EM

IE492 Engineering Management, Spring 2026 syllabus (version history: December 20, 2025)

ALL interactive multimedia learning resources in this course offered by Dr Ranky for NJIT students are FREE.

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

IE492, NJIT course: Engineering Management, provides a comprehensive analytical, as well as case-based, systems engineering-focused, practical introduction to engineering economics, decision making and project management for engineering students. The purpose of the course is to introduce engineering majors to the fundamental concepts of engineering economics and project management principles and decisions, enabling them to apply these principles to real-world engineering problems and situations anywhere in the world.

IE492 is a systems engineering focused course that aims to facilitate informed decision-making and provide a solid analytical foundation for future engineering management leadership roles, such as Chief Technical Officer (CTO), engineering director, director of operations, tech lead, engineering program manager, director of systems engineering, director of quality engineering, and others. In this course, there is also a very strong emphasis on US and international standards (ISO). These are well written and widely tested best practice documents that every professional engineer must follow. (This is why the contents of these documents are widely available on-line, and even generative AI programs use them. This is welcome and not considered to be plagiarism because they focus on validated technical facts that every professional engineer must know.)

This modern, progressive course is focusing on engineering economics and engineering project management related analytical and practical knowledge. It covers topics with analytical foundations as well as practical industrial examples and calculations, such as earned value management (EVM), pricing, interest rates, time value of money, cash flows, depreciation, benefit-cost-ratio, sensitivity and risk analysis (including AI methods and tools), capital financing, life-cycle costing, capital project estimation, identifying and analyzing various costs associated with a project, evaluating how changes in key variables and process flows affect project outcomes and assessing the potential for loss or gain, economic feasibility analysis, depreciation, Life-Cycle Costing (LCC), analyzing the total cost of a product or project over its entire lifespan, the 360 costing and engineering management / project management view, the entire project life cycle, from initiation to closeout, solid analytical methods to avoid project failures and cyberthreats, modern project management methods, such as lean, agile, AI and ML (Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning) supported engineering project management methods, analytical requirements and risk analysis, object-oriented layered process modeling, web-based knowledge documentation and knowledge management skills, effective presentation skills, and others. Furthermore, it includes sound analytical methods and tools too to work with critically important process flows, key performance indicators (KPIs) and quantified metrics for tracking project progress.

This course employs a mix of several open-book student assignments and several interactive class presentations performed individually, as well as in teams, to assess and reinforce student learning. Students are expected to be able to use MS PPT, MS Excel and a project management software tool free from the NJIT IT library or free from the Internet, such as monday.com or similar software, for assignments and exercises.

The course is also supported by Dr Ranky's large interactive multimedia, a 100% digital and free (for his NJIT students) eLearning Library, that includes novel interactive full length videos, PPTs with significant interactive multimedia content, customizable spreadsheets for analytical calculations and simulations, optional customizable and executable pseudo code for more in-depth analytical calculations, digital templates, and a browser readable interactive multimedia eBook. This course equips engineering students with the essential knowledge and skills needed for successful project management and economic decision-making within an engineering context in small, medium and large industries and operations anywhere in the world.

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

IMPORTANT note: Engineering management is a complex subject and therefore the goal in this class is to prepare you for real-life problems and their possible solutions. The aim is not just for you to get a good grade, but also to make sure that you learn many really useful analytical, as well as practical skills about EM and related subject. Those of you who will study for gaining new knowledge and therefore become professional problem solvers will have a very good chance of succeeding in real life.... Yes, this is a very long syllabus, nevertheless prepares you for professional real-life in this class...

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

Engineering management is a critically important body of knowledge

As you will be able to understand and learn from our detailed discussions in this course, engineering management is a critically important body of knowledge for university-level engineering students as well as for practicing professional engineers in industry because it bridges the gap between technical expertise and organizational leadership. This enables engineers to transform innovative ideas into viable, real-world solutions.

While traditional engineering focuses on design, analysis, and problem-solving, engineering management teaches how to apply these skills effectively within the constraints of time, cost, quality, risk, and human resources.

In the real world, even the most technically brilliant solutions and projects can fail without proper planning, budgeting, scheduling, team coordination, and strategic decision-making. (Actually, over 70% of projects fail...) Engineering management equips students and future professional engineers with the tools to manage complex projects, lead multidisciplinary teams, ensure regulatory compliance, control quality, and make data-driven decisions using methods such as cost-benefit analysis, risk assessment, systems thinking, and operations research.

It integrates principles from business, economics, systems engineering, and human factors into engineering practice. This combination is essential in industries like aerospace, manufacturing, energy, robotics, and healthcare technology, where engineers are expected not only to design and build but also to manage budgets, meet client expectations, and improve productivity.

Additionally, in today’s global, competitive, and sustainability-focused environment, engineers must optimize the use of resources, streamline processes using lean and Six Sigma methodologies, and develop innovative solutions that align with both technical feasibility and business viability.

Engineering management also prepares students for leadership roles, giving them the strategic thinking and communication skills needed to lead teams, present ideas to stakeholders, and align engineering objectives with organizational goals. It fosters a mindset of continuous improvement and systems integration, empowering students to look beyond isolated problems and view engineering challenges from a holistic, life cycle perspective.

As engineering becomes more interdisciplinary and digitally connected, knowledge of project management software, product life cycle management (PLM), supply chain coordination, and risk-based decision frameworks becomes indispensable. Without engineering management, even well-educated engineers may struggle to influence decisions, deliver successful projects, or progress into leadership roles.

Ultimately, engineering management transforms engineers into well-rounded professionals who not only innovate but also execute and lead effectively—skills that are increasingly demanded by employers and vital for solving society’s most complex challenges. For students aiming to make a lasting impact in the profession, becoming engineering directors and senior, ‘C’ level managers in industry and other organizations with a lot of freedom to create, learning engineering management is not optional—it is essential.

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

Engineering managers, especially those involved in cost engineering / costing complex engineered systems / establishing the cost structure and cost items of complex engineered systems, in particular in the age of AI and ML (Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning), face a range of challenges that can significantly impact the financial health and the success of a project.

