University of Galway

Course Module Information

Course Modules

Semester 1 | Credits: 5

The objective of this course is to develop in students an understanding of the fundamentals of project management within the context of information systems development. Topics include the systems development life cycle, project integration, requirements analysis and scope management, time management, cost management, risk management, communications management etc. In addition, different IS development methods will be covered (Waterfall, SDLC, RAD, and Agile methods) as well as business process modelling techniques (e.g. DFDs).
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Understand the key activities of the information systems development (ISD) process.
  2. Compare and contrast alternative ISD process models such as the “waterfall” model and agile approaches.
  3. Model process requirements using techniques such as Data Flow Diagrams, Functional Decomposition Diagrams, Use Cases, Flow Charts, State Diagrams.
  4. Understand how requirements management relates to time and cost estimation in ISD project management.
  5. Explain common causes of ISD project success and failure.
  6. Use techniques such as Gannt Charts, Work Breakdown Structures, PERT/CPM, and Burndown / Kanban Charts to manage ISD projects.
Assessments
  • Written Assessment (70%)
  • Continuous Assessment (30%)
Teachers
The above information outlines module MS804: "Systems Development & Project Management" and is valid from 2023 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.