Wk 5 Final Paper

Research Paper

The Research Paper must demonstrate the understanding of new learning in project management and how it relates to cost and value management. This assignment should be six to eight pages (not including the title and reference pages) and should integrate the reading, multimedia, and class discussions. It is mandatory to have research from the classroom text, as well as at least three scholarly sources from the Internet or Ashford Online Library to support your views.

Consider the validity of your sources carefully before using them in academic papers. It is recommended to use examples from your professional experience where possible or build from your learning in the discussion boards.

Focus of the Research Paper
Use at least one project you have been a team member of or a project manager for as an example to contextualize the research topics below:

All of the following topics must be addressed in order for the paper to be completed

• Discuss the importance of work packages to support the creation and use of the WBS.
• Examine how to establish a cost and schedule performance measurement baseline.
• Present examples of EVM and how it will help the PM understand project status.
• Examine how the PM uses project control charts to show project status and present value.
• Recommend an effective change management process to ensure a successful project.  

Writing the Research Paper
The Research Paper:

• Must be six to eight double-spaced pages in length (not including the title and reference pages) and formatted according to APA style as outlined in the approved APA style guide.
• Must include a cover page that includes:
  - Title of Paper
  - Student's name
  - Course name and number
  - Instructor’s name
  - Date submitted
• Must include an introductory paragraph with a succinct thesis statement.
• Must address the topic of the paper with critical thought.
• Must conclude with a restatement of the thesis and a conclusion paragraph.
• Must use at least three outside sources from the Internet or Ashford Online Library.
• Must use APA style as outlined in the approved APA style guide to document all sources.
• Must include, on the final page, a Reference Page that is completed according to APA style as outlined in the approved APA style guide.

Carefully review the Grading Rubric (Links to an external site.) for the criteria that will be used to evaluate your assignment.

Required Readings

Read the following chapters in Cost and Value Management in Projects:

• Chapter 9: Change Control and Configuration Management

Read the contents on the Scope and Change Control (Links to an external site.) website, which provides a review of key concepts in change control with case studies and graphs to coincide with the readings and discussions for the week.