Ver. EM 636 Summer 2013
EM 636 - Project Management: Introduction to concepts of project management and techniques for planning and controlling of resources to accomplish specific project goals. While the focus is on technically oriented projects, the principles discussed are applicable to the management of any project. Topics include time, cost considerations, cash flow forecasting, financial and performance control, documentation.
Administrative Issues of this Course
What is in my eLearning Pack this Semester?
Detailed Weekly Schedule of the Course
Final Deadline to Submit ALL Assignments
This is your latest, therefore the most current schedule. Last update: May 16, 2013 (Update history: May 16, 2013)
First, a few words about... Quality-focused Project Management...
ASQ (American Society for Quality) Student Chapter at NJIT. ASQ is the largest quality society in the world. Join us, see what is ging on, hear and network with professionals! We have weekly short meetings at NJIT, as well as almost every month a really nice technical meeting with a presentation and FREE dinner (usually in a VERY nice restaurant in Newark, or New York City) with our parent section, ASQ Section 300. For the student membership Information PDF file: click here. More from your instructor, Dr. Ranky, the founding academic member of the NJIT ASQ Student Chapter. The actual ASQ Chapter Section 300 web site we are part of is here. Please consider joining ASQ. This is a perfect fit for this course as well as for the EM profession as a whole.
Please Read This Syllabus! It contains Vital Information about the course as well as all the Assignments, Homework and Grades! Without reading, understanding and following this syllabus you won't be able to get a good grade in this course. (Yes, I know it is long, and detailed, but it intends to answer ALL your questions.)
Academic Integrity: Please refer to NJIT's Academic Integrity web site that contains much information about strategies to promote academic integrity and avoid cheating on class work and exams (http://integrity.njit.edu/). Also, please refer to the Academic Integrity web site that contains much information about strategies to promote academic integrity and avoid cheating on classwork and exams. http://integrity.njit.edu/index.html. The “Best Practices” document developed and is published on the Provost’s website (on the policies page) or directly at http://www.njit.edu/academics/provost/docs/Best_Practices_related_to_Academic_Integrity.pdf
During the 2008-2009 academic year, the NJIT Administration worked very closely with the Student Senate to enhance and improve NJIT's Honor Code. The Committee on Academic Affairs and the NJIT Faculty approved the Student Senate’s recommendations developed from the findings of the University's Taskforce on the Honor Code. The approved document, “University Code on Academic Integrity” thus replaced the older Honors Code document. (http://www.njit.edu/academics/pdf/academic-integrity-code.pdf)
All students are responsible for upholding the integrity of NJIT by reporting any violation of academic integrity to the Office of the Dean of Students. (http://www.njit.edu/doss/) The identity of the student filing the report remains anonymous. NJIT will continue to adapt its policies and procedures to make clear that academic dishonesty will not be tolerated at this institution.
PLEASE save the TREES and be sustainably lean and green! Please DO NOT Print neither this syllabus, nor your homework assignments/ midterms, etc. Keep it all on the web in digital format. Use this web site to read it in this electronic format; it will be updated during the semester. Thank you!
The On-line Distance Learning / eLearning Class: Project Management (with a Quality Civil & Construction Engineering Management Focus...)
Learn About Project Management within an Analytical Sustainable Green Lean Six-sigma Quality Framework, based on a set of analytical, quantitative, graphical, statistical and open-source computational methods and tools. Our purpose is to help you to reduce the industry's large number of project failuers to zero, to improve quality project management in civil engineering, in construction management, in related product, process and service system design projects, including related IT/IS systems, to progress towards making your products, processes and services increasingly leaner and sustainably greener.
In this course we learn analytical methods and tools, and apply them to solve real-world, practical project management and project control challenges in the civil engineering / construction management, and related industries. With the aid of advanced 3D interactive multimedia, digital videos and analytical methods and tools, that every student receives within their eLearning Packs, we go on virtual tours and analyze various civil engineering, construction management, engineering management, design, manufacturing, quality and other projects, factories, products, processes and service systems in the USA, Europe, Japan, Asia, and around the world, and then apply our quality-focused project management methods and tools to improve them. The methods, tools and technologies you learn in this class applies to virtually any civil engineering / construction industry-related system, anywhere in the world. The eLearning Packs are customized and updated every semester. Also, there is a social networking component in the course to learn about quality project management chllenges and solutions.
In this course you will learn about project management focused process modeling, requirements analysis, process failure risk analysis, continuous improvement, and other useful concepts, with open source software tools / spreadsheets, and customizable system model templates.
You will also learn about the following: Project Management for Civil and Construction Engineers...; Project Timeline / Phases of a Typical Civil Engineering Project...; Project Lifecycle Matrix...; Building Information Modeling (BIM)... Building Information Modeling and Generative Design...; Integrated Project Delivery...; Specific Construction Industry Challenges and Solutions...; The Role of Project Managers...; Predictive Analytics...; Predictive Models; Pollution by the Construction Industry...; Air Pollution; Water Pollution; Noise Pollution; Measures to Prevent Pollution; Pressure to Clean Up: The key problem is law enforcement...; Some Useful Sustainable Green Resources; LEED Green Building Certification and Rating Systems; Major Responsibilities of a Construction Project Manager; Risk Identification, Risk Analysis and Reduction; Major Responsibilities of the Architectural Project Manager; Secrets To A Successful Construction Project...; Costs Associated with Constructed Facilities; Earned value management (EVM), or Earned value project /performance management (EVPM); 5 Tricks Every Construction Project Manager Must Know; “How to Protect Your Company when Projects Go Wrong?”; Construction Project Cover Up...; Sustainable Project Management... ; Resources: New Project Management Concepts for Sustainability...; Why Go Bright Green for Project Management?; Some Important Project Management Monitoring and Controlling Tools & Techniques; Project Communication Tools and Techniques; Earned Value Analysis; Pulse Meetings; Variance Reports; Program Reviews; Technical Reviews; Project Forecasting; The 14 Most Common Mistakes IT Departments Make; The 10 Common Project Management Mistakes and How to Correct Them; Green Building to Accelerate, Survey Finds...; Major Civil Engineering / Construction Projects; Integrated Project Delivery (IPD); Project Management Leadership Skills, and others.
Furthermore, you will understand collaborative, team-oriented approaches to sustainable green project management, as well as learn about professional (web-based) documentation and presentation methods, and team ethics. Most importantly, you'll learn the internationally accepted and practiced lean six-sigma approach to project management. This is a truly novel framework for this subject and the best news is, that it works in practice very well!
Project managers must understand marketing too... in terms of advanced marketing, you will see and experience how the 3D interactive Virtual Product Demo (VPD) method works for eMarketing in our globally interrelated world; including marketing your very own project results, or services.
High quality, sustainable green civil and construction engineering is the next huge challenge for all of us! Quality project management in this industry is crucially important for all of us. (Unfortunately there are a large number of projects fail due to reasons we will discuss in this course in detail; we'll also offer some excellent methods, tools and technologies to prevent and entirely avoid project failures. Please be absolutely cler about this: zero defect / zero project failure is our goal!)
This course will help you to prepare for such challenges. As a result, as an engineering project manager you'll lead this crucial change process. This is not just an excellent professional field of interest, but because of the waste reduction opportunities, also great business.
by
Paul G. Ranky, PhD
Full Tenured Professor
Registered Chartered Professional Engineer
Member of the American Society for Quality (ASQ), Audit Division and Lean Enterprise / Advanced Manufacturing Division. NJIT ASQ Chapter founding professor at NJIT. (Parent Section 300, New York / New Jersey, USA)
ISO (International Standards Organization) USA voting TAG (Technical Advisory Group) Member and ISO 50001 co-author (this is the NEW international Energy Management Standard!) Also Member of ISPE, International Society of Pharmaceutical Engineers, USA, ASEE, IEEE, IEE, FEANI, SAE, PMI
IEEE Green Engineering Editor, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering and the NJIT IS/ IT Program. NJIT, University Heights, NJ 07102 -1982
You can find out more about the Professor’s past and current research work and background at http://www.cimwareukandusa.com/aboutpgr.htm
This course introduces the concept of quality project management for civil engineering and the construction industry, and presents methods, tools, technologies and case studies for product, process and service quality improvement within an extended sustainable green lean six-sigma quality framework. The emphasis is on prevention through quality project management, project engineering, project control, design, and implementation. Since we believe in zero defect, and we show methods, tools and technologies how to achieve zero defect, we go beyond traditional statistical process quality control methods and tools, although we integrate these valuable methods into our framework. We are keen advocates of feedback-controlled zero defect policies and methods versus random sampling-oriented open-loop quality control systems and solutions.
