lot of things like how to design questionnaire, what methods are used,
etc. I also got to know about how data is gathered and stored. Beside this, I schedule the data in
proper way by taking help of expert. Apart from it, I learned different types of digital tools that
are used by small business and features of tools. Besides this, how technology has benefited
companies. I learned as well about various data analysis techniques that is SPSS. It will help me
in future to conduct study and use this technique to analyse data. I can use it to collect large data
and test relationship between them. I learnt the significance of digital technology and its role in an
organization with respective to different business operations.
Conclusion
From report it can be concluded that digital technology is useful for SME to a great extent.
The technology has allowed them to grow and expand in different markets. The use of digital
technology has improved quality of services at Connect Catering Ltd. With this they are able to
retain their customer and satisfy them. Thus, customers are loyal and prefer the company.
Furthermore, there is improvement in employee performance as well. There are various types of
15

tools and software used. Also, company is able to compete in market and increasing their
customer base. So, there has been a positive impact of digital technology in bringing innovation in
SME products and services.
16

Project logbook for Connect Catering Ltd
Project Logbook for the chosen organisation: Connect Catering
Name of the learner: Geanina Vieriu Name of the Supervisor:
Project Title:
Evaluation of level of positive or negative impact of the digital
technology on growth of company
Date:
Update of weekly research/ tasks achieved (Account for a
minimum of six weeks with dates) What have you completed?
The project of analysing the opportunity of growth
which can be achieve by implementing the digital
technology in the company Did you fulfil Task requirements?
I completed the project to asses that innovation is the
key factor to gain the success in order to ensure that
all requirements were focused Are you on track and within deadlines set?
Yes the time and deadline were the focused area
during this project Did you need to make any changes to your project
management plan?
No
Comments
Any risks and / or issues identified? Did you identify risks/issues with a lack of skills
required for undertaking research tasks?
Issues I faced include the time management and data
scheduling
 Did you identify any additional risks/issues that have
an impact on the project management plan?
Lack of data scheduling skills eventually became the
reason of conducting the activities in proper way
Problems encountered
17

 What barriers did you face?
Data scheduling How did you overcome them?
I focused on the adoption of new tool to schedule the
tasks
New Ideas and change of project direction
Is very important to clearly describe the objective of
the project
What Have I learnt about myself this week? How did I feel when I had to deal with
tasks/problems?
Different issues were creating because of lack of
scheduling of data so at that time I decided to deal
with the issues Did I find it useful to complete the tasks?
Data scheduling and time management were the areas
in respect of which this project was very useful How well have I performed? What did I contribute?
I scheduled the data with use of effective tools What can I improve on next week?
Data scheduling How might this learning apply in the future?
Information will be managed in professional data
scheduling
Tasks planned for next week Which tasks are priority?
Data scheduling Have you set aside sufficient time for completion?
Yes
Project plan status to date (on, ahead, behind)
Supervisor comments to address
Signature of the Supervisor and date:
1. What was the Project supposed to accomplish?
18

The increase in the overall performance of company was the aspect to be achieve with this project
2. Did the project succeed in its aims/ how do you know? Specifically, please outline any
evaluation and assessment undertaken.
I identified the ways by which the increase in the performance of company can be happen so this
was the reason that this project was completed successfully
3. 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.
The process of gathering the information and assessing the level of impact of digital technology
was the thing regarding which I performed well
4. What problems emerged during the project and how were they tackled? Was there timely
identification of issues and resolution during the project process?
All things were going in the right direction during the project but issues were created because of
incorrect scheduling of the information
5. What did you learn from undertaking the project?
The way by which the activities of the project can be manage with the time management skills
and effective scheduling of the data was the aspect regarding which I gained learning
6. How would you rate your performance as a management consultant leading the project?
I was good in the conduction of the project which based on assessing the impact of the digital
technology over the growth and innovation in company
7. What strengths and weakness of your performance did you identify?
The collection of data with use of modern tools was the strength and weakness was linked to the
scheduling of the data
8. How will this inform and support your continuous professional development?
It would assist in managing the data with use of technical skills which I developed in me due to
this project
References:
- Broadhurst S. ( 2009) – Digital practices.Houndmills: Palgrave Macmillan.
- Butterfield M. and Jacobs P.(n.d.) – Technology
- Marcovitz H. (2007) – Technology.Broomall PA: Mason Crest Pub
- Mckie R. – Tecnology
- O’DonoghueJ.( 2010) –Technology – Supported environments for personalized
learning.
- Mintel ( 2017) – Online Retailing – uk- July 2017.
- Ofcom (2015) – The Communications Market Report: United Kingdom [online]
available at: www.ofcom.org.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0022/20668/cmr_uk_2015
19

- Prensky M. (2001) – Digital Natives, Digital immigrants Part 1. On the horizon
- Reding V.(2013) – An important moment for European democracy. European
Commision Press Release Data Base.
- Wallop H. (2015) – Are you addicted to your mobile phone? [online] at Telegraf.co.uk
- Zott C., Amit R. and Massa L. (2011) – The Business Model: Recent Developments
and Future Research.
20