These challenges often revolve around balancing cost reduction with other, competing project priorities and navigating the various levels of complexities inherent in engineering projects.

Let us list here some of the biggest challenges that cost engineers and engineering managers face:

• Scope definition and scope creep of projects. Clearly defining and managing the project scope is fundamental to accurate cost estimation. But this is not a simple task due to change. Changes or additions to the scope throughout the project (scope creep) can lead to budget overruns and delays.

• Uncertainty and volatility due to dynamic changes can affect projects hugely. Engineering projects operate in dynamic environments where uncertainty (lack of information) and volatility (rate of change) can impact costs. Factors like fluctuating material prices, changing regulations, and unexpected site conditions can make accurate cost prediction difficult.

• Technology adoption and innovation is a constantly moving target, in particular in the age of AI and ML (Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning), therefore affecting project cost. Keeping pace with rapidly evolving technologies, including software, hardware, and platforms, is crucial for efficiency and accuracy. However, adopting new technologies can require new machines, resources, have knock-on effect on various modules of the system, on skill requirements, training, and other related cost increases.

• Data quality and integration is often not accurate and not reliable, despite some AI and ML (Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning) support systems. Accessing and integrating accurate, complete, and reliable data from various sources (historical records, vendor quotes, etc.) is essential for robust cost estimation and analysis. Poor data quality or lack of integration can lead to inaccurate forecasts and misinformed decisions.

• Balancing cost reduction whilst simultaneously maintaining desired and competitive quality standards is a complex challenge. Striving for cost reduction is vital for profitability, but it must be balanced by maintaining high-quality standards. Compromising quality to cut costs can have negative consequences, such as customer dissatisfaction and reputational damage.

• Resource constraints and budget limitations, and even unexpected cost reduction initiatives often face constraints related to personnel and finances, making it difficult to implement necessary changes and improvements. Securing resources and funding may require demonstrating the potential cost savings and return on investment.

• Ethical standards, maintaining honesty, integrity, and transparency in all cost engineering activities is crucial for credibility and stakeholder trust is often challenging task since various cost items are difficult to dig up and evaluate accurately. Navigating ethical dilemmas and pressures in high-stakes environments can be challenging.

• Managing technical debt and innovation, in particular in the age of AI and ML (Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning), addressing technical debt (the cost of maintaining suboptimal systems) while simultaneously fostering innovation is a delicate balancing act for engineering managers.

• Communication and stakeholder alignment with clients, management, team members, etc. is often not smooth. These are essential for establishing shared understanding of scope, expectations, and priorities. Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, and cost overruns.

• Managing remote and distributed teams by coordinating and engaging with geographically dispersed teams requires robust communication channels and collaboration tools to foster cohesion and productivity.

As we can see, these challenges can be mitigated through various strategies, including adopting proactive planning approaches, implementing AI and ML (Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning) supported and integrated robust data management systems, leveraging technology and automation, fostering clear communication, and prioritizing continuous learning and professional development.

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

In this course, there is also a very strong emphasis on US and international standards (ISO). These are well written and tested best practice documents that every professional engineer must follow. This is why the contents of these documents are widely available on-line, and even generative AI programs use them because they search such data sets. This is welcome and not considered to be plagiarism because they focus on validated technical facts. These standards and definitions of facts include the following:

ISO 9001: Quality Management Systems (QMS): This standard focuses on establishing a robust QMS, Quality Management System to ensure consistent quality and enhance customer satisfaction. It is applicable across various industries and for certification too.

IATF 16949 stands for International Automotive Task Force 16949. IATF 16949 is a globally recognized quality management system standard specifically created for the automotive industry. It is based on the ISO 9001 standard but includes additional automotive-specific requirements. The standard aims to enhance the quality of products and processes within the automotive supply chain, focusing on continuous improvement, defect prevention, and waste reduction.

ISO 14001: Environmental Management Systems (EMS): This standard provides a framework for managing environmental impacts, managing waste, complying with regulations, and improving environmental performance.

ISO 45001: Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems (OH&SMS): This standard helps organizations manage OH&S risks, create safer workplaces, and prevent work-related injuries and illnesses.

ISO 31000: Risk management — Guidelines: This standard provides principles and guidelines for risk management, which can be applied to engineering projects to identify, assess, and mitigate risks.

Since the main ISO standard for medical device design and quality management is ISO 13485, it is extremely important for engineering managers to understand and follow. It is an internationally recognized standard that outlines requirements for a quality management system specifically for medical devices. It ensures devices are designed, manufactured, and distributed in a way that consistently meets both customer and regulatory requirements.

ISO/IEC 27001: This is the flagship standard for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving and managing information security.

IEC 62443: A series of standards specifically designed for securing industrial automation and control systems (IACS).

ISO 21500 Series: Project, Programme and Portfolio Management: This family of standards provides guidance on project, programme, and portfolio management. ISO 21500 offers general principles, while ISO 21502 provides more detailed guidance on practices. These standards, and others, align with the International Project Management Institute's Body of Knowledge (PMBoK).

ISO standards are valuable tools for engineering organizations to manage projects and operations effectively, leading to improved outcomes. They also offer gret opportunities to validate and defend decisions. It is important for companies to identify and implement the standards that align with their specific needs. The more we can learn about these standards-based definitions and technical facts the better we can reason in this domain as engineering managers.

Please note, that in this course we follow the technical terminology, definitions and logic of these standards. Also note, that students do not have to learn all these standards, just some key definitions and technical facts, as explained in detail in the teaching / learning resources in Dr Ranky's eLearning Multimedia Library.

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

This course prepares you for:

1. REAL PROFESSIONAL LIFE engineering management challenges, as well as for passing the

2. PMP (Project Management Professional) exam. / certification, and/or the

3. PMI's CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management) exam.

As the PMI, Project Management Institute, USA states: 'Globally, a gap between the demand for project management skills and the availability of talent continues to persist. This opens up a host of new job opportunities in project management-oriented employment (PMOE) for project professionals and all change-makers – those who, regardless of their role, are inspired and equipped to drive change. PMI identifies three reasons for the persistence of the talent gap. An increase in the number of jobs requiring project management-oriented skills. Higher demand for project professionals in emerging and developing countries due to economic growth. The rate of retirement from the workforce. The global economy needs 25 million new project management professionals by 2030. To close the talent gap, 2.3 million people will need to enter PMOE every year just to keep up with demand – this includes project managers and all change-makers.'

