Initiative Scope
Scope is the work required to output an initiative's deliverable. Change happens, and scope management includes the process to manage scope changes and make sure the initiative will still come in on time and within budget. Scope is often defined by a work breakdown structure, and changes should take place only through formal change control procedures.
Executive Sponsor Expectations
The Executive Sponsor is ultimately responsible for the outcome of the initiative. The Executive Sponsor actively engages in the initiative and is not a figurehead. They play a strategic rather than tactical role, with day to day work and activities of the project team for the initiative being the responsibility of the project manager.
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Defines and gains leadership a support for the initiative scope. The scope describes expected project outcomes including quality, financial, and timing measures. It also sets forth the high-level communication expectations.
- Recruits the initiative manager, and partners with them to identify and recruit team members. Confers authority to team as appropriate and necessary. The initiative manager will lead the day to day work with the team.
- Supports the initiative manager and team. Weighs in on big-picture issues. Fosters team values, including accountability and transparency. Establishes access and visibility when needed. Offers constructive and positive feedback to improve performance. Obtains necessary resources, if any.
- Serves as spokesperson for the initiative with leadership (a). Assists the team if extraordinary difficulties arise or if organizational interference prevents progress.
- Interacts regularly with the project manager and/or team. Establishes clear communication protocol for updating on project activities as well as flagging and responding to emergencies. Attends status or team meetings as needed. Recognizes team successes.
(a) For this purpose, leadership typically includes the UBalt Executive Team, University Faculty Senate, and University Staff Senate. For initiatives that directly impact student, and University Student Government Association is also included.
Initiative Manager Expectations
OVERVIEW:
The Initiative Manager is responsible for ensuring proper project coordination, communication, and the successful completion of project activities. Difficulties impacting scope, schedule and cost will be communicated to the executive sponsor for guidance and approval.
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Lead all activities through completion.
- Partner with resource managers to identify and schedule project team resources. Develop more detailed work effort estimates for identified activities.
- Manage the day to day work activities for the initiative. Establish the communication plan, schedule of tasks, risk management plan and change management plan. Monitor and report on work progress and milestones.
- Provide appropriate communication on status, issue escalation and upcoming work activities based on the communication plan. Seek support and guidance from the executive sponsor for challenges that have a negative impact on scope, schedule and/or cost.
- Oversee closure activities, such as lessons learned and operationalization. Seek feedback from all active team members and stakeholders.
- Lead the development of artifacts (e.g. requirements, issues and lessons learned).