Summer project and dissertation
"My overall learning was tremendous... The final project gave me the opportunity to work alongside a top development manager for Apple Inc."
Adrian Tedeschi
MSc Project Management, 2006
The summer project and dissertation is the largest single component of the MSc, and offers a real chance to put your practical PM skills to the test. It also enables you to demonstrate your growing awareness of the issues associated with project-based management. The project period runs from late May to mid-August. During September you then write your academic dissertation.
Two types of summer project are possible: action research projects and desk-based research projects. Which type you undertake will depend both on your level of experience and the aptitude you have shown in the earlier part of the programme.
Action research projects
Some recent action research projects
- Analysing change management practice during projects for an international construction firm, to identify positive factors and constraints in the management process
- Strategic market analysis of the real ale market for a micro-brewery in North West England, to identify possibilities for future expansion
- Process mapping the expedition management of a UK youth development charity, and developing recommendations for streamlining office communications
- Implementing a project-based performance measurement system
- A needs assessment and recommendations for a corporate signage (way-finding) system
In some cases students may be required to work away from Lancaster, directly for the organisation. Typically you prepare a client report for the organisation, and will probably also be asked to present your findings to the client. This is in addition to the formal dissertation you submit for your MSc.
This type of project is most suited to students who have a sponsoring organisation, prior experience of project work or who have shown exceptional ability and dedication during the programme.
Desk-based research projects
These focus on critical examination of an issue in project management. This enables you to select and explore in depth a topic of specific personal or professional interest to yourself or to a sponsoring organisation (if appropriate). Wherever possible, you are encouraged to link your topic to known concerns of a particular client organisation. The exploration goes beyond the traditional literature-based analysis of the topic under investigation. Your goal is to obtain a clearer insight into the issue and to determine its implications for project-based management and the possible approaches for its resolution, management or engagement.
Learning from the project
With both types of project, the academic dissertation is marked by Lancaster University. Various strategies are used to help you learn throughout the project process. You have an academic supervisor to mentor you and help you in developing your project and dissertation. You are encouraged to keep a reflective project log, to help you to examine your evolving thoughts, actions and strategies as the work progresses. You also present your work formally to your fellow students at various key stages, such as problem definition, research design, etc.
