Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4F1: Control System Design, 2020-21
Module Leader
Lecturer
Lab Leader
Timing and Structure
Michaelmas term. 12 lectures + 2 examples classes + coursework. Assessment: 75% exam/25% coursework
Prerequisites
3F1 and 3F2 useful
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- establish for the students a fundamental approach to the design of linear control systems.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- understand the role and importance of feedback for the control of uncertain dynamical systems.
- demonstrate the information conveyed via root locus diagrams for transient behaviour and basic frequency response analysis using Nyquist (polar) and Bode plots.
- following its basic derivation, illustrate the use of the Nyquist stability criterion with both open loop stable and open loop unstable systems;
- understand factors which limit achievable performance in feedback systems.
- use analytical tools to understand trade-offs (e.g. Bode gain/phase relations, sensitivity integrals).
- translate general requirements for robustness and performance into specifications on the open-loop frequency response.
- use computer software for simple control system design and system simulation
- design simple compensators to achieve such specifications.
Content
Control system design (11L)
- System dynamics, stability and instability, principles and use of root locus plots, derivation of Nyquist stability criterion, Bode theorems and plots.
- Design of simple P.I.D. controllers and phase compensators. Sensitivity, complementary sensitivity and SISO robustness. Non-minimum phase systems and limitations, bandwidth. Delays in systems.
- Two degree of freedom design.
Introduction to Coursework (1L)
Case studies and simulation.
Coursework
Case studies and design by simulation and computer software, e.g. use of Matlab. Four hours DPO time plus report (further four hours).
| Coursework | Format |
Due date & marks |
|---|---|---|
|
Coursework activity #2 Final Coursework 2 brief description Learning objective: |
Individual Report anonymously marked |
Fri week 9 [15/60] |
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIB Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
IA2
Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
D1
Wide knowledge and comprehensive understanding of design processes and methodologies and the ability to apply and adapt them in unfamiliar situations.
D4
Ability to generate an innovative design for products, systems, components or processes to fulfil new needs.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
E4
Understanding of and ability to apply a systems approach to engineering problems.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
Last modified: 25/09/2020 15:07
Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4F1: Control System Design, 2022-23
Module Leader
Lecturer
Lab Leader
Timing and Structure
Michaelmas term. 12 lectures + 2 examples classes + coursework. Assessment: 75% exam/25% coursework
Prerequisites
3F1 and 3F2 useful
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- establish for the students a fundamental approach to the design of linear control systems.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- understand the role and importance of feedback for the control of uncertain dynamical systems.
- demonstrate the information conveyed via root locus diagrams for transient behaviour and basic frequency response analysis using Nyquist (polar) and Bode plots.
- following its basic derivation, illustrate the use of the Nyquist stability criterion with both open loop stable and open loop unstable systems;
- understand factors which limit achievable performance in feedback systems.
- use analytical tools to understand trade-offs (e.g. Bode gain/phase relations, sensitivity integrals).
- translate general requirements for robustness and performance into specifications on the open-loop frequency response.
- use computer software for simple control system design and system simulation
- design simple compensators to achieve such specifications.
Content
Control system design (11L)
- System dynamics, stability and instability, principles and use of root locus plots, derivation of Nyquist stability criterion, Bode theorems and plots.
- Design of simple P.I.D. controllers and phase compensators. Sensitivity, complementary sensitivity and SISO robustness. Non-minimum phase systems and limitations, bandwidth. Delays in systems.
- Two degree of freedom design.
Introduction to Coursework (1L)
Case studies and simulation.
Coursework
Case studies and design by simulation and computer software, e.g. use of Matlab. Four hours DPO time plus report (further four hours).
| Coursework | Format |
Due date & marks |
|---|---|---|
|
Coursework activity #1 Final Coursework 1 brief description Learning objective:
|
Individual Report anonymously marked |
Fri week 9 [15/60] |
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIB Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
IA2
Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
D1
Wide knowledge and comprehensive understanding of design processes and methodologies and the ability to apply and adapt them in unfamiliar situations.