We present practical, industrial, as well as research-level use-cases and challenges focusing on system design / product / process / service system design, manufacturing, real-time systems, supplier and logistics management, project management, quality assurance, process control, construction management, packaging, assembly, robotics, urban planning: megacities, large city quality challenges, marine pollution and related quality challenges, and many other cases. We include competitor analysis as appropriate and we discuss analytical methods and tools to help this process in virtually any industry, anywhere in the world.
As you will see the benefit of giving a broad knowledge base with detailed, in-depth discussions (also known as the 'T' shaped learning model). You will be able to understand methods, tools and technologies in a variety of industries and then apply them to your own. We should learn the best from each other, following legal and ethical rules; this is a key innovation opportunity, that can also save huge chunks of any project cost and time.
In as much detail as time permits, besides the generic project management principles, these are the major civil engineering and construction project management topics we discuss in this course, including the following: Project Lifecycle Matrix; Building information modeling (BIM); Building Information Modeling and Generative Design; Integrated Project Delivery; Specific Construction Industry Challenges and Solutions...; The Role of Project Managers; Predictive Analytics...; Predictive Models; Process Models for Project Management, and Time & Cost Analysis Based on Accurate Process Models; Pollution Created by the Construction Industry...; Air Pollution; Water Pollution; Noise Pollution; Measures to Prevent Pollution; Pressure to Clean Up: The key problem is law enforcement...; Some Useful Sustainable Green Resources; LEED Green Building Certification and Rating Systems; Major Responsibilities of a Construction Project Manager; Project Risk Identification, Risk Analysis and Reduction; Major Responsibilities of the Architectural Project Manager; Secrets To A Successful Construction Project...; Costs Associated with Constructed Facilities; 5 Tricks Every Construction Project Manager Must Know; “How to Protect Your Company when Projects Go Wrong?”; Construction Project Cover Up... ; Sustainable Project Management... Resources:; New Project Management Concepts for Sustainability...; Why Go Bright Green for Project Management?; Some Important Project Management Monitoring and Controlling Tools & Techniques; Project Communication Tools and Techniques; Soft-skills; Earned Value Analysis; Pulse Meetings; Variance Reports; Program Reviews; Technical Reviews; Project Forecasting; 14 Most Common Mistakes IT Departments Make; 10 Common Project Management; Mistakes and How to Correct Them ; Green Building to Accelerate, Survey Finds...; A Major Civil Engineering / Construction Project Success Case in New York City: Hines Celebrates Groundbreaking on Signature Office Property 7 Bryant Park; International Civil Engineering and Construction Management Project Examples, and Others.
We also learn about web-page design, web-based knowledge documentation, knowledge management, social networking, and optionally even video conferencing over the web, when you do your quality assessment / data collection / audit briefings on a global basis. These are ALL extremely important methods, tools and technologies for the civil engineering / construction project manager. Projects these days are typically global, therefore it is extremely important to learn some basic web-based knowledge documentation, knowledge sharing and digital communication skills.
All very new, exciting, and simultaneously analitical as well as practical course focusing on YOU, to help YOU to get a good job, and prosper in the corporate world, anywhere in the world, because quality is VERY important everywhere in the world.
Some novel features of this class, that are going to help you to become a truly 21st century hi-tech professional...
Having worked through this class successfully, every student of mine will be able to:
A strong focus on creating "T-shaped people" who not only have a "deep technical education," but are also capable of "innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurial sense."
I am pleased to state, that we have been following this approach for the past 17 years at NJIT with my students... I know, for some of you this is very, very different and unusual, and even difficult to accept, nevertheless PLEASE TRUST ME, that I am trying to help you to become VERY successful; this is why it is essential for all of us to follow these concepts:
The American Society of Engineering Educators Reports: Stanford's Engineering School Looks To Balance Traditional, Creative Approaches. Inside Higher Ed (May 14, 2010, Epstein) reports, "The undergraduate offerings at Stanford University's School of Engineering could be engaged in a tug of war."
The program's current "emphasis on current state-of-the-art technical knowledge must be complemented with an openness to change," according to James D. Plummer, the school's dean. "We need to teach our students to be lifelong learners, to be able to keep updating themselves to be the best they can possibly be throughout their careers," he said.
But retaining accreditation is important, "so rather than giving up on the bean-counting basics" Plummer has focused on creating "T-shaped people" who not only have a "deep technical education," but are also capable in terms of "innovation, creativity, [and] entrepreneurial sense." The article details Stanford's program, and some of the differing views on it. Inside Higher Ed notes that, overall, curricula have become "more holistic" since ABET began implementing its Engineering Criteria 2000 standards.
Let me share this with you: The 10 Principles Of Learning (ref.: http://www.peloruslearning.com/the-10-principles-of-learning)
1. Learners need to know where they are going and have a sense of progress towards their objectives.
2. The learning environment has to be one of trust, respect, openness and acceptance of differences.
3. Being aware of and owning the responsibility for learning lies with the learner. Others can only give information and support, and provide feedback.
4. Learners need to participate actively in the learning process.
5. Learning should be related to and use the learner’s experience and knowledge.
6. Learning is not only a basic capability but also a group of skills which can be developed and/or learned.
7. Facts, concepts and skills are learned in different ways.
8. Getting ideas wrong can be a valuable aid to developing understanding.
9. For learning to be processed and assimilated, time must be allowed for reflection.
10. Effective learning depends on realistic, objective and constructive feedback
The 'USA needs more practical engineers...' says Bertoline, dean and distinguished professor at Purdue University’s College of Technology...
'The keynote topic was what was Gary Bertoline terms a “fatal flaw” in engineering higher education. The U.S. struggles to hire the people needed to fill technical positions. At least part of the problem: The engineering education system in this country has been built around scientifically oriented engineering curricula, producing theoretical engineers who have little knowledge of how to apply skills to real-world engineering jobs.
The problem grew out of a post-WWII mentality in which engineers thought if they didn’t get their hands dirty, they would be taken more seriously as professionals like lawyers and doctors. The movement created curricula with a lot of math, a lot of science, and a lot of theoretical representation of how to go about solving problems; unfortunately, not a lot of practical knowledge about how to work in today’s manufacturing industries.' More here:http://www.automationworld.com/operations/addressing-fatal-flaw-engineering-education?&spMailingID=6153877&spUserID=Nzg0Nzk5ODk2MQS2&spJobID=73661974&spReportId=NzM2NjE5NzQS1
(My position on the above is very clear: we need a strong analytical foundation, as well as good practical engineering and management skills. I am pleased to state, that this course offers a good balance between some exciting analytical as well as practical engineering knowledge and skills. (It is interesting to see though, that based on 15 years of student evaluations and feedback on this subject, almost every semester at NJIT, about 5 percent of the students do not want ANY practical engineering knowledge to be taught, or learned, or practiced... and the rest, about 95 percent or so want more and welcome the balance provided...)
EM 636 is a simultaneously analytical, as well as practical course loaded with useful knowledge, that you can turn into project management, design, management, and continuous improvement opportunities in almost any project, factory, institution, or organization, or system. As much as possible, we all try to create a relaxed and happy learning environment in this class, and I try to teach you several new analytical methods and tools, that you can easily deploy in your REAL world, and prosper! My motto is: 'Happy Learning for REAL!' As you will see, all of our examples, challenges, as well as solutions are practical and REAL; they are all preparing you for REAL LIFE problem solving challenges.