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

This course is assessed as follows:
6 major open book assignments with customized content by each student = 60%
6 social networking assignments (completed in teams but documented individually by each student)= 20%
During 15 weeks, including presentations /active participation in class= 20%

[Optional BONUS (see below: EM-36) = additional 10%]
Totaling: 100% + 10% = 110% max. (...to learn EM well for real-life, as well as to get an'A' in this class...)

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

LEARNING RESOURCES for this course include the following:

Ranky FREE Multimedia eBook (100% digital, on-line), FREE for Dr Ranky's NJIT students;

Ranky's FREE 100% digital Multimedia eLearning Library (for Dr Ranky's NJIT students) with videos, PPT presentation links, customizable templates, active code files in .XLS and other digital learning resources (100% on-line and available on Canvas and/or by email to be downloaded; depending on Canvas storage limits).

More recommended textbooks and scholarly reading include Schaum’s Outline of Theory and Problems of Engineering Economics, and Sepulveda, J., Souder, W. and Gottgfried, B., McGraw-Hill, Inc., 1984; The Standard for Project Management and A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge, PMBOK GUIDE - Seventh Edition (or later). Kerzner PM book (available from the NJIT library, or for purchase from the NJIT Bookstore).

Additional textbooks include, Gido, J. and Clements, J., Successful Project Management, 6th or 7th Edition, South-Western Publishing, 2009, 2012, 2015 (and later editions as available), Sepulveda, J., Souder, W. and Gottfried, B., Schaum’s Outline of Theory and Problems of Engineering Economics, McGraw-Hill, Inc., 1984 (and later editions as available).

Please note, that including the famos Kerzner PM book (ed. 7, or later; available from the NJIT library, or for purchase from the NJIT Bookstore), none of the above references were written in the very important and exciting AI/ML age; so incredibly important for our EM knowledge base, analytical methods, tools and technologies. This is why in this course we are relying on several eLearning and multimedia tools, that offer very progressive and significant AI/ML content and truly up-to-date knowledge about AI/ML in the EM context. Please note, that this is a novel feature of this course, including all assignments in this course, preparing our EM students for a real-life professional and successful future.

Other useful links in the NJIT library (pls. copy-paste the URLs into a browser):

Access NJIT’s McGraw Hill’s AccessEngineeringDatabase here:

https://www-accessengineeringlibrary-com.libdb.njit.edu:8443/

Engineering Project Management with login here:
https://www-accessengineeringlibrary-com.libdb.njit.edu:8443/search?query=engineering+project+management&items_per_page=25&scope=selection

TQM here: with login:

https://www-accessengineeringlibrary-com.libdb.njit.edu:8443/search?query=total+quality+management&items_per_page=25&scope=selection

PMP Project Management Professional All-in-One Exam Guide, 1st Edition with login:
https://www-accessengineeringlibrary-com.libdb.njit.edu:8443/content/book/9781260467475
Visual factory management with login here:
https://www-accessengineeringlibrary-com.libdb.njit.edu:8443/search?query=visual+factory+management&items_per_page=25&scope=selection

Quantitative risk analysis for engineerig management with login here:
https://www-accessengineeringlibrary-com.libdb.njit.edu:8443/search?query=quantitative+risk+analysis&items_per_page=25&scope=selection

Cybersecurity for digital factories and engineering management with login here:

https://www-accessengineeringlibrary-com.libdb.njit.edu:8443/search?f%5B0%5D=content_type%3ABooks&query=cybersecurity%20of%20digital%20factories&items_per_page=25&scope=selection

==============================================================
==============================================================

SUMMARY OF THIS COURSE. (Please see all details below; after this summary):
==============================================================
==============================================================

A general note regarding every assignment: please make sure, that your answer in every assignment and in every question has a strong analytical foundation, as well as a practical application. The analytical solutions in this domain include mathematical logic, mathematical equations, logical reasoning based on facts, an algorithm that can be repeated producing the same outcome, a technical system design level or similar diagram, pseudo code, and others.

The key here, as in every question you answer, is, that this is an engineering course, therefore a copy-pasted essay-style answer based on chatGPT or other AI tool is not enough… you must present facts and reason as a professional engineer because this will yield a defendable solution.

ASSIGNMENT 0: Ranky-IE492-A0: max. 10 points, about 2000 words and a technical illustration / diagram / screen-print of your own work
.....................................................................
RESOURCES FOR THIS ASSIGNMENT, include the following:
Kerzner PM book (ed. 7; available from the NJIT library, or for purchase from the NJIT Bookstore); Read Kerzner PM book: Chapters 1, 2 and 3.
Ranky FREE PM Multimedia eBook (on-line link emailed to you); Ranky FREE PM Multimedia Library with videos and learning resources (on-line links emailed to you)
.....................................................................
.....................................................................
These are the tasks you should complete in this assignment:
.....................................................................
.....................................................................
Ranky-EM-0: Review engineering management-focused videos (to learn about interesting and challenging projects in the real-world), and then set up your own company. Write a short summary on each video you have studied.
=====================================================================
=====================================================================