D4
Ability to generate an innovative design for products, systems, components or processes to fulfil new needs.
E1
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and emerging technologies.
E2
Ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply its solution using computer based engineering tools when appropriate.
E3
Ability to apply mathematical and computer based models for solving problems in engineering, and the ability to assess the limitations of particular cases.
E4
Understanding of and ability to apply a systems approach to engineering problems.
P1
A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations and some appreciation of likely new developments.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
US1
A comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles of own specialisation and related disciplines.
US2
A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of mathematical and computer models relevant to the engineering discipline, and an appreciation of their limitations.
Last modified: 18/11/2022 16:20
Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4E12: Project Management, 2024-25
Module Leader
Lecturer
Dr N Oraiopoulos
Timing and Structure
Lent term. Eight 2-hour sessions + coursework. Assessment: 100% coursework (please see details below)
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- introduce the principal elements of project management; equipping students with the basic skills to enable them to manage a project and to operate effectively as part of a project team.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- use a set of tools and frameworks that enable effective project planning and execution.
- understand the need for appropriate governance structures and control systems in the delivery of project objectives.
- run a small scale project and to be an effective member of any project team.
Content
Session 1: Introduction to Project Management
- Wide applicability of Project Management (PM)
- Reasons why project fail
- History of PM: Roots of change
- Critical Path Method (CPM): Dragonfly Case - part 1
Session 2: Project Planning and Control
- Beyond the CPM; the PERT method
- EVA/ABC
- Design Structure Matrix
- Monte Carlo Simulation and Limitations
- Dragonfly Case - part II
Session 3: Ambiguity in Large Innovative Projects
- Flying Car Case
- Managing Residual Uncertainty
- Strategies for Managing Ambiguity
Session 4: Project Risk Management
- Intro to PM Risk Management
- Review of decision trees
- Real Options
Session 5: Managing Project Teams
- In-class exercise
- Heavyweight vs lightweight project managers
- Functional vs. project-based organizations
Session 7: Portfolio Management
- Scoring tables and financial indices: value and limitations
- Risk return matrices and visual tools
- The need for diversification in high risk projects
Session 8: Project Management Contracts
- Fixed fee/Time and Materials/Performance-based contracts
- Comparison and applicability of each contract type
- Risk-sharing through optimal contract design
- Barganining power and negotiations
Coursework
Individual Coursework (100%).
| Coursework | Format |
Due date & marks |
|---|---|---|
|
[Coursework activity: Project Prioritization and Analysis / Final] Brief description You will be given a case study and asked to analyse the risk profiles of different projects portfolios. You will have to make a recommendation regarding what projects should the company select and defend your recommendation with both quantitative and qualitative arguments. Learning objectives:
|
Individual Report anonymously marked |
Beginning of Easter Term
|
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIB Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
IA2
Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
S1
The ability to make general evaluations of commercial risks through some understanding of the basis of such risks.
S2
Extensive knowledge and understanding of management and business practices, and their limitations, and how these may be applied appropriately to strategic and tactical issues.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
P7
Awareness of quality issues.
Last modified: 31/05/2024 10:06
Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4E12: Project Management, 2017-18
Module Leader
Lecturer
Dr N Oraiopoulos
Timing and Structure
Lent term. Eight 2-hour sessions + coursework. Assessment: 100% coursework (please see details below)
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- introduce the principal elements of project management; equipping students with the basic skills to enable them to manage a project and to operate effectively as part of a project team.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- use a set of tools and frameworks that enable effective project planning and execution.
- understand the need for appropriate governance structures and control systems in the delivery of project objectives.
- run a small scale project and to be an effective member of any project team.
