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Task 1

Planning a Project

Create a comprehensive project plan with Gantt chart, resource allocation, and cost analysis, demonstrating professional project management skills and strategic thinking.

AO1 (Planning) - 12%
Assessment Objective
2-3 hours
Estimated Time
Moderate
Difficulty Level

Task Requirements

Core Task Description

Produce a project plan using the Pearson template with a Gantt chart plus a resource and cost plan. Schedule to a defined deadline, prioritise activities, assign resources and align to an appropriate development lifecycle.

Provide a rationale that justifies key planning decisions including task order, allocation, benefits, risks, timing and costs.

Learning Objectives

Create a comprehensive project plan using industry-standard tools
Develop accurate Gantt charts with realistic timelines and dependencies
Produce detailed resource and cost plans with justification
Write professional rationales explaining planning decisions
Apply appropriate development lifecycle methodologies
Demonstrate effective time management and prioritization skills

Time Management

Planning Phase45 min
Gantt Creation60 min
Resource Planning45 min
Written Rationale30 min
Total Estimated3 hours

Prerequisites

Understanding of project management principles
Gantt chart creation skills
Cost estimation techniques

Required Deliverables

Gantt Chart

Professional project timeline with tasks, dependencies, and critical path

Format: Spreadsheet or project management software

40%

Resource & Cost Plan

Detailed breakdown of human, technical, and financial resources

Format: Spreadsheet with supporting documentation

35%

Written Rationale

Professional justification of planning decisions and approach

Format: Word document (500-800 words recommended)

25%

Success Criteria & Assessment

Gantt Chart Quality

Clear task breakdown with logical sequencing
Realistic time estimates with buffer periods
Proper dependencies and critical path identification
Professional formatting and readability

Resource & Cost Planning

Comprehensive resource identification and allocation
Accurate cost estimates with supporting calculations
Risk assessment and contingency planning
Clear budget breakdown by categories

Written Rationale

Clear justification for task order and priorities
Evidence-based resource allocation decisions
Realistic risk and benefit analysis
Professional communication and structure

Preparation Steps

1
Review project management methodologies (Agile, Waterfall, etc.)
2
Practice creating Gantt charts with realistic dependencies
3
Research industry-standard resource rates and costs
4
Study examples of professional project planning documentation
5
Familiarize yourself with the Pearson ESP template requirements
6
Practice writing clear, evidence-based rationales

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Unrealistic time estimates without considering complexity
Missing dependencies between tasks leading to unrealistic scheduling
Inadequate resource planning or cost calculations
Weak rationale that lacks evidence-based justification
Poor presentation quality affecting professional impact
Failure to consider risk factors and contingencies

Required Tools & Resources

Software Requirements

  • Spreadsheet software (Excel, Google Sheets)
  • Project management tool (optional)
  • Word processor for rationale
  • Pearson ESP template

Knowledge Resources

  • Development lifecycle methodologies
  • Industry resource rates and costs
  • Project management best practices
  • Risk assessment techniques
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