ASSIGNMENT 1: Ranky-IE492-A1: max. 10 points, about 2000 words and a technical illustration / diagram / screen-print of your own work
.....................................................................
RESOURCES FOR THIS ASSIGNMENT, include the following:
Kerzner PM book (available from the NJIT library, or for purchase from the NJIT Bookstore); Additional textbooks include, Gido, J. and Clements, J., Successful Project Management, 6th or 7th Edition, South-Western Publishing, 2009, 2012, 2015 (and later editions as available), Sepulveda, J., Souder, W. and Gottfried, B., Schaum’s Outline of Theory and Problems of Engineering Economics, McGraw-Hill, Inc., 1984 (and later editions as available).
Read Kerzner PM book: Chapters 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10.
Ranky FREE PM Multimedia eBook (on-line link emailed to you); Ranky FREE PM Multimedia Library with videos and learning resources (on-line links emailed to you)
.....................................................................
.....................................................................
These are the tasks you should complete in this assignment:
.....................................................................
.....................................................................
Ranky-EM-2: Some key engineering project management terminology and solutions.
Ranky-EM-3: Best practices for organizing and staffing the project office and team. How are you performing this in your own company?
Ranky-EM-4: Some key concepts and skills project managers must understand.
Ranky-EM-5: Modern project management modeling methods and principles
Ranky-EM-6: Earned Value Management (EVM) and other cost management methods for engineering management.
Ranky-EM-7: Best practice pricing strategies in engineering project management.
Ranky-EM-8: Best practice Change Management in engineering project management.
Ranky-EM-9: Best practice Project Closeout in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?
Ranky-EM-10: Best practice Project Teamwork in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?
Ranky-EM-11: Best practice to avoid project failures in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?
Ranky-EM-12: Best practice for project presentations in engineering project management
=====================================================================
=====================================================================

ASSIGNMENT 2: Ranky-IE492-A2: max. 10 points, about 2000 words and a technical illustration / diagram / screen-print of your own work
.....................................................................
RESOURCES FOR THIS ASSIGNMENT, include the following:
Kerzner PM book (available from the NJIT library, or for purchase from the NJIT Bookstore); Additional textbooks include, Gido, J. and Clements, J., Successful Project Management, 6th or 7th Edition, South-Western Publishing, 2009, 2012, 2015 (and later editions as available), Sepulveda, J., Souder, W. and Gottfried, B., Schaum’s Outline of Theory and Problems of Engineering Economics, McGraw-Hill, Inc., 1984 (and later editions as available).
Read Kerzner PM book: Chapters 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 and 20.
Ranky FREE PM Multimedia eBook (on-line link emailed to you); Ranky FREE PM Multimedia Library with videos and learning resources (on-line links emailed to you)
.....................................................................
.....................................................................
These are the tasks you should complete in this assignment:.
Note: [Opt... means optional. Complete these tasks if you want to learn more...] and become THE BEST EM!
.....................................................................
.....................................................................

[Opt. Ranky-EM-13: Best practice for Network Scheduling Techniques in engineering project management.] Note, that [Opt. means optional, not required in this course, but very useful knowledge.]
Ranky-EM-14: Best practice for Contract Management Techniques in engineering project management.
[Opt. Ranky-EM-15: Best practice for Learning Curve Techniques in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?]
Ranky-EM-16: Best practice for Pricing and Estimating Techniques in engineering project management
Ranky-EM-17: Best practice for Management Functions in engineering project management.
Ranky-EM-18: Best practice for Trade-off Analysis in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?
Ranky-EM-19-A: Flow charts in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?
[Opt. Ranky-EM-19-B: Data Flow Diagrams (DFD) in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?]
Ranky-EM-20: Graphical methods and tools in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?
Ranky-EM-21: Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT) in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?
Ranky-EM-22: The Critical Path Method (CPM) Technique in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?
[Opt. Ranky-EM-23: Mind maps in engineering project management / brainstorming. How are you performing this in your own company?]
Ranky-EM-24: Quality Function Deployment (QFD) customer requirements analysis (CORA) in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?
=====================================================================
=====================================================================

ASSIGNMENT 3: Ranky-IE492-A3: max. 10 points, about 2000 words and a technical illustration / diagram / screen-print of your own work
.....................................................................
RESOURCES FOR THIS ASSIGNMENT, include the following:
Kerzner PM book (available from the NJIT library, or for purchase from the NJIT Bookstore); Additional textbooks include, Gido, J. and Clements, J., Successful Project Management, 6th or 7th Edition, South-Western Publishing, 2009, 2012, 2015 (and later editions as available), Sepulveda, J., Souder, W. and Gottfried, B., Schaum’s Outline of Theory and Problems of Engineering Economics, McGraw-Hill, Inc., 1984 (and later editions as available).
Read Kerzner PM book: Chapters 17 and 12 and 20 again.
Ranky FREE PM Multimedia eBook (on-line link emailed to you); Ranky FREE PM Multimedia Library with videos and learning resources (on-line links emailed to you)
.....................................................................
.....................................................................
These are the tasks you should complete in this assignment:.
Note: [Opt... means optional. Complete these tasks if you want to learn more...] and become THE BEST EM!
.....................................................................
.....................................................................

[Opt. Ranky-EM-25: Pareto charts and analysis in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?]
[Opt. Ranky-EM-26: Control charts and analysis in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?]
Ranky-EM-27: Fishbone diagrams and analysis in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?
Ranky-EM-28: Visual Factory Management and analysis in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?
Ranky-EM-29: Root cause analysis in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?
[Opt. Ranky-EM-30: Lean six sigma analysis in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?]
Ranky-EM-31: Modern methods and analysis in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?
Ranky-EM-32: Best practice for ISO 9001 certification projects in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?
[Opt. Ranky-EM-33: Best practice for ISO 27001 certification projects in engineering project management.]
Ranky-EM-34: Why do projects fail in engineering project management? How are you performing this in your own company?

=====================================================================
=====================================================================

ASSIGNMENT 4: Ranky-EM636-A4: max. 10 points, about 2000 words and a technical illustration / diagram / screen-print of your own work
.....................................................................
RESOURCES FOR THIS ASSIGNMENT, include the following:
Kerzner PM book (available from the NJIT library, or for purchase from the NJIT Bookstore); Additional textbooks include, Gido, J. and Clements, J., Successful Project Management, 6th or 7th Edition, South-Western Publishing, 2009, 2012, 2015 (and later editions as available), Sepulveda, J., Souder, W. and Gottfried, B., Schaum’s Outline of Theory and Problems of Engineering Economics, McGraw-Hill, Inc., 1984 (and later editions as available).
Read Kerzner PM book: Chapters 15, 16 and 17.
Ranky FREE PM Multimedia eBook (on-line link emailed to you); Ranky FREE PM Multimedia Library with videos and learning resources (on-line links emailed to you)
.....................................................................
.....................................................................
These are the tasks you should complete in this assignment:.
Note: [Opt... means optional. Complete these tasks if you want to learn more...] and become THE BEST EM!
.....................................................................
.....................................................................