As one of my former students, Major Jack Parker, US Army, National Guard Bureau, Training Division, Washington, DC states about my quality course (this is also true for this course):
'As I developed the assignments, I really could have spent the rest of the year going through the principles and methods I learned in this course. Your course materials provided a great education for me in TQM. I look forward to applying my new knowledge in the Army in every means I find possible and feasible. Thanks again for your great instruction and materials.'
Other former students write the following about the project management courses I taught at NJIT:
This is what some of my recent graduate students in project management wrote about this course:
'In summarizing the assignments I would like to reiterate that project management in today’s global market of projects poses many dynamic task and without computer based analysis tools could not be solved in the given time frames of the fast moving pace of business in today’s global economy. Moreover, the fact that standard models such as Kanban are not always appropriate for some processes means that as a project manager one must be aware of the possibilities to design and implement one’s own solution models. Another key aspect that was pointed out in this assignment was the ability of project managers to manage the variety of resources available to them to successfully complete a project; one such resource is the project team it self which can consist of a variety of people of different cultures who may not always share the same opinions and approaches. Thus a project manager must be able to motivate and maximize the abilities of the team while keeping requirements at the forefront of the project. The lean six sigma approach geared my thinking towards ways of improving the processes of my project that would enhance customer requirements and reduce waste and cost.
What I have truly taken away from this course is the fact that in today’s variety of project management challenges in relation to production operations is that it’s not individually about how fast a process can produce, but how can high efficiency, high quality and required capacity all co-exist to meet customer requirements.',
Shawn, NJIT graduate student
This (final) assignment is the culmination of all of the work that I have done through out this course. In each assignment, you can see different project management methodologies and how it was applied to the problem at hand. In the beginning of the course, I had no real knowledge of how one should go about managing a project. Quite frankly, the term six sigma alone scared me. But as the course went on, and my knowledge of real project management techniques grew, I felt more comfortable with the topic, and I feel that my knowledge is justifiably shown throughout this final assignment.
I came into this class thinking that I had a decent amount of knowledge in project management. I though that many of the courses that I have taken before this already provided me enough insight into the project management field and the different methods there are to effectively manage a project. I was completely wrong. This course has showed me that that there are many more powerful techniques used in the project management field, from the CORA framework to the PFRA matrix. Even if I am not a project manager in my profession, I know that these techniques will help me improve the quality of my work, and more importantly, how I initially assess a new project.
I think that the most important aspect of this course is not necessarily the methods presented to us, but how the course gets us to think in a different way. Since the course concepts were integrated into so many different industries, when I look at a product or service, I think how they applied the same techniques that we learned throughout this course. Similarly, at work, I now think in more a project manager mindset. I find myself thinking how I can reduce any risky processes in the program that I writing or how user requirements will affect the current code I am writing and how I can improve that code so new user requirements will be easier to implement.
This course has given me a great insight into the project management field. I feel that this course has prepared me with the basic skills and knowledge to understand many advanced project management techniques. Although this course has not taught me every management technique available, it has given me the base knowledge necessary in order to research and learn these skills on my own. Without this class preparing me, I would not feel that I would be ready to take on a project and manage it from start to finish. With having this class, I now feel comfortable with doing this and know that succeed in any project management task that I apply my skills and knowledge towards.'
David, NJIT graduate student
Dear Professor Dr. Ranky,
Thank you very much! I really learnt a lot from your course. The methods I have learnt from this course are very useful and they will improve my skills in project management.
Thank you.
Best regards,
Zhenyuan, NJIT graduate student
'Throughout the semester the overall achievements are numerous, the project management skills learned via the e-book and instructional videos have helped to give me a much better understanding of what project management entails. With the completion of assignment 5 evaluation skills were learned which will help me to better perform when working in a team. Questions used to evaluate individuals can sometimes not fully encompass the persons role in the team therefore, leaving the questions open for interpretation helps to broaden the users options.'
Joseph, NJIT graduate student
Hello Dr. Ranky
Attached below is the link to my assignment 5 and all other Re-submissions.
Once again, it was my ULTIMATE pleasure taking your class this semester. Did not think it was possible two times in a row but I really enjoyed taking this class with you too. I love reading all the articles and all the information in your book. Especially after taking this second class, i am going to make it my goal to try to take all your classes because i learn so much.
Really again, I am extremely thankful for you and your class and really look forward to taking your class again!
Best Regards,
Oladipo
Hello Dr Ranky,
I just wanted to let you know this was an amazing class, I have truly learned a lot and it certainly brought lots of memories from bachelors as i have taken a class with you in Bachelors and IE 673.
Again, thank you for all your help during the class. It has truly helped me alot to open and address projects at Tiffany and Co.
Regards,
Pratik
Good evening Dr. Ranky ,
Thank you for your time this semester and I look forward to learning more form you in the future.
Cheers,
Eric
Dear Professor Ranky,
Thank you for everything you have taught me in class. Even small
remark on each of the assignments made me rethink about how processes
are done or proposed in class work and real world. As I have informed
you earlier, I worked on many projects with my current employer, but I
have never used such unique way of planning out a project, rather we
just went ahead with our intuition in most of the planning and hired or
processed as we went ahead. Obviously, failure rate was higher since
the project lacked properly planning, data gathering, solid
partnership, or funding. So far, I am working on a new marketing
project and incorporated some of the basics (not yet able to input
advanced portion of the class material as I am working on the setup
stage) materials taught in class.
I sincerely thank you for everything that you have done in class for me.
.... Honestly, your class is more goal oriented and I was enjoying the class more than other classes. †
It was more challenging, yet its beyond textbook material (I get so
bored in some other classes that only use textbook and memorizing
definitions). †
Thank you for the opportunity to join your class and I hope to share
some of my new project outcome when its completed next year. ...
Best regards,
Jongcheol, NJIT graduate student
Respected Professor,
... It was an enjoyable experience working with you
Thank You
Yours faithfully
Vivek, NJIT graduate student
Dr. Ranky,
the goal ( of my project in this course) was to design and manufacture a marketable, next-generation digital camera that will be equipped with the proper accessories to meet the needs of users who travel the globe. With a design team of five companies, it was crucial for the project manager to create a process that incorporated all the resources into a coherent and responsive plan.
A process model (system model/ process model in CIMpgr) was developed to identify the necessary tasks to be completed, designating which parties were responsible for certain tasks. A customer requirements model (a Component Oriented Requirements Analysis (CORA) Matrix) was performed to clearly identify and prioritize the importance of the different features the new camera system shall be equipped with.
Lastly, a risk based analysis (a Process Failure Risk Analysis (PFRA)) was performed to analyze the tasks and identify all potential risks that could inhibit the design and production processes. The result of all the modeling concluded what crucial steps that required additional efforts on the part of the design team, prioritized certain elements in the project by their risk levels and ultimately assisted the project manager how to direct his design team to perform the work efficiently without major risks involved.'
Jim, NJIT graduate student
Dr. Ranky,
.... I really enjoyed your class especially the fact that you did not have many constraints as far as the assignment goes.
Thank you,
Mahfuja, NJIT graduate student
Hello Prof,
Thank you for the following reasons:
- Teaching us crucial topics about Project Management
- Adding value to teaching by giving us a live project to do
- Allowing us to continuously improve on our work
- Encouraging us to do better by providing proper feedback
- Guiding us if we are stuck in any of the stages of our project
- Patiently going through our assignments (including reworked ones)
- Posting grades!
It was actually a very valuable course I have taken so far. I learnt
valuable things that will be helpful to me in real life projects. I
really enjoyed working with you and still have quest to learn more from
you :)
Have a great summer!