Content
Session 1: Introduction to Project Management
- Wide applicability of Project Management (PM)
- Reasons why project fail
- History of PM: Roots of change
- Critical Path Method (CPM): Dragonfly Case - part 1
Session 2: Project Planning and Control
- Beyond the CPM; the PERT method
- EVA/ABC
- Design Structure Matrix
- Monte Carlo Simulation and Limitations
- Dragonfly Case - part II
Session 3: Ambiguity in Large Innovative Projects
- Flying Car Case
- Managing Residual Uncertainty
- Strategies for Managing Ambiguity
- Stakeholder Management
Session 4: Project Risk Management
- Intro to PM Risk Management
- Review of decision trees
- Real Options
Session 5: Managing Project Teams
- In-class exercise
- Heavyweight vs lightweight project managers
- Functional vs. project-based organizations
Session 7: Portfolio Management
- Scoring tables and financial indices: value and limitations
- Risk return matrices and visual tools
- Experimental evidence: collective bias
Session 8: Project Management Contracts
- Fixed fee/Time and Materials/Performance-based contracts
- Comparison and applicability of each contract type
- Risk-sharing through optimal contract design
- Barganining power and negotiations
Coursework
In-class individual case discussion contributions (20%), Group case write-up (30%), Coursework work individual (50%).
| Coursework | Format |
Due date & marks |
|---|---|---|
|
Coursework activity #1: Project Management Case Study Coursework 1 brief description You will be given a case and asked to analyse the risk management framework that the managers use to ensure a smooth transition of the IT operations. Learning objective:
|
Group Report anonymously marked |
Beginning of Lecture 4 [18/60] |
|
[Coursework activity #2 Project Prioritization and Analysis / Final] Coursework 2 brief description You will be given a case study and asked to analyse the risk profiles of different projects portfolios. You will have to make a recommendation regarding what projects should the company select and defend your recommendation with both quantitative and qualitative arguments. Learning objective:
|
Individual Report anonymously marked |
Beginning of Easter Term [30/60] |
Booklists
Please see the Booklist for Group E Courses for references for this module.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
IA2
Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
S1
The ability to make general evaluations of commercial risks through some understanding of the basis of such risks.
S2
Extensive knowledge and understanding of management and business practices, and their limitations, and how these may be applied appropriately to strategic and tactical issues.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
P7
Awareness of quality issues.
Last modified: 19/01/2018 16:34
Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4E12: Project Management, 2023-24
Module Leader
Lecturer
Dr N Oraiopoulos
Timing and Structure
Lent term. Eight 2-hour sessions + coursework. Assessment: 100% coursework (please see details below)
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- introduce the principal elements of project management; equipping students with the basic skills to enable them to manage a project and to operate effectively as part of a project team.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- use a set of tools and frameworks that enable effective project planning and execution.
- understand the need for appropriate governance structures and control systems in the delivery of project objectives.
- run a small scale project and to be an effective member of any project team.
Content
Session 1: Introduction to Project Management
- Wide applicability of Project Management (PM)
- Reasons why project fail
- History of PM: Roots of change
- Critical Path Method (CPM): Dragonfly Case - part 1
Session 2: Project Planning and Control
- Beyond the CPM; the PERT method
- EVA/ABC
- Design Structure Matrix
- Monte Carlo Simulation and Limitations
- Dragonfly Case - part II
Session 3: Ambiguity in Large Innovative Projects
- Flying Car Case
- Managing Residual Uncertainty
- Strategies for Managing Ambiguity
Session 4: Project Risk Management
- Intro to PM Risk Management
- Review of decision trees
- Real Options
Session 5: Managing Project Teams
- In-class exercise
- Heavyweight vs lightweight project managers
- Functional vs. project-based organizations
Session 7: Portfolio Management
- Scoring tables and financial indices: value and limitations
- Risk return matrices and visual tools
- The need for diversification in high risk projects
Session 8: Project Management Contracts
- Fixed fee/Time and Materials/Performance-based contracts
- Comparison and applicability of each contract type
- Risk-sharing through optimal contract design
- Barganining power and negotiations
Coursework
Individual Coursework (100%).