[Opt. Ranky-EM-35: ERP, Enterprise Resource Planning in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?]
Ranky-EM-36: Trade-off analysis in engineering project management
Ranky-EM-37: Best practice for managing innovative research projects in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?
Ranky-EM-38: Traditional project management as practiced and taught even just 20 years or even just 10 years ago must change for the better and therefore we must innovate in this field too! We must innovate all the time... How are you performing this in your own company?
Ranky-EM-39: Best practice to deal with human errors in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?
[Opt. Ranky-EM-40: Best practice human centered automation in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?]
Ranky-EM-41: Best practice AI, Artificial Intelligence for engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?
Ranky-EM-42: Best cybersecurity for engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?

=====================================================================
=====================================================================

ASSIGNMENT 5: Ranky-IE492-A5: max. 10 points, about 2000 words and a technical illustration / diagram / screen-print of your own work
.....................................................................
RESOURCES FOR THIS ASSIGNMENT, include the following:
Kerzner PM book (available from the NJIT library, or for purchase from the NJIT Bookstore); Additional textbooks include, Gido, J. and Clements, J., Successful Project Management, 6th or 7th Edition, South-Western Publishing, 2009, 2012, 2015 (and later editions as available), Sepulveda, J., Souder, W. and Gottfried, B., Schaum’s Outline of Theory and Problems of Engineering Economics, McGraw-Hill, Inc., 1984 (and later editions as available).
Read Kerzner PM book: Chapters 18, 19, 20 and 21. And also, the Appendices.
Ranky FREE PM Multimedia eBook (on-line link emailed to you); Ranky FREE PM Multimedia Library with videos and learning resources (on-line links emailed to you)
.....................................................................
.....................................................................
These are the tasks you should complete in this assignment:.
Note: [Opt... means optional. Complete these tasks if you want to learn more...] and become THE BEST EM!
.....................................................................
.....................................................................

Ranky-EM-43: Best practice documentation methods for engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?
Ranky-EM-44: Major changes in engineering project management during the past 10-20 years… How are you performing this in your own company?
[Opt. Ranky-EM-45: PD: Process Description (PD) methods and examples for engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?]
[Opt. Ranky-EM-46: DD: Data Dictionary definition in engineering project management. How are you performing this in your own company?]
Ranky-EM-47: Review video 7 of the remaining set of videos in Professor Ranky's multimedia library (the numbered on-line accessible video list with hyperlinks was emailed to you) and on each write a 300-350 word executive summary.
Ranky-EM-48: Review video 8 of the remaining set of videos in Professor Ranky's multimedia library (the numbered on-line accessible video list with hyperlinks was emailed to you) and on each write a 300-350 word executive summary.
Ranky-EM-49: Review video 9 of the remaining set of videos in Professor Ranky's multimedia library (the numbered on-line accessible Ranky-PM-50: Review video 10 of the remaining set of videos in Professor Ranky's multimedia library (on-line accessible).

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Weekly TASKS:
PLEASE read this syllabus carefully and prepare for next week.
See below what the requirements and topics are for the next assignment.
Please start to work on those. PLEASE note, that there is some redundancy
in this syllabus to make sure, that key aspects are not missed. by students..
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Please note, that as in all of my courses for the past 25+ years at NJIT I offer 14 hr a day, 7 days a week email, phone and even video conferencing support to help your educational process.

Please email me to ranky@njit.edu if you need help.

In the summer I might be traveling on research, therefore it might take a bit longer than the usual less than 24 hrs to respond. Thanks!

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

IMPORTANT note: if due to various NJIT gmail server issues, my NJIT offered ranky@njit.edu email address does not work, please use my super reliable Apple offered email address: cimware@icloud.com

Having sent an email to me, if you don't hear from me within a few days, you can assume, that I have not received your email. If this is the case, I am sorry, but since I cannot do anything about it, please send it again to the above email address: cimware@icloud.com

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

I agree, that this is a long and detailed syllabus, nevertheless it does answer/ explain over 90% of your questions, AND it prepares you for professional exams!. Please read it carefully! Thanks!

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

IE492 main topics include: Engineering Management, Project Management (EM-PM): Introduction to concepts of project management and techniques for planning and controlling of resources to accomplish specific project goals, including the deliverables, the set due dates and the budget constraints. While the focus is on technically oriented projects, the principles discussed are applicable to the management of any project. Topics include process quality, time, cost considerations, cash flow forecasting, financial and performance control, documentation.

This simultaneously analytical, as well as practical project management and project control course is suitable for a wide range of disciplines, including engineering, IT/IS and science-related project management. We also cover some aspects of cybersecurity and project collaboration security in our new era of risk-based project management.

This course prepares you for REAL LIFE engineering management / project management challenges, as well as for passing the, PMP (Project Management Professional) exam / cerification, as well as PMI's CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) exam.

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

This course is very helpful in getting a good engineering management / project management job, and achieving professional PMP (Project Management Professional) by the PMI (Project Management Institute, USA) and ASQ (American Society for Quality) lean engineering management, auditing and quality engineering related certifications too.

These professional industrial certifications are highly respected in the USA as well as world-wide in hi-tech, well paid jobs.