Thanks,
Namita, NJIT graduate student
Dear Prof. Dr. Ranky,
Thanks a lot for all your guidance, support and knowledge. This course
was very informative about various aspects of Project management. I
learned a lot and hope this will prove useful in my near future.
Thanks,
Monika, NJIT graduate student
Dr. Ranky, Thanks for your patience, and helpful suggestions throughout the semester.
By enrolling in this class and learning the TQM principles proved to be highly
beneficial; learning to build my 1st website was icing on the cake.
I certainly got my money's worth. In fact, I will even go as far as saying
that this class was a bargain. The wealth of knowledge that I now have at my
fingertips from your e-textbook is invaluable. The excel and visio templates
were extra treats that helped facilitate our learning - thanks for your effort
in putting all that material together!
Warmest Regards, See you in IE 655, Bryant R. Jackson - brj2, Electronics Engineer
Thank you for this very nessecary tool to put in our arsenal of
learning.
Roldan
I just wanted to say that this semester has been very useful and that I
have already started to incorporate the lessons learned, in conjunction
with Lean Six Sigma, at my job to evaluate Processes.
Hope that you have a wonderful holidays. David Sabanosh
Last but not least let me take this opportunity to thank you for the knowledge you passed on in the classroom and I look forward to applying this knowledge in the real world.
Thanks for the learning experience, George
Being in your class was a learning experience, I now look forward to putting the knowledge gain into work practice. Thank you, John K. Wilson Jr.
' Dear Professor Ranky,
This is Eduardo Canales. I had taken IE_673 last semester with you as part of my master degree in EM. I just want to thank you for such a valuable tool you taught us as it is TQM. Right now, I am working on a matrix evaluation and I remember. I had your Ranky Cora excel tool, which I am using.
The fact that it's in a CD and it's on excel make it practical and fast to use. But not only is the Ranky Cora but all other tools that are in the CD.
Again thanks for your teaching and guidance.
Sincerely, Eduardo
Dear Professor Ranky,
I would like you know that I truly enjoyed your class yesterday. After graduating from NJIT with a degree in CoE { computer engineering] I was unable to find a job that I liked and would like to make a career in and felt horrible that I went to school for engineering and came out with pretty much nothing. That was when I decided to look for something in the Finance field and fortunately I was able to land a job, and I like dealing with money and control it has on society. Yesterday’s class made me realize why I did engineering and I was good to know that I didn’t lose the love I had for math, science, inventions... just engineering in general.
I am looking forward to class next week!
Regards,
Alka
I have successfully completed my final semester, with this I complete my
Master's in Engineering Mgmt. and all set for the Graduate walk slated for
May'06.
I will be joining full time with GE as a Project Application Engineer based at
Lombard(IL) by 3rd week of Jan'06. My education and work experience will help
me take up this challenging & exciting position.
It has been a great learning experience for me to be associated with you, It
would not have been possible for me to contribute without your help and
support. I value your contribution in my development as person and
professional. Thank You All.
With Best Wishes & Regards,
Rajesh
Professor Ranky,
I am excited to be taking your class again. TQM (Spring '05 was
excellent).
David
Good Evening Professor,
Last semester's class was incredible since it is helping me in different areas of my current job. My Director wants to digitize all the documents in our department. I am trying to convince them to put them on a website that is accessible only to the people that should have access.
I thought of that idea after taking your class! I have thought about many ideas that can be implemented thanks to the new concepts that I learned last semester. It was a very hard class!, but well worth it.
Alexis
Thank you for the course. I really enjoyed it and learned a lot. The
project was very interessting and challenging too.
Thanks & Regards,
Ashley
Hope all is well with you, I just wanted to wish you Happy Holidays! I am in California now and will be going tomorrow for a 2-week vacation. I am really enjoying my job at Boeing and I appreciate all the advice you've given us throughout the TQM course. Hope you have a wonderful time!
Warmest Wishes,
Linda
My response to these emails...
I have to admit, that student comments like the ones above make me not just incredibly happy, but also work harder every semester to give you the latest and the best, and to continuously update and improve this course and the learning resources. I know it is popular because we all learn useful methods and tools, as well as see the REAL WORLD via virtual factory tours on videos and the web, and then apply the analytical methods; I am delighted, that you like my 3D eBooks with customizable spreadsheets, interactive 360 degree panoramas, images and digital videos too!
Note, that this is a combined Welcome Letter and Course Outline for the distance learning class. Please read it carefully. You will find all essential course information here.
Please note, that this document will be updated during the semester. If anything is unclear please contact me.
Also note, that any copy-paste work in any assignments or any work in this course carries zero grade points... I would like to encourage you to innovate, and create your own work. (I know even large companies copy from each other and then get caught, and sometimes pay large fines...sometimes get away with it after a messy legal battle...) I don't think this is the set of events any of us would enjoy... we must be different; we have to innovate and work hard to prosper, and we CAN! (Engineers are wealth creators...)
Some really useful advice about the style of professional communication...
Often I get some truly friendly emails from my students... many of these include SMS-style text messages, 'buddy language', such as 'hi paul, how r you doin...', etc.
Whilst I am flattered by your friendly communication style, there is something I must bring to your attention. At NJIT it is not just my job to teach you analytical skills, but also professional courtesy and conduct so that you become successful in the US and in international industry.
For communication (emails) in my courses at NJIT you must observe the following:
I hereby kindly inform you that these NJIT guidelines must be met in all electronic communication.
There is another important issue here, this is when students change their names during the semester... yes, it happens, and when you'll be an engineering manager you'll face similar issues; and you'll 'love it'... In our NJIT world what happens is that the names in emails, in myofficial NJIT roster, or official grading templates on the secure server, and even in earlier emails from the same student don't match... this is a HUGE problem for me, so PLEASE DO NOT DO THIS!
Always stick to the SAME name in every email, that you have given to NJIT (because this is the way I see you in my list).
Every semester I have one or two students, who despite all above, do not use their NJIT known nameand even change their emails a lot. Then if I miss them, or question this, this is their usual respons: 'Oh yes professor, I sometimes use my name this way, and some other times that way...'.
Well, again: PLEASE USE YOUR NJIT KNOWN NAME ONE WAY, THE SAME WAY; DO NOT CHANGE YOUR name, or NJIT email during this course because it causes confusion and delay. Thanks! (When you'll be an engineering manager and your 120+ team members will do this to you you'll understand me better...).
Also, all NJIT rosters, grade sheets, etc. like everywhere elsein the world are sorted by family name first. So again, please use the SAME naming conventions, that YOU have given to NJIT... we are not asking you to change anything, just follow what YOU have given to NJIT earlier... and stick to that... hope this is clear...
Every semester I have 3-4 students who confuse all of us with different name combinations, changed names, nick names, etc. Kindly note, that we will ALL SUFFER because of this; we'll have delayes and other problems...you have been warned, therefore pls. don't be upset if you'll get an incomplete grade and you'll garduate a semester later because of the above... so PLEASE NOTE AGAIN, stick to the rules as above. THANKS!
Regards,
Prof. Ranky
P.S.
Had I phrased my emails in a friendly SMS-style, or all in capital letters to my boss during my first job I would have been fired on the spot...
Contact Information...
Paul G. Ranky, PhD
Full Tenured Professor, NJIT
If the NJIT email system works you can email me at NJIT: ranky@njit.edu (Please note, that for reliability reasons I have added another email address: paul.ranky.njit.edu@mac.com. This is very important because sometimes NJIT's email does not work for weeks and then you cannot reach me and I cannot reach you... it happened with the Google email transition in December 2012 at NJIT... Please use this alternative email (running on an ultra reliable Apple server, backed up by reliable UNIX servers) and send again your email if you don't get an answer from me within 5 to 7 working days. I can read the paul.ranky.njit.edu@mac.com account over the Internet anywhere where I have Internet access, therefore even if I am away at a conference on NJIT business, or research we can be in touch.)