| Coursework | Format |
Due date & marks |
|---|---|---|
|
[Coursework activity: Project Prioritization and Analysis / Final] Brief description You will be given a case study and asked to analyse the risk profiles of different projects portfolios. You will have to make a recommendation regarding what projects should the company select and defend your recommendation with both quantitative and qualitative arguments. Learning objectives:
|
Individual Report anonymously marked |
Beginning of Easter Term
|
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIB Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
IA2
Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
S1
The ability to make general evaluations of commercial risks through some understanding of the basis of such risks.
S2
Extensive knowledge and understanding of management and business practices, and their limitations, and how these may be applied appropriately to strategic and tactical issues.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
P7
Awareness of quality issues.
Last modified: 30/05/2023 15:30
Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4E12: Project Management, 2022-23
Module Leader
Lecturer
Dr N Oraiopoulos
Timing and Structure
Lent term. Eight 2-hour sessions + coursework. Assessment: 100% coursework (please see details below)
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- introduce the principal elements of project management; equipping students with the basic skills to enable them to manage a project and to operate effectively as part of a project team.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- use a set of tools and frameworks that enable effective project planning and execution.
- understand the need for appropriate governance structures and control systems in the delivery of project objectives.
- run a small scale project and to be an effective member of any project team.
Content
Session 1: Introduction to Project Management
- Wide applicability of Project Management (PM)
- Reasons why project fail
- History of PM: Roots of change
- Critical Path Method (CPM): Dragonfly Case - part 1
Session 2: Project Planning and Control
- Beyond the CPM; the PERT method
- EVA/ABC
- Design Structure Matrix
- Monte Carlo Simulation and Limitations
- Dragonfly Case - part II
Session 3: Ambiguity in Large Innovative Projects
- Flying Car Case
- Managing Residual Uncertainty
- Strategies for Managing Ambiguity
Session 4: Project Risk Management
- Intro to PM Risk Management
- Review of decision trees
- Real Options
Session 5: Managing Project Teams
- In-class exercise
- Heavyweight vs lightweight project managers
- Functional vs. project-based organizations
Session 7: Portfolio Management
- Scoring tables and financial indices: value and limitations
- Risk return matrices and visual tools
- The need for diversification in high risk projects
Session 8: Project Management Contracts
- Fixed fee/Time and Materials/Performance-based contracts
- Comparison and applicability of each contract type
- Risk-sharing through optimal contract design
- Barganining power and negotiations
Coursework
Individual Coursework (100%).
| Coursework | Format |
Due date & marks |
|---|---|---|
|
[Coursework activity: Project Prioritization and Analysis / Final] Brief description You will be given a case study and asked to analyse the risk profiles of different projects portfolios. You will have to make a recommendation regarding what projects should the company select and defend your recommendation with both quantitative and qualitative arguments. Learning objectives:
|
Individual Report anonymously marked |
Beginning of Easter Term
|
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIB Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
IA2
Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
S1
The ability to make general evaluations of commercial risks through some understanding of the basis of such risks.
S2
Extensive knowledge and understanding of management and business practices, and their limitations, and how these may be applied appropriately to strategic and tactical issues.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
P7
Awareness of quality issues.
Last modified: 30/09/2022 10:07
Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4E12: Project Management, 2019-20
Module Leader
Lecturer
Dr N Oraiopoulos
Timing and Structure
Lent term. Eight 2-hour sessions + coursework. Assessment: 100% coursework (please see details below)
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- introduce the principal elements of project management; equipping students with the basic skills to enable them to manage a project and to operate effectively as part of a project team.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- use a set of tools and frameworks that enable effective project planning and execution.
- understand the need for appropriate governance structures and control systems in the delivery of project objectives.
- run a small scale project and to be an effective member of any project team.