Some of the key engineering management / project management learning objectives of this exciting multidisciplinary course include the following:
• Defining all important engineering project management methods and terminologies.
• Determining if simple / complex project management tasks should be handled internally or with the help of an experienced consultant / project management professional.
• Deciding the key process steps / tasks and the best time to bring in a system integrator to help with simple / complex project management tasks in multiple, different industries (including construction management, IT/IS, software engineering, pharmaceutical / product / process design, service system design / management, manufacturing engineering management and others).
• Discovering project examples of do's and don'ts to minimize risk of project failures.
• Identifying if process rethinking / redesign / new approach / new implementation / re-alignment / adjustment is needed as part of the project, or if applying more expertise, and/or automation / software / IT / IS to the current process is enough.
• Distinguishing how project management positively influences technology selection.
• Understanding and actively practicing new engineering project management methods and some tools too.
• Understanding trends on system integration research as they relate to project management.
• Learning how to use the latest web-based concepts and some tools on how to document your work using the Internet, how to collaborate and solve problems in our digitally integrated world, that are based on simultaneously practical, as well as analytical concepts, methods, tools and technologies.

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

VERY IMPORTANT: NJIT Verification of Presence Procedure: This is an NJIT requirement. As stated by NJIT, each semester, including summer and winter, NJIT disburses millions of dollars of financial aid to students for payment of tuition and other expenses related to their education.

The U.S. Department of Education has very complex rules and regulations that govern the eligibility of students to receive aid as well as the eligibility of an institution to award and accept that aid. One such rule is that NJIT must verify that a student is present and attending classes in which she/he is registered before disbursing any financial aid to the student.

'Presence' is applicable to all students: live, as well as eLearning / distance learning students.
Presence is defined as attendance in a classroom setting or having participated in some form of academic activity during the semester.

An academic activity may be defined as, but is not limited to, submission of a quiz or homework, participation in an online chat discussing class topics (e.g. in this class our social networking discussions fall into this category; see detailed instructions in this syllabus below), reading and understanding the syllabus and starting to set up your web page for your assignments in this class (please see more in this syllabus), or submitting academic questions to the instructor that are related to the class, and perhaps not discussed in this syllabus.

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

Please note, that whenever you email me, I assume, that you have already read my Welcome! email, this course syllabus, as well as my social networking assignment related email.

Please note, that these are emailed to your NJIT registered email, as well as posted onto Canvas before the semester starts.

I send these emails out to all of you at least 3 times. Kindly ask you not to ask me to repeat sections for you from these documents. At this stage we should all assume, that you have read them before you are asking me any questions.

Of course if anything is not clear, I'll be happy to answer your questions anytime; just email me please (ranky@njit.edu).

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

PLEASE save the TREES and be sustainably lean and green!

Please DO NOT Print neither this syllabus, nor your homework assignments. 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!

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

Welcome to IE492:

Learn About Engineering 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 (available to you for FREE from Professor Ranky’s Multimedia Library).

Our purpose is to help you to reduce the industry's large number of project failures to zero, to improve quality project management in engineering management, architecture, civil engineering, in construction management, medical engineering, and in other related hi-tech product, process and service system design projects, including IT/IS and engineering management systems, to progress towards making your products, processes and services increasingly leaner and sustainably greener.

You'll learn generic principles, methods, tools and technologies in this class that apply to practically any project anywhere in the world.

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, IT/IS, science, and many other industries.

With the aid of advanced interactive multimedia, digital videos and analytical methods and tools, that every student receives FREE within their multimedia library, we go on virtual tours and analyze various design, manufacturing, quality, IT/IS 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 apply to virtually any size project, any industry, anywhere in the world. The multimedia libraries are customized and updated every semester. Also, there is a social networking component in the course to learn about quality project management challenges and solutions in our global economy.

In this course you will learn about setting up your own, individually designed virtual companies, about project management focused process modeling, customer requirements analysis, process failure risk analysis, continuous quality improvement, how to prepare for the PMP exam., and other useful concepts, with open source software tools / spreadsheets, and customizable system model templates.

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

Furthermore, in this course you will understand open Internet / web-based, 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 because it can reduce project failures to zero.

In each assignment in this class please focus on What Problems You Want to Solve and How? This will make you a more efficient, better, and also better paid professional.

You'll also learn about typical project management challenges and solutions, that organizations face (in 'normal', as well as in pandemic times...), including the following:
• Lack of available resources, meaning hardware, software, skilled team members, time and/or financial constraints.
• Lack of visibility in terms of resources, timely project health data, progress reports and status / accomplishments, remaining budget, and others.
• Rising costs, including labor, resources, equipment, hardware, software, consultants, and others.
• Major and tragic upsets, like the corona virus and related supply chain challenges.
• Inability to deliver consistent services due to a lack of resources, including the appropriate labor, resources, equipment, hardware, software, consultants, and others.
• Regulatory reporting demand changes. (As an example, consider a new FCC, or FDA regulation, or an EPA regulation or law that must be followed, and therefore the project must be changed.)
• Inadequate integration between the back office and the project team; this is a really serious challenge in particular in the case of international project management teams.
• Cybersecurity challenges, hacks and major IP theft.
• A dynamically changing, shrinking time-frame to complete the project. (As an example, management and/or clients often change direction and therefore projects must change dynamically too; this is often a huge challenge for all involved...)
• If accurate and timely data is not available, it is difficult / impossible to to determine the profit potential of new projects and price them accordingly.
• Also, market volatility makes it difficult to predict demand for new projects,
• Also some aspects of global cybersecurity and project collaboration security/ cybersecurity in our new era of risk-based project management, and others.

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

You'll also learn about typical pressures that an engineering manager experiences when managing projects; these include the following:
• Increasingly detailed project cost tracking by the project owners, and the customers. (This ties the project managers' hands in terms of allocating resources and cash promptly where it is needed and when it is needed.)
• Matching employee skill sets to project needs (considering all the dynamic changes a project typically goes through...)
• Managing changing project outcome expectations. (Note, that many projects fail not because they are not on time and budget, but because the goals have shifted away from what the customers / clients have originally perceived as the end result...)
• Globally distributed teams need enhanced collaboration, and many projects aren't ready for such sophisticated collaboration demands.
• Globally distributed teams, that are rapidly shrinking due to IP theft, major disasters like the corona virus and/or other threats and unexpected challenges in your supply-chain.
• Lack of visibility in terms of project history, and accurate project status. (If projects aren't professionally tracked and documented, valuable data is lost during the project period.)
• Many projects are still manually managed and tracked. Excessive manual paperwork clogs processes and makes it difficult to make educated decisions quickly, to perform any kind of trend analysis, and lead towards inaccurate or insufficient project reporting.
• Poor communication, understanding and misunderstanding of client expectations. (Many clients are unclear about their project needs and cannot communicate it well. Many are clear about their project needs but the project managers don't understand the requirements accurately because they are not relying on any formal methods, and/or because they are not subject area experts.)
• Various political, internal and maybe external pressures force a project to continue, that should be closed... even at a loss, to avoid larger losses down the road...