Furthermore, note, that this course runs in the summer; we re all busy doing reserach in the summer, preparing lectures, working with students, writing books and papers, and yes, even having a vacation; ALL of us, not just me... I will certainly factor this in this summer too.
In case of an emergency, including weekends and holidays, please email me. I look at my emails on my cellphone frequently, unless I am away where my cellphone wi-fi server does not work.
Note, that my office is in NJIT ME Building room 310 at NJIT.
My office hours for the summer semester will be occasionally available by appointment only. Pls. keep me informed of your progress by email, and I'll be happy to see you as soon as I can if you need help. Pls. note, that you don't have to see me, but if you wish, we'll make a mutually acceptable appointment at NJIT, and you will be able to see me.
Find out more about the Professor’s past and current research work and background at (don't miss some of my best diving and skiing pictures as well as the 360 degree, gyro enabled interactive panoramas that I have created with my brother...): http://www.cimwareukandusa.com/aboutpgr.htm
Some examples with videos of our related new R&D work we have completed for the LSC (The Liberty Science Center in New Jersey). These are the web sites: http://njit-lsc.njit.edu/pauldesign.html and http://njit-lsc.njit.edu/paulrobot.html
Also, if you scroll to the end of this page: http://www.cimwareukandusa.com/aboutpgr.htm, you'll see some really interesting and beautiful interactive 360 degree panoramas of some truly amazing architectural, civil engineering and construction projects. (I shot these panos and processed them together with my brother.) If you have an iPhone, try the egyro enabled panos too. Enjoy!
Academic Calendar
Please look up the NJIT website. EM 636 follows a double session summer course schedule.
What are Hybrid Courses?
Since some of our classes will be hybrid, you should understand what a hybrid, or blended class is...
hy·brid - noun - something of mixed origin or composition; something, such as a computer or automobile plant, having two kinds of components that produce the same or similar results.
Hybrid courses (also known as blended, or mixed mode courses) are courses in which a significant portion of the learning activities have been moved online and time traditionally spent in the classroom is reduced but not eliminated.
The goal of hybrid courses is to pair the best features of face-to-face teaching with the best options of online learning to promote active and independent learning and reduce class seat time.
Using instructional technologies, the hybrid model forces the redesign of some lecture or lab content into new online learning activities, such as case studies, tutorials, self-testing exercises, simulations, and online group collaborations.
This site (ref.: http://media.njit.edu/hybrid/) was created in support of NJIT's Pilot Program in Hybrid Learning and the Weekend University.
"Within five years, you'll see a very significant number of classes that are available in a hybrid fashion," says John R. Bourne, a professor of electrical and computer engineering at Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering who is editor of the Journal of Asynchronous Learning Networks. "I would guess that somewhere in the 80- to 90-percent range of classes could sometime become hybrid."
And he says he expects to see more students choose to take online courses even if they live on campus.
"Hybrid Teaching Seeks to End the Divide Between Traditional and Online Instruction" by Jeffrey R. Young, March 22, 2002, Chronicle of Higher Education. (Ref.: http://media.njit.edu/hybrid/)
As an NJIT undergraduate, graduate, live and/ or Distance learning, or in other words eLearning Student, or hybrid course student you are entitled to benefit of significant FREE computing resources, meaning hardware, lots of free software, as well as on-line email, web-site storage space, and related Internet and NJIT intranet server services. The steps below intend to help you on how to set up a web page for documenting your assignments for this course. Please read and follow each step. Obviously if you already have a web page, either through work, or business, or otherwise, please feel free to use that, or the one you prefer. (All we want is for you to learn the method, and then put all your assignments on the web, learn how to manage your knowledge over the web, and then email your URL with your assignments to the instructor for grading). Note, that you can use any suitable web authoring software. NJIT has a few too.
These are the steps to follow (as provided by NJIT's IT and Computing Services):
Hopefully all works... I'd like to see your beautiful webpages! Simple and working fine.
One of my students offered this explanation on how to upload webpages to the NJIT server: (might have changed...I do not use this system, sorry... I use only professional servers...) Click to see it in .html
Also, another student of mine suggests to use Netscape for free webpage design. This is the link: Netscape 7.2 is free for download for both PC and Mac at the following URL:
http://browser.netscape.com/ns8/download/archive72x.jsp
Last, but not least: ALWAYS test your uploaded assignment using your own, as well as somebody else's computer, to make sure that everything works fine. (Also, ask one of your classmates, or friends to check it for you, by sending him/her an email with a full URL in it, like this: http://www.mycoursewebpage.edu. Always include the full URL into the email, else it won't link directly).
Also note, that besides the class discussions (live class), the eLearning pack eBooks have several examples on the architecture of simple and complex web-pages. All of these are in open source, please study them! (Note, that open-source does not mean that you can upload an entire eBook of mine, or video onto a server on the web. This would be a major copyright violation!!!! Try to stay out of legal trouble, USA lawyers are the best... PLEASE!)
As always,
Happy Learning for REAL,
Professor Paul G. Ranky, PhD
For ALL assignments: Please note, that if you are late with the submission of an assignment, then you can only submit it together with the last, i.e. the 5th Assignment. In other words if you are late with an assignment, you are missing a rework opportunity based on my comments. You can resubmit the improved version of each assignment once, assuming you have submitted each of them on time, i.e. on due date (as above).
Narrative Description of the Course: Total quality management is an approach to business involvement led by the theme of quality. It involves the continual satisfaction of customer requirements at the lowest cost by harnessing the efforts of everybody in the company. Quality assurance means sustaining a system which prevents defects. This includes quality control and quality engineering. Quality control means establishing and maintaining specified quality standards of products / processes / or a service; quality engineering is the establishment and execution of tests to measure product quality and adherence to acceptance criteria.
This course explains the importance of sustainable, lean six-sigma, reducing variation for the purpose of implementing total quality in every process (at every level) of the enterprise. Furthermore, IE673 represents a sustainable, lean, modular product, process, service design, implementation and management approach to the introduction of various TQM methods, tools, technologies and their engineering project management issues within a variety of small, medium and large enterprises.
So, is this marketable knowledge for graduates? And what are the job opportunities in lean six-sigma quality and in project management? (These are two important areas, that rely on fundamental subjects discussed in this course.) The answer is: ALL GOOD!
As examples, USA executive on-line education programs claim (May, 2010), that six-sigma quality knowledge with good communication skills, leadership skills, analytical and risk analysis skills, as well as good project management skills claim a potential of a $140,000.00 (USD) annual salary!
As often defined "quality is the overall level of product /process / service excellence". It is also quite obvious that without similarly "excellent people, equipment and software" , or in other words, resources, one cannot provide the desired level of quality at the predefined cost. According to Jaguar Cars, "Quality is making money out of satisfying customers. Quality comes first". John F. Akers, former CEO of IBM, defines quality as follows: "Quality is everyone's job. Quality is essential merely to stay in the race". Others claim that: "Quality means putting the customers first every time".
Dr. Akimasa Kurimoto, Yamazaki Machinery (Japan) states that: "The success or failure of the new business strategies is, in general, attributed to the capability of the company to create its culture in ways that would make the new business strategy work. Quality is a fundamental management philosophy, causing cultural change of mind and attitude. Total quality management is the prime corporate business strategy to facilitate the best blend of management and working practice".
Lucas Engineering & Systems (UK and USA), defines Total Quality as follows: "The term Total Quality of Performance relates not just to the technical quality of products but rather to the quality of performance of every function in an organization. This is in recognition of the fact that the quality and cost of a product depend upon its design, the lead times and the reliability of the processes operated by many contributory departments (both manufacturing and administrative), the choice of materials and the effectiveness of supporting structures".