Content
Session 1: Introduction to Project Management
- Wide applicability of Project Management (PM)
- Reasons why project fail
- History of PM: Roots of change
- Critical Path Method (CPM): Dragonfly Case - part 1
Session 2: Project Planning and Control
- Beyond the CPM; the PERT method
- EVA/ABC
- Design Structure Matrix
- Monte Carlo Simulation and Limitations
- Dragonfly Case - part II
Session 3: Ambiguity in Large Innovative Projects
- Flying Car Case
- Managing Residual Uncertainty
- Strategies for Managing Ambiguity
- Stakeholder Management
Session 4: Project Risk Management
- Intro to PM Risk Management
- Review of decision trees
- Real Options
Session 5: Managing Project Teams
- In-class exercise
- Heavyweight vs lightweight project managers
- Functional vs. project-based organizations
Session 7: Portfolio Management
- Scoring tables and financial indices: value and limitations
- Risk return matrices and visual tools
- Experimental evidence: collective bias
Session 8: Project Management Contracts
- Fixed fee/Time and Materials/Performance-based contracts
- Comparison and applicability of each contract type
- Risk-sharing through optimal contract design
- Barganining power and negotiations
Coursework
In-class individual case discussion contributions (20%), Group case write-up (20%), Coursework work individual (60%).
| Coursework | Format |
Due date & marks |
|---|---|---|
|
Coursework activity #1: Project Management Case Study Coursework 1 brief description You will be given a case and asked to analyse the risk management framework that the managers use to ensure a smooth transition of the IT operations. Learning objective:
|
Group Report anonymously marked |
Beginning of Lecture 4 [12/60] |
|
[Coursework activity #2 Project Prioritization and Analysis / Final] Coursework 2 brief description You will be given a case study and asked to analyse the risk profiles of different projects portfolios. You will have to make a recommendation regarding what projects should the company select and defend your recommendation with both quantitative and qualitative arguments. Learning objective:
|
Individual Report anonymously marked |
Beginning of Easter Term [36/60] |
Booklists
Please see the Booklist for Group E Courses for references for this module.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
IA2
Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
S1
The ability to make general evaluations of commercial risks through some understanding of the basis of such risks.
S2
Extensive knowledge and understanding of management and business practices, and their limitations, and how these may be applied appropriately to strategic and tactical issues.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
P7
Awareness of quality issues.
Last modified: 28/05/2019 14:40
Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4E12: Project Management, 2020-21
Module Leader
Lecturer
Dr N Oraiopoulos
Timing and Structure
Lent term. Eight 2-hour sessions + coursework. Assessment: 100% coursework (please see details below)
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- introduce the principal elements of project management; equipping students with the basic skills to enable them to manage a project and to operate effectively as part of a project team.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- use a set of tools and frameworks that enable effective project planning and execution.
- understand the need for appropriate governance structures and control systems in the delivery of project objectives.
- run a small scale project and to be an effective member of any project team.
Content
Session 1: Introduction to Project Management
- Wide applicability of Project Management (PM)
- Reasons why project fail
- History of PM: Roots of change
- Critical Path Method (CPM): Dragonfly Case - part 1
Session 2: Project Planning and Control
- Beyond the CPM; the PERT method
- EVA/ABC
- Design Structure Matrix
- Monte Carlo Simulation and Limitations
- Dragonfly Case - part II
Session 3: Ambiguity in Large Innovative Projects
- Flying Car Case
- Managing Residual Uncertainty
- Strategies for Managing Ambiguity
Session 4: Project Risk Management
- Intro to PM Risk Management
- Review of decision trees
- Real Options
Session 5: Managing Project Teams
- In-class exercise
- Heavyweight vs lightweight project managers
- Functional vs. project-based organizations
Session 7: Portfolio Management
- Scoring tables and financial indices: value and limitations
- Risk return matrices and visual tools
- The need for diversification in high risk projects
Session 8: Project Management Contracts
- Fixed fee/Time and Materials/Performance-based contracts
- Comparison and applicability of each contract type
- Risk-sharing through optimal contract design
- Barganining power and negotiations
Coursework
In-class individual case discussion contributions (5%), Group case write-up (30%), Coursework work individual (65%).
