Blog 3

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2. Blog #3.
Recap of last week.
Last we learned the importance of how to identify the stakeholders of our organization and how to complete a stakeholder analysis using a power interest grid, identified specific information about stakeholders we felt was relevant to our project.
Briefly describe the main points of what you learned from the readings for the week.
The main points I read from the readings for the week was the importance of a needs assessment. I also learned the importance of developing and presenting a project plan, scope, and time frame which are extremely crucial to a strategic plan. These measures set the tone and allow it to operate smoothly if necessary precautions have been completed. We learned the importance of how a project process is constructed, how to define the scope of a project, and creating a project plan. We were given an example of sample of a sample scope outline which was very helpful to me. We learned that it is crucial to agree on who is involved in a project process including identifying and consulting the stakeholders. We learned how to decide upon an area of operation in order to receive the benefit of an action plan, agree on an expectant project deliverable.
Identify areas that were a little confusing from the readings.
The areas of the reading I found confusing was the readings of the scope. It seems like the scope, mission, and vision are the same to me but I think I am confusing the three. I read in our readings that scope and vision are often used to interchange but I would like to know more about this. I would like to know if the mission is separate from the scope and the vision. The needs assessment was very straightforward and clear to me as the reminder of the readings. The scope and vision were the most confusing aspects to me! :(
Discuss your work on your mini projects and overall technology strategic planning project including successes and setbacks.
The last week was very challenging to me, a lot of unexpected and challenging things happened to me that set me back. The organization that agreed to allow me to facilitate their strategic plan backed out on Tuesday and decided they did not want a strategic plan. I was upset but I quickly thought this is the type of thing I may run into as a professional. It is not personal, it is business and they did not think I could not fit their needs as an individual; it was the service that I could provide. No does not always mean ever, it just means not now. In the future the organization said they would like to contact me about planning one. Never the less I am determined to learn more about Strategic Planning & IDT!!! :-) I spoke to several of my friends and acquaintance and informed them of my project and what it entails and the benefits they shall receive. I was distraught because no one took my offer until Friday morning. While at work Friday morning, I received a phone call from the project manager of a popular girl's organization she said the committee chair of this organization wanted to me with me ASAP about my project. I met with them Friday evening and they loved the project and wanted me to begin ASAP! That worked out great for me since I needed to begin ASAP! :-) The committee is collaboration between two organizations. This is a new committee that is implementing technology and five other areas into a mentoring program for girls aged 14-18.