Mike Robson, international (US-based) quality expert, claims that: "We all want quality and excellence. Excellence is a journey, not a destination. There is no magic to quality". The conclusion is that every manufacturing (and other) enterprise needs a Total Quality system which is:
The main problems when applying traditional quality management philosophy include the following:
On the contrary, in this class we follow a modern, progressive, and simultaneously preventive thinking; and even more, a sustainable green approach: this is because Total Quality Management involves every person, aspect and machine (i.e. product, process, control and resource) of the organization, it requires a total commitment. It is not a quick "test and fix" approach.
It is a preventive project management system designed into every aspect of the World Class Product / Process Design, Civil Engineering, Construction, Manufacturing and Service enterprise, including product design, manufacture, management, administration and others. In accounting terms modern TQM is costing less than conventional quality systems do, because they can and do prevent failures! (No more recalls? Is this really possible? ... and how much less expensive is that?... and what if a metro station was poorly designed and built for around $500 million, then it has flooded and now it has to be 'reworked' costing 'only' an extra $600 million? Is this acceptable? ... I don't think so... because this is poor quality design, construction and project management... and almost everybody looses... but guess who doesn't? Remember: this course is about REAL world engineering management... we are as open as possible on how to continuously improve...)
In order to learn the above outlined principles, methods, tools and technologies, the course is supported by a comprehensive eLearning package (for both live, hybrid and distance learning students these packs are the same in structure and content). An eLearning pack typically contains a comprehensive 600+ page long browser readable, digital eTextbook, we call it the digital and interactive multimedia 3D eBook, some printed material, and other web-browser readable, open source 3D interactive multimedia, digital videos, magazines, DVDs, CDs, USB sticks, and others. (These represent the collaborative companies; pls. see Assignment 0 for more on this topics.)
The eLearning Packs contain real-world research and industrial case studies, as well as open source, professional active code and spreadsheets, that the students can customize when developing their assignments with their own data. (PLease note, that open source does NOT mean, that you can break the USA / international copyright law and put an entire 3D eBook DVD, or a video on the web !... even if it is going to be on your own server!!!!!) You may of course customize the speardsheets and submit them as your assignments on your webpages with proper credits given. That is great, because you can design and solve your own problems in every assignment! (Freedom?)
The fundamental goal of TQM and TQC (Total Quality Management and Control) is to program, measure and keep process variability under control. During our studies in this course we discuss several methods, tools and technologies to achieve this goal. One of these methods is identified as six-sigma. In order to give an introductory-level example of our approach, the figure below illustrates the mathematical versus the industrial interpretation of six-sigma.
(When reviewing this figure don't forget to play our short sample video, hot-linked to this figure. This is only a short, small size video, because it is run from the server over the Internet. In the eLearning Pack you'll find several resources with pro-quality, full length video and multimedia content, including 3D videos and animations!)
To summarize, the methods taught in this course are relevant not just to quality project management, as applied to civil and construction engineering, design, manufacture, test of products, but to a large variety of services too, because they reduce development costs, improve working capital management, and increase customer satisfaction by offering powerful methods and even software tools. (Note, that in the civil and construction engineering management fields the dimensional tolerances, the materials and the methods, tools and technologies might be different than in the precision aerospace or automotive industries, nevertheless the goals are the same... and this course highlights and explains many of these common goals!)
Fundamentally this means waste reduction, and optimization, therefore lean. If coupled with sustainable green methods, then we can be truly pleased with the results because th eimprovements will last for a long time.
Advanced, sustainable green, high quality design and manufacturing is used in all areas of manufacturing, including product and process design, control, fabrication, test, assembly, disassembly, and remanufacturing / recycling. (Note, that manufacturing here also means pharmaceutical packaging, electronic assembly, and other manufacturing, fabrication, production processes.)
In terms of green design and manufacturing sustainability we consider an eco-friendly state, or process that can be maintained over time, for a very long time.
Also, the ability of an ecosystem to maintain ecological advanced manufacturing processes and functions, biological diversity, and productivity over time. Furthermore, it encompasses the concept of meeting present manufacturing needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.
In other words, the characteristic of green, sustainable advanced manufacturing is being able to coexist with another system indefinitely, without either system being damaged by toxic waste or any other process. Sustainable green manufacturing also emphasizes that the creation of wealth within the community considers the wellbeing of both the human as well as natural environments, and is focused on the more complex processes of development rather than on simple growth or accumulation only.
Upon completing this program of study the candidates will be able to understand and apply TQM Engineering, and related management methods and tools with a strong sustainable six-sigma and green engineering focus.
Why is the course needed?
There are many methods and solutions to innovate and develop new products and processes, to cut down waste, to green, and to improve an organization, a design office, a manufacturing enterprise, a product, or a process. One major discipline is Lean Six-sigma Total Quality Management.
There is no doubt that modern Total Quality Management sounds impressive, but it is also expensive, because it aims at perfection in every aspect of the organization. On the contrary, many large and small companies claim that lean six-sigma total quality is a business strategy. It is "a matter of life or death"... and if you consider the importance of the environment, then even more so... According to Harold Geneen, of ITT, USA, "Quality is not only free, it's our most profitable product line".
But how can this be true ? As a simple and quick justification process, think for a moment of the fact that following the traditional quality management philosophy, the fewer the faults, the higher the cost, whereas applying our progressive total quality approach, the fewer the faults, the lower the cost (not to mention the possibility of the cost of a major recall!)
In other words, modern Total Quality Management means:
It is essential to understand that none of the progressive TQM methods we teach in this class work in practice unless they are applied to all levels of the enterprise, including all processes, the internal, as well as external supply chains. A modern company today is part of a global supply chain. As many examples have shown if just one segment of this supply chain breaks down because of poor quality, the entire system collapses (e.g. Chinese led paint, Chinese milk poisioning, Toyota recalls).
TQM methods and the quality culture has to be introduced gradually and should be managed by people who understand and support the principles, know how to communicate on an international basis, how to deal with co-workers, and know the methods / tools too. It is a complex process, and a major implementation challenge! (It should be noted, that this quality culture is key in every industry's project management / engineering management activities!)
TQM has its best chance if implemented in a modern, digital factory, in which every major process is monitored, based on analytical, quantitative and computational methods... (you can read more on this interesting topic...)
To summarize, modern quality project management addresses the whole enterprise, including products, processes, controls and resources, or in another domain humans and machines, the business systems, product design, process planning, manufacturing planning, the shop floor, packaging, maintenance, and service, including multiple life-cycles, via the internal, as well as the external supply chains.. yes all of it!
For Whom is the Course Intended?
I have designed this course for Graduate / Master of Science programs in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Engineering Project Management, IE (Industrial Engineering) in EM (Engineering Management), in Mechanical Engineering, MnE (Manufacturing Systems Engineering), Pharmaceutical Management, Project Management, as well as an elective course for Graduate Mechanical Engineering, Graduate Computing Science and Graduate Environmental Engineering students.
Note, that we follow a modular, novel object - oriented (OO) approach that makes the topic very adaptable to a variety of different environments. This approach has been successfully tested and run for several years at NJIT as well as on a consulting basis at large companies, such as IBM, Ford Motor Company, Jaguar Cars, GM/EDS, Boeing, Raytheon, and others.
Furthermore, the course is aimed at graduate research students, professional engineers and managers working in industry, wishing to learn about new project management methods, tools and technologies and management methods, for the purpose of improving products, processes and services.
Live, Hybrid and Distance Learning Students purchase their educationally priced eLearning Packs from the NJIT Bookstore (pls. contact the NJIT Bookstore over the web). PLEASE NOTE, that all of the eLearning Pack materials are copyrighted and therefore are for individual student use only. (As an example, it is illegal for you to purchase the educationally priced package from the NJIT bookstore as an NJIT student, and then send it to your father's business in India for professional / commercial consulting purposes to improve his factory... as it happened in the past... please avoid breaking the USA Copyright Laws.)
On the other hand, you can put selected objects (e.g. images, or video clips, or others up-to-10% of the total content) with proper references to the original material (in the usual format: 'Courtesy of xyz, published by ABC...) into your assignments and post them onto your website, but it is ILLEGAL for you to put an entire eBook,or en entire video (as an example) onto your webpage, or server. I mention this here because some students break the USA copyright law and therefore can get into major legal trouble with publishers; something I do not want you to experience, because it is expensive and nasty... the USA legal system is one of the best in the world...