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

High quality, sustainable green civil and construction engineering, IT/IS, engineering, science and R&D project management represent the next huge challenge for all of us in project management! Quality project management in these industries is crucially important for all of us.

Unfortunately 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. (Yes, it is possible even if most textbooks claim that it is not...).

Please be absolutely clear about this: zero defect quality / 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 offers great business opportunities.
by

Paul G. Ranky, PhD
Full Tenured Professor (MIE and the NJIT IT/IS Program)
You can find out more about the Professor’s past and current research work and background at http://www.cimwareukandusa.com/aboutpgr.htm
You can also look me up on LinkedIn.

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

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 project assessment / data collection / audit briefings on a global basis.

These are ALL extremely important methods, tools and technologies for the project manager. Projects these days are typically complex and 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 analytical 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.

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

IMPORTANT NOTE: THIS APPLIES TO EACH ASSIGNMENT! If you are using an image / line diagram / video clip, or any other illustration in your assignments, then please note, that each image should have a caption, indicating the figure / image number, what it describes, and who has taken the image (i.e. the source of the image).

As an example, consider this: 'Figure 123: This image illustrates a broken cell phone due to human error (image by myself: Mr/Ms. ABC)'. If you are copy-pasting images / illustrations from the Internet, that has zero value, because those are not your original contributions!

Try to create your own illustrations, like 2D line diagrams, photos and video clips taken by your smartphone or other cameras; always... make it your own: no copy-pasting please!

Please note, that I would like to see many illustrations in your assignments, that you have created.

Nice, professionally done, good quality figures, pictures, line diagrams, even video clips, that are not copy-pasted from the book or the Internet, but created by you!

I hope you agree, that an engineering manager should be able to do this... this will help you in real life to create really pro-presentations and win!

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

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:
1 Set up his / her own (virtual) project management focused company,
2 Innovate,
3 Collaborate with a variety of other companies on a global basis (obviously in the virtual domain),
4 Design, run and control a simple web site on the open Internet (no restrictions),
5 Learn to read faster than the average,
6 Learn to write executive summaries,
7 Learn how to prepare for taking professional PMP certification exams, and learn really useful knowledge for real-life prosperity!
8 Absorb new and relevant information better and faster than the average,
9 Learn new analytical skills and customize quality project management, control, and other tools,
10 Learn multi-variable and multi-dimensional systems thinking, and optimization methods and tools,
11 Learn some basic sustainable engineering (i.e. civil, construction, design, manufacturing, quality, and other), lean and green concepts and solutions,
12 Learn to reason and draw conclusions based on facts,
13 Learn to document new knowledge on the web,
14 Improve his / her communication skills,
15 Learn the benefits of social networking,
16 Video conferencing, communication skills, and
17 Others.

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

IE492 is a simultaneously analytical, as well as practical course, preparing you for the real-world 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. It prepares you for real-life EM challenges, as well as for professional exams!

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 projects, 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. (We don't like polished textbook cases because they are not real...).

ALL interactive multimedia learning resources in this course offered by Dr Ranky for NJIT students are FREE.

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

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.'

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

Note, that this is a combined Welcome Letter and Course Outline for the distance learning class. Please read it carefully:

1. Read this syllabus carefully

2. Follow the requirements accurately

3. Do not copy from each other, or from the web (there are over 25,000+ student assignments on the web, all developed and documented by my students in my classes at NJIT!), because if you do so you will not learn the material presented

4. Keep the deadlines

5. Always do your best

6. PLEASE don't ask me to be your computer, that checks what is obvious, or reads the syllabus for you... ask me to help to truly learn, explore and innovate, and I will always help you!

7. Read your traditional PM textbook (Kerzner) and your very modern and progressive multimedia learning library (Ranky) contents, as follows: Kerzner: Project Management, Edition: 12th, ISBN: 978-1-119-16535-4 April 2017 848 Pages, Author: Kerzner, Publisher: John Wiley & Sons, Incorporated (This traditional PM textbook is also available as a PDF file. Neither the printed text, nor the PDF file has any active code, PPT slides, videos, .XLS files, simulations, or digital templates to customize / execute. It is a traditional textbook, that is widely used in PM education. Additional textbooks include, Gido, J. and Clements, J., Successful Project Management, 6th or 7th Edition, South-Western Publishing, 2009, 2012, 2015 (and later editions as available), Sepulveda, J., Souder, W. and Gottfried, B., Schaum’s Outline of Theory and Problems of Engineering Economics, McGraw-Hill, Inc., 1984 (and later editions as available).

8. The course also includes web-links to a FREE multimedia learning library, created by Professor Ranky for this course, with an interactive multimedia eBook, active code, educational real-world factory and demo videos, hi-res color images, PPT slides on selected topics (on Canvas), line diagrams, templates to customize, .XLS code with worked out examples and customizable templates, simulation code, videos, and others to learn about modern project management methods and tools.)

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.

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

Please Read This Syllabus Carefully; it is long and detailed bit it answers most of your questions... AND it prepares you for professional exams! 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. (Reading a set of rules and guidelines is part of every job. By reading this long and detailed syllabus you are preparing for this too!)

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

In every assignment in this course please focus on this: What problems do you want to solve and how? (If you learn this well, it will bring success for you!)

A typical mistake in this class is, that the students' answers are much shorter, slimmer and unstructured in comparison to what is required in the professional world.