| Coursework | Format |
Due date & marks |
|---|---|---|
|
Coursework activity #1: Project Management Case Study Coursework 1 brief description You will be given a case and asked to analyse the risk management framework that the managers use to ensure a smooth transition of the IT operations. Learning objective:
|
Group Report anonymously marked |
Beginning of Lecture 4
|
|
[Coursework activity #2 Project Prioritization and Analysis / Final] Coursework 2 brief description You will be given a case study and asked to analyse the risk profiles of different projects portfolios. You will have to make a recommendation regarding what projects should the company select and defend your recommendation with both quantitative and qualitative arguments. Learning objective:
|
Individual Report anonymously marked |
Beginning of Easter Term
|
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIB Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
IA2
Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
S1
The ability to make general evaluations of commercial risks through some understanding of the basis of such risks.
S2
Extensive knowledge and understanding of management and business practices, and their limitations, and how these may be applied appropriately to strategic and tactical issues.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
P7
Awareness of quality issues.
Last modified: 16/02/2021 06:35
Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4E12: Project Management, 2025-26
Module Leader
Lecturer
Dr N Oraiopoulos
Timing and Structure
Lent term. Eight 2-hour sessions + coursework. Assessment: 100% coursework (please see details below)
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- introduce the principal elements of project management; equipping students with the basic skills to enable them to manage a project and to operate effectively as part of a project team.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- use a set of tools and frameworks that enable effective project planning and execution.
- understand the need for appropriate governance structures and control systems in the delivery of project objectives.
- run a small scale project and to be an effective member of any project team.
Content
Session 1: Introduction to Project Management
- Wide applicability of Project Management (PM)
- Reasons why project fail
- History of PM: Roots of change
- Critical Path Method (CPM): Dragonfly Case - part 1
Session 2: Project Planning and Control
- Beyond the CPM; the PERT method
- EVA/ABC
- Design Structure Matrix
- Monte Carlo Simulation and Limitations
- Dragonfly Case - part II
Session 3: Ambiguity in Large Innovative Projects
- Flying Car Case
- Managing Residual Uncertainty
- Strategies for Managing Ambiguity
Session 4: Project Risk Management
- Intro to PM Risk Management
- Review of decision trees
- Real Options
Session 5: Managing Project Teams
- In-class exercise
- Heavyweight vs lightweight project managers
- Functional vs. project-based organizations
Session 7: Portfolio Management
- Scoring tables and financial indices: value and limitations
- Risk return matrices and visual tools
- The need for diversification in high risk projects
Session 8: Project Management Contracts
- Fixed fee/Time and Materials/Performance-based contracts
- Comparison and applicability of each contract type
- Risk-sharing through optimal contract design
- Barganining power and negotiations
Coursework
Individual Coursework (100%).
| Coursework | Format |
Due date & marks |
|---|---|---|
|
[Coursework activity: Project Prioritization and Analysis / Final] Brief description You will be given a case study and asked to analyse the risk profiles of different projects portfolios. You will have to make a recommendation regarding what projects should the company select and defend your recommendation with both quantitative and qualitative arguments. Learning objectives:
|
Individual Report anonymously marked |
Beginning of Easter Term
|
Booklists
Please refer to the Booklist for Part IIB Courses for references to this module, this can be found on the associated Moodle course.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
IA2
Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
S1
The ability to make general evaluations of commercial risks through some understanding of the basis of such risks.
S2
Extensive knowledge and understanding of management and business practices, and their limitations, and how these may be applied appropriately to strategic and tactical issues.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
P7
Awareness of quality issues.