Every eLearning Pack architecture is the same, but in terms of actual content is different, because it is customized and updated every semester. This is what you'll find in an eLearning Pack for this course, this semester:
PLEASE note, that all above is for your personal educational non-profit use only, not to be put on the Internet or any servers, or make copies, else you might get into serious trouble with the USA copyright law... THANKS!
The eLearning Packs will give us a great opportunity to work on projects in collaboration with the Four Selected Companies (also in your eLearning Pack). PLEASE NOTE, that each eLearning pack is different, nevertheless the methods we use are the same. Each student should therefore use one customized eLearning Pack.
Also note, that you will need a multimedia PC (approx. 900 MHz, with a DVD drive and 800x600 resolution screen min., 1024x768 or better screen preferred), a link to the Internet and email, as well as a not older than yr. 1998 version of MS-Excel in your machine. PLEASE NOTE, that as a student at NJIT, you are entitled to huge educational software and hardware discounts, FREE software licenses, therefore make sure that you take advantage of the huge educational discounts offered. (See the NJIT's bookstore, as well as contact NJIT's computing help desks at http://njit.edu for further details).
Reading for a degree... A few words about 'reading for a degree'... for hundreds of years, academics and other professionals all over the world emphasized the importance of reading for a degree. Here is a short list of excellent resources that will help you to deepen your understanding in the subject area of this course. Please read more on the subject if you can:
There are any excellent traditional paper-based text books on Project Management, including the following (http://www.amazon.com/Best-Books-on-Project-Management/lm/3D2E9BJZU2PHM):
Schedule: A semester at NJIT is typically 15 weeks long. (Note, that Summer semesters are streched longer; pls. see the NJIT web site for accurate dates in each semester.) You have to complete and submit 6 assignments and teh Midterm on time (see them below in detail). There is no final examination, the course is assessed based on the 6 assignments (0 to 5 and an open book Midterm; see below in detail). Since each eLearning Pack is different in content, each of you work with me on different assignments, nevertheless everybody will bel using the same methods base (explained in detail in the eTextbook, a.k.a the eBook).
All assignments should be in electronic format (i.e. email me a full URL within an email). If there is something not clear, please email, or make an appointment and see me. I am keen to help, but please do not ask me to act as a computer and read the syllabus for you... THANKS! Note, that in the summer session it is important to leave enough time to arrange a face-to-face meeting if necessary. Obviously I answer emails 7 days a week, including vacation days, unless I am away and have limited or no access to the Internet. Then we have to wait a bit; hopefully not too long...
Class 1/ NJIT Week 1: (Note that class numbers correspond to the semester week numbers at NJIT and this is just a relative scale for planning purposes. The due dates are calendar day accurate and should be followed. In the summer session you can plan for a double length period, therefore each week becomes two weeks... this gives you more time to study...) Topics covered; pls. read the eBook and watch the videos in the eLearning Pack. Introduction and overview of the entire course as well as the subject: What is quality project management? Why do we need project management / engineeirng management, and what are the main drivers? Project management in a traditional and in a modern design and manufacturing, and service - oriented enterprise. Project management for civil engineers and construction managers. An overview of the course, the eLearning Pack, and student requirements analysis (i.e. what students would like to learn whilst studying in this course). Engineering management focus on how to find and reduce quality-related waste, and how to create models, that are analytical, quantitative and computational, as well as have a chance of getting implemented in an enterprise. An overview of modern TQM knowledge documentation and knowledge management methods and issues; An overview of the assignments in this course, and a discussion on what the students have to accomplish to pass this course with a high grade. What is green and what is sustainable lean and green?
The best thing you could do at this stage is to quick-read your entire eBook on DVD-B(yes!), as well as see the videos in DVD-V. This will give you a very good feel what we'll be learning in this course... then we'll re-visit almost each topic in more detail... (15 weeks is only 15 weeks but you'll have all the material to read and study further... no need to stop!)
Student Activities (this is what you should do to get an 'A' in this class, and most importantly learn the subject):
Class 2 / NJIT Week 2 Part 2: See all teh videos in DVD-V. Get a feel of what they are trying to communicate... some of them are short clips, slide show movies, or longer videos. They all have an engineering / project management focus on how to find and reduce quality project management-related waste; and how to create new project management models and solutions, that are analytical, quantitative and computational, as well as have a chance of getting implemented in an enterprise.
Please read Chapter 1 and Appendix A in the eBook.
Assignment 0: Submit by email as an attached Word file (one file please), or PDF, or even better: on the web (if you have your company web-page you have created already): Both live and DL students email their assignments to the instructor describing the way their own virtual company (i.e. the 5th company) will collaborate with the 4 companies (to be found in your customized eLearning Pack, represented by either CDs, DVDs, printed material, or USB sticks, brochures, journals, or others), and develop TOGETHER a new quality product, process, or service, that is Sustainable and Green. You can find useful info on what this means here:
http://www.cimwareukandusa.com/All-Green/Ranky-GreenEngineering.html
Note: Your product / process, or service you plan to develop MUST be quality project management focused and you have to spell out these aspects, as well as the Sustainable and Green aspects explicitly, item-by-item, clearly! (Note, that you'll see plenty of suggestions for this in Chapter 1 in teh eBook!) This is also a good time to start to set up your own webpage... you can use any server / software you like; NJIT offers you FREE webhosting. NJIT's solution will also enable you later to add .xls files, and active code (much better than some free commercial solutions...). As an alternative, you might want to get a pro. service and pay for it, or try something FREE from the web, like www.tripod.com (my students tell me it is OK, I am not sure, I have NOT tested it myself). Please DO NOT password your site and make sure they have NO LINK errors!
Include your
To help you even more, these are the detailed steps you should take to complete Assignment 0.
PLEASE address EACH point, else you'll loose grade points:
New feature of this course: grade your own assignment and let me know why you have given yourself the particular grade. The reason why I am asking you to do this is because unfortunately some of you miss a lot in every assignment... by having to grade yourself, hopefully you'll recognize this issues, follow the syllabus and submit a proper assignment... In Assignment 0 it is a go/no go!
Typical Mistakes: Many bits are missing from the above list; incomplete submission. Please note, that I won't be able to act as your computer and read word-by-word what is required of the above list... sorry, this is a grad. course... we are over that age... (Note, that this statement applies to ALL assignments and I won't repeat it again...) In TQM you must pay attention to detail... important!
Classes 3, and 4 / NJIT Week 3 and / NJIT Week 4.
Read the case study oriented (CIMpgr) articles and see the OO process model examples. (There is a good overview in the 3D eBook, plus there are several templates you can use). You’ll grasp it quickly. You can draw these diagrams with any simple 2D drawing tool, on PCs maybe best with VISIO, or CORAL Draw, or PowerPoint, or ADOBE Illustrator, and OmniGraffle on the Mac, or others. Please note, that the templates in the eBook are in the latest Visio version. Visio is available FREE from the MS website for a limited time, or FREE from NJIT for longer. Read Chapters 3, 4 and 5 in the TQM eBook.
PLEASE do NOT send me Visio source files. Treat me as a global collaborator. I have the web and Excel... and MS-Office... Email me a webpage URL with your assignment in that web page, as described above. The process models (i.e. the diagrams) should be hyperlinked to the web page. During the last few semesters I have seen a new disturbing trend in that some students did not draw any new process steps using my templates; they have simply kept my templates EXACTLY as they are in the eBook, WITHOUT ANY additional info. or innovation... Kindly note, that you must add your own work to the templates. Copy-paste carries zero grade points!. Sorry, I am really strickt on this because I would like to make sure, that you learn something really useful in this class.
