Different projects types

How should we categorize different types of projects?

Three words to define :1- typology 2- taxonomy 3- classification

The project management profession needs a classification system for different types of projects

Four basic ways for setting up a classification system :1- geographical location2- industrial sector 3- stage of the project life cycle 4- product of the project

The most important and the most useful breakdown is by type of product or deliverable that the project is producing

Type of Project Product of Project (Examples)Administrative -installing a new accounting systemConstruction -a building or a roadComputer Software Development -a new computer program Design of Plans -architectural or engineering plansEquipment or System Installation -a telephone system or a IT systemEvent or Relocation -Olympiads or a move into a new buildingMaintenance of Process Industries -petro-chemical plant or electric generating stationNew Product Development -a new drug or aerospace/defense productResearch -a feasibility study or investigating a chemical Other -?

Common characteristics of the major types of projects

Required Project Management Approach

Other variables common to all types of projects :

•Size•Duration (Length of time)•Industrial sector•Geographical location•Number of workers involved•Cost (large, medium or small)•Complexity•Urgency •Organizational design