This is not professional enough… therefore, please answer each assignment question with this in mind:

1. What does the question require me to analyze and then answer?
2. What existing solutions are there?
3. How can I search and then design a better solution that would work well in this case? (You can search ALL resources in the world: NJIT library, Internet, etc., anything that is legal.)
4. What analytical methods should I apply and how to solve the problem?
5. How could I test / validate my solution(s)?
6. What have others done in similar situations?
7. Is my solution better? Why?
8. How can I validate/ prove / defend the above?

This will make your writing more technical and more professional too… because it will be more innovative and more defendable too. BTW it is all explained in the syllabus and in the learning resources / lectures of this class in detail… please read them; I know some of you don’t read the details…

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

NJIT Academic Honor Code: Academic Integrity is the cornerstone of higher education and is central to the ideals of this course and the university. Cheating is strictly prohibited and devalues the degree that you are working on. As a member of the NJIT community, it is your responsibility to protect your educational investment by knowing and following the academic code of integrity policy that is found at: http://www5.njit.edu/policies/sites/policies/files/academic-integrity-code.pdf.

Please note that it is my professional obligation and responsibility to report any academic misconduct to the Dean of Students Office. Any student found in violation of the code by cheating, plagiarizing or using any online software inappropriately will result in disciplinary action. This may include a failing grade of F, and/or suspension or dismissal from the university. If you have any questions about the code of Academic Integrity, please contact the Dean of Students Office at dos@njit.edu.

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

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:
• Address professors and staff appropriately (no informal language, or first-name basis, like 'hi paul, how are you duin...')
• Correct grammar (all capital letters are not acceptable, neither SMS abbreviations)
• Correct name, meaning exactly the same name you have given to NJIT

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 my official 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 name and even change their emails a lot. Then if I miss them, or question this, this is their usual response: '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 else in 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...

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

In 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 delays and other problems...

Also, please note this: it is important for me to know your correct
1. Last Name
2. First Name
3. email Address
4. web URL of your assignments
Then I can look up your assignments on the web.

Please do not:
1. Change your name without letting me know
2. If you change your name, you also must change it in the NJIT system, else I cannot recognize your name change and therefore this results in zero grades
3. Do not use several different email addresses
4. Use the NJIT offered email address when you are communicating with me
5. Do not use an email address that responds to me with a 'Delivery to the following recipient failed permanently:’ note because then I cannot communicate with you!

Regards,
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
Email: ranky@njit.edu

Full Tenured Professor, NJIT
If the NJIT email system works you can email me at NJIT: ranky@njit.edu Please send your email again if you don't get an answer from me within 5 to 7 working days. Sometimes I am doing research in remote areas of the world, where there is no Internet yet, therefore please be patient in the summer. Normally, I answer emails 14 hours a day, 7 days a week, including weekends and vacation days, but if I am away on research and have no access to the Internet it takes a bit longer to respond.
In case of an emergency, including weekends and holidays, please email me. I look at my emails on my cellphone frequently, seven days a week, 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., but since as a full professor I am not paid a salary in the summer, I usually don’t spend time in the office.

My office hours for the summer semester will be occasionally available by appointment only, depending on NJIT's regulations

Find out more about the Professor’s past and current research work and background / some of his publications here: http://www.cimwareukandusa.com/aboutpgr.htm, and also on LinkedIn; just search for ‘Paul Ranky’. You can also look up his sustainable green engineering work and research on YouTube. His YouTube chanel is 'Paul Ranky'.

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

IMPORTANT NOTES TO ALL STUDENTS :

Please read this new syllabus carefully. If anything is unclear let me know by email: ranky@njit.edu

Please note, that I try to answer your emails 14 hrs a day, 7 days a week.

Yes, I agree, that this is a long syllabus, but it answers many of your questions.

About improving and resubmitting assignments: Please note, that each assignment must be submitted on time. There is only one resubmission option and that is within the framework of the last assignment, at the end of the course when you have to submit all your assignments again

PLEASE set up your own web page for your company, use a FREE web server, or your company's, or your own, or other solutions that work... (e.g. www.weebly.com is a user friendly and free solution). It is your choice what software you use, which service provider you chose, etc... PLEASE submit ALL your assignments 100% electronically.

IF your web page does not link due to a link error you get an automatic 0 grade for the assignment. If it is password secured, also, I cannot see your work, therefore cannot grade it.

==============================================================================
==============================================================================

Contents (IE492)

Schedule: A semester at NJIT is typically 15 weeks long, but the Summer semesters are usually double session long, like this course; pls. see the NJIT web site for accurate dates in each semester.

You have to complete and submit 6 assignments on time (see them below in detail). There is no final examination.

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 me, 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, 14 hrs a day, including vacation days, unless I am away on research and have limited or no access to the Internet. Then we have to wait a bit; hopefully not too long...

=====================================================================
ASSIGNMENT 0: Ranky-IE492-A0: max. 10 points, about 2000 words and a technical illustration / diagram / screen-print of your own work
=====================================================================
RESOURCES FOR THIS ASSIGNMENT, include the following:
Kerzner PM book (available from the NJIT library, or for purchase from the NJIT Bookstore); Read Kerzner PM book: Chapters 1, 2 and 3.
Ranky FREE PM Multimedia eBook (on-line link emailed to you); Ranky FREE PM Multimedia Library with videos and learning resources (on-line links emailed to you)
=====================================================================
DUE DATE: February 15, Midnight
============================

VERY IMPORTANT! Please make sure, that your answer in every assignment and in every question has a strong analytical foundation, as well as a practical application. The analytical solutions in this domain include mathematical logic, mathematical equations, logical reasoning based on facts, an algorithm that can be repeated producing the same outcome, a technical system design level or similar diagram, pseudo code, and others.

As part of this assignment please study the topics and questions listed below, and document the answers in your webpage:
Ranky-EM-0: Review engineering manageent / project management-focused videos (to learn about interesting and challenging projects in the real-world), and then set up your own company.

.....................................................................
These are the tasks you should complete in this assignment:
.....................................................................

1. Review video 1 of the set of videos in Professor Ranky's multimedia library (the numbered on-line accessible video list with hyperlinks will be / was emailed to you during the first week of the course, or earlier). Watch the video and write a 300-350 word executive summary.