Submit by Assignment No. 1: A Project Management Process / System Modeling Method (Please read Chapter 2 in the eBook) (After having submitted this to me I’ll make comments on it that you suppose to consider and then rework your assignment).
Also note, that as of 2008 this assignment became very important for pharmaceutical engineers and management too. Process modeling was always crucially important in hi-tech industries producing digital computers, cameras, aerospace parts, automobiles, etc. The pharma. industry has recently realized, that they should catch up and deploy Process Analytical Technologies (PAT). To do this you need advanced process modeling. (This is because of the huge quality improvement, as well as saving opportunities... In my view they are still many years behind but we want them to catch up and learn new ideas and methods!)
Note, that most projects fail because they have either no reliable procedures, or they have, but people don't follow them... therefore this assigment is critically important, and is ISO compliant (even if you have never seen anything like this; sorry...)
Please follow this structure for your assignment:
New feature of this course: grade your own assignment and let me know why you have given yourself the particular grade. The reason why I am asking you to do this is because unfortunately some of you miss a lot in every assignment... by having to grade yourself, hopefully you'll recognize this issues, follow the syllabus and submit a proper assignment...
Typical Mistakes: Why am I loosing grade points in this assignment?
Classes 5 and 6 / NJIT Week 5 and 6
More on Project Management challenges and solutions... please read the eBook, in particular Appendix A again. Also watch the Videos again in your eLearning Pack.
In particular, in Appendix A focus on the following:
Some Important Project Management Trends, Challenges and Solutions in Civil and Construction Engineering... ; Project Management for Civil and Construction Engineers...; Project Timeline / Phases of a Typical Civil Engineering Project...; Project Lifecycle Matrix...; Building Information Modeling (BIM)...; Building Information Modeling and Generative Design...; Integrated Project Delivery...; Specific Construction Industry Challenges and Solutions...; The Role of Project Managers...; Predictive Analytics...; Predictive Models, and others.
Student Activities: Think how the above principles, methods, tools, challenges and solutions would shape your company (the 5th company).
Submit by (see above) Assignment No. 2: Project Management Challenges & Solutions: Read Appendix A (again) in the eBook (in your eLearnPack)...
Please note, that the best assignments show evidence that the student has worked through the learning material provided in the eLearning Pack, therefore feel free to incorporate digital images, text and even video clips or 3D VR objects provided in the eBook into your assignment; nevertheless never forget to credit the source of such objects in the bibliography.
Typical Mistakes: Why am I loosing grade points in this assignment?
MIDTERM: This is a take home exam (max. 20%): Basically you have three choices (chose one of the following three): MIDTERM - A: Based on the eBook and in particular on Appendix A in the eBook: Building Information Modeling (BIM), or chose MIDTERM - B: Pollution by the Construction Industry.., or MIDTERM - C: Costs Associated with Constructed Facilities with All Methods and Tools as Described in Appendix C. Please note, that I am keen to see the method; the analytical approach, as well as practical examples. The examples must be yours, but the methods can be explained as existing methods.
Each MIDTERM paper you write should be about 1800-2000 words. Note, that I value quality, versus quantity!
In more detail:
Submit by Assignment No. 3: Project Management Challenges & Solutions: Read Appendix B (again) in the eBook, as well as Chapter 5 (in your eLearnPack)...
Please note, that the best assignments show evidence that the student has worked through the learning material provided in the eLearning Pack, therefore feel free to incorporate digital images, text and even video clips or 3D VR objects provided in the eBook into your assignment; nevertheless never forget to credit the source of such objects in the bibliography.
Typical Mistakes: Why am I loosing grade points in this assignment?
The Lean Six Sigma Methodology for project management in Design, Manufacturing, Assembly and Service. An overview. Read Chapters 1 and 2 in the eBook again, and watch the videos on DVD-V again.
The importance of risk assessment in pollution control. Read Appendix B again.
Classes 11 and 12 / NJIT Week 11 and Week 12
The Importance of quality in management, in service industries. Quality communication skills, education, training and TQM knowledge documentation and knowledge management methods and tools; Quality Ethics, TQM culture, benchmarking and globalization; Continuous quality improvement methods and examples.
Submit by Assignment No. 4: The focus of this assignment is: Process Failure Risk Analysis, as Part of our lean six-sigma toolset; In this assignment use our PFRA/DFRA (Process Failure Risk / Disassembly Failure Risk Analysis) Method and Tool; meaning the same Read Chapter 4 in the eBook.
To see an Industrial example, watch the Videos in your eLearning Pack.
Typical Mistakes: Why am I loosing grade points in this assignment?
Class (It's almost over... just a few days left...) Based on your OWN experiences read Appendicies A, B and C again and see how you could have done better.
Class 14 / NJIT Week 14: Continuous quality improvement methods are key t project management. Read the remaining Chapters in the eBook.
Please note again, that you can resubmit the improved version of each assignment, assuming you have submitted each of them on due date (as above) as part of the LAST assignment, i.e. Assignment 5. Please email me the improved version of your assignments, if applicable, with the last assignment together, NOT earlier than that. Thanks!
Submit by Assignment No. 5: This is a critically important assignment because you have to show me all the good methods, tools, principles, and content that you have learned in this semester in my class... Are you an 'A' or a 'B' or a '?'... student? (max. 30%) Resubmit the improved versions of Assignments 1 to 4, as well as the Midterm... More Project Management Challenges & Solutions: Read Chapters 6 and 7, as well as Appendix C in the eBook...
Class 15: LAST CLASS!!!! Assignment Reviews / Discussions over the web this Week! We'll discuss any questions you have.
August 8, 11.59 pm = ABSOLUTELY THE LAST DAY TO SUBMIT any assignments! All submissions MUST be electronic = by email / with a web URL in it; NOT several separate files please; I cannot accept several separate files, sorry, this is the 21st Century... we live in a digital age...
Schedule and due dates: As above. The total course duration is 15 weeks. We don't have a Midterm exam. All assessments are based on assignments and student activities described in this syllabus.
We will have a one or two hybrid classes when you don't have to come to school (live students). Students will be required to complete each assignment. Assignments totaling 100% max.
Grade "A" for this class requires min. 90% total. Thank you for helping me to be able to help you! Your success is my success too!
One more time, the NJIT Grade Scale:
90-100 = A
85-89 = B+
80-84 = B
75-79 = C+
70-74 = C
60-69 = D
0-59 = F
Laboratory Development Review for Grad. Classes (Ranky, December 2006)
I would like to introduce several laboratory activities to my graduate classes, and therefore I am asking you the following: (Please rate 0 to 10, 10 being the most important / agree, AND please comment if you can! THANKS!)
Q1. Would you like to have our classes in a lab-setting? (i.e. the class and the lab is one integrated whole, as in a studio, with computers, equipment, demos, nice chairs and tables all in one, in a large room)?
100% stated: yes, absolutely no question about that...
Q2: Do you think automated inspection methods and tools are important? (e.g. machine vision, sensors, etc.)
Over 95% stated yes, and rated 10
Q3: Do you think rapid prototyping and rapid manufacturing to achieve quality products and processes is important?
Over 80% stated yes, and rated 10
Q4: Do you think digital design and digital manufacturing (PLM, Product Lifecycle Management) in the TQM context is important?
Over 80% stated yes, and rated 10
Q5: Do you think automation, sensors, robots, in-process inspection to secure zero defect production is important?
Over 95% stated yes, and rated 10
Q6: Do you think medical engineering / pharma. quality process demos are important?
Over 80% stated yes, and rated 10
Q7: Do you think design for quality, design for safety, illustrated with real-world labs. is important?
Over 95% stated yes, and rated 10
Q8: Do you think lean design, manufacture, service, enterprise... is important?
Over 95% stated yes, and rated 10
It is over! Congratulations! You can now analyze and improve many products and services!
PLEASE save the TREES! Please DO NOT Print this syllabus. Use this web site to read it in this electronic format; it will be updated during the semester. Thank you!