Rational Identification By Dr Shabnum Shaheen Project Rationale

Rational Identification By: Dr. Shabnum Shaheen

Project Rationale The Project Rationale is a statement of facts explaining the background of the project. The rationale identifies the need for the product or process and offers viable solutions. The rationale is one of the first documents to be written by the Project Manager and sets the background for the Business Case.

Project Rationale Project rationale explains why the project must go ahead, as suggested by Young (2007), and what would happen if the project was not approved for further considerations. The project rationale is the first document that will be studied by project Board and therefore can act as a launching pad for making the first impressions with those in charge. Rationale is generally defined as the justification for undertaking an activity. Brown (ncte. org, 1994) puts it most eloquently by stating that the project rationale is the articulation of reasons. It needs to be jargon free, specific, thorough, and readily understood

Guidance for Writing a Rationale The project rationale should be approached as a strategic plan within organizational context. It needs to address the following issues: 1. Where are we now: Identify the organizational strategy; the need for the project within organizational context and its fit with other projects; and identification of the main drivers. 2. Where do want to be: what are the project goals and benefits it will offer when completed within its given scope. 3. How do we get there: setting objectives; identify milestones and deliverables as a measure of success; and how to utilize experience and lessons learnt from previous projects.

Guidance for Writing a Rationale The project rationale must be evidence based: • A clear and concise document underpinning the importance of the project and state justifiable reasons for its approval. • Outline the identified problem within organizational context. • Analyze the main determinants such as market requirements, identified risks, and resource requirements. • Evaluate possible solutions and recommendation of preferred option. • Draw on previous experience and lessons learnt from previous projects for justification of assumptions. • Clear statement of goals to be achieved and benefits to gain.

Summary The Project Rationale is the Reason statement explaining the problem, identifying the need, and offering justifiable solutions. It can be said that the business case provides the focus for the project which narrates the rationale and the justification. Moreover, the rationale describes the market opportunity, offers business solutions and identifies the project context within the organizational strategy.

References Bentley, C, 2010, 2 nd ed, PRINCE 2 Revealed, Oxford, Butterworth. Heinemann Young, T, 2007, 2 nd ed, Successful Project Management, London, Kogan Page Ltd Brown, J, 1994, http: //www. ncte. org/about/issues/censorship/resources/115785. htm Monk, A, 2012, http: //ezinearticles. com/? Prince 2 -Principles-Part- 1&id=6940703