Last modified: 04/06/2025 13:28
Engineering Tripos Part IIB, 4E12: Project Management, 2018-19
Module Leader
Lecturer
Dr N Oraiopoulos
Timing and Structure
Lent term. Eight 2-hour sessions + coursework. Assessment: 100% coursework (please see details below)
Aims
The aims of the course are to:
- introduce the principal elements of project management; equipping students with the basic skills to enable them to manage a project and to operate effectively as part of a project team.
Objectives
As specific objectives, by the end of the course students should be able to:
- use a set of tools and frameworks that enable effective project planning and execution.
- understand the need for appropriate governance structures and control systems in the delivery of project objectives.
- run a small scale project and to be an effective member of any project team.
Content
Session 1: Introduction to Project Management
- Wide applicability of Project Management (PM)
- Reasons why project fail
- History of PM: Roots of change
- Critical Path Method (CPM): Dragonfly Case - part 1
Session 2: Project Planning and Control
- Beyond the CPM; the PERT method
- EVA/ABC
- Design Structure Matrix
- Monte Carlo Simulation and Limitations
- Dragonfly Case - part II
Session 3: Ambiguity in Large Innovative Projects
- Flying Car Case
- Managing Residual Uncertainty
- Strategies for Managing Ambiguity
- Stakeholder Management
Session 4: Project Risk Management
- Intro to PM Risk Management
- Review of decision trees
- Real Options
Session 5: Managing Project Teams
- In-class exercise
- Heavyweight vs lightweight project managers
- Functional vs. project-based organizations
Session 7: Portfolio Management
- Scoring tables and financial indices: value and limitations
- Risk return matrices and visual tools
- Experimental evidence: collective bias
Session 8: Project Management Contracts
- Fixed fee/Time and Materials/Performance-based contracts
- Comparison and applicability of each contract type
- Risk-sharing through optimal contract design
- Barganining power and negotiations
Coursework
In-class individual case discussion contributions (20%), Group case write-up (20%), Coursework work individual (60%).
| Coursework | Format |
Due date & marks |
|---|---|---|
|
Coursework activity #1: Project Management Case Study Coursework 1 brief description You will be given a case and asked to analyse the risk management framework that the managers use to ensure a smooth transition of the IT operations. Learning objective:
|
Group Report anonymously marked |
Beginning of Lecture 4 [12/60] |
|
[Coursework activity #2 Project Prioritization and Analysis / Final] Coursework 2 brief description You will be given a case study and asked to analyse the risk profiles of different projects portfolios. You will have to make a recommendation regarding what projects should the company select and defend your recommendation with both quantitative and qualitative arguments. Learning objective:
|
Individual Report anonymously marked |
Beginning of Easter Term [36/60] |
Booklists
Please see the Booklist for Group E Courses for references for this module.
Examination Guidelines
Please refer to Form & conduct of the examinations.
UK-SPEC
This syllabus contributes to the following areas of the UK-SPEC standard:
Toggle display of UK-SPEC areas.
GT1
Develop transferable skills that will be of value in a wide range of situations. These are exemplified by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Higher Level Key Skills and include problem solving, communication, and working with others, as well as the effective use of general IT facilities and information retrieval skills. They also include planning self-learning and improving performance, as the foundation for lifelong learning/CPD.
IA1
Apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems.
IA2
Demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs.
KU1
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of essential facts, concepts, theories and principles of their engineering discipline, and its underpinning science and mathematics.
KU2
Have an appreciation of the wider multidisciplinary engineering context and its underlying principles.
S1
The ability to make general evaluations of commercial risks through some understanding of the basis of such risks.
S2
Extensive knowledge and understanding of management and business practices, and their limitations, and how these may be applied appropriately to strategic and tactical issues.
P3
Understanding of contexts in which engineering knowledge can be applied (e.g. operations and management, technology, development, etc).
P7
Awareness of quality issues.
Last modified: 25/05/2018 13:48
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