Engineering Project Management: Risk, Quality, Teams, and Procurement from Coursera

Many Project Managers focus only on the scope, schedule and budget. However, a successful project requires that you manage risk, control the quality of the deliverables, engage and manage people and procure goods and services. This course will focus on these key support functions that make the difference between a highly successful project and an average one. During the course, you will prepare a Qualitative Risk Analysis and Evaluate the Cost of Quality for a provided Case Study.

By the end of this course you will be able to:

• Identify positive and negative risks

• Develop risk strategies

• Perform a qualitative risk analysis

• Identify cost contingencies and reserves

• Develop a quality plan

• Identify quality standards

• Utilize cause and effect tools

• Create a prioritization matrix

• Develop a team management plan that includes team development, identifying team members and clarifies roles and responsibilities

• Develop a procurement plan that includes contracts and incentives

All of this will position you to understand the more intangible aspects of project management to drive better overall performance.

Rice Center for Engineering Leadership is a Registered Education Provider through the Project Management Institute (PMI)®. Learners who complete this course on the Certificate track will be awarded 12 hours of Profession Development Units. These are recognized by PMI for continuing education or can be applied toward the 35 hours of education required for the Project Management Professional (PMP)® certification.

*PMI and PMP are registered marks of the Project Management Institute, Inc.

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction

Module 1- Project Risk Management

Module 2- Quality Assurance Plan

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Teaches a broad range of project management skills beyond the core concepts

Meets PMI Continuing Education Requirements for PMPs

Covers intangible factors that impact project success, including risk and quality

Taught by experienced instructors in the field

Provides opportunities to apply concepts through case studies

Reviews summary

Project management: risk, quality, teams, procurement

According to learners, this course offers a solid overview of key project management areas often overlooked: risk, quality, teams, and procurement. Many students found the material practical and applicable to their work. The course is frequently cited as valuable for earning PDUs towards the PMP certification. While the lectures and structure are generally praised for clarity, some experienced project managers found the content too basic and wished for more depth or advanced topics. Overall, it's seen as a beneficial course, particularly for those newer to these specific PM knowledge areas or seeking PMP credits, though seasoned professionals might find it introductory.

Highlights overlooked PM functions.

"I appreciated the focus on team dynamics and communication, often overlooked in technical PM training."

"It was great to dive specifically into risk, quality, and procurement, areas that are critical but sometimes get less attention."

"This course successfully addresses the 'softer' and support functions of PM that are crucial for success."

Well-structured and easy to follow.

"The lectures were clear and well-structured, making complex topics easy to digest module by module."

"I found the course flow logical and the explanations provided by the instructor were easy to understand."

"The way the material is organized into distinct modules makes it easy to manage my learning progress."

"Instructor explains concepts clearly and provides relevant examples throughout the lectures."

Teaches practical, job-ready techniques.

"Learned practical tools for quality planning that I can apply immediately in my projects. The case study reinforced the concepts."

"The sections on risk management and quality assurance provided actionable strategies I can use."

"Found the approach to managing teams and procurement particularly relevant to real-world challenges."

"Useful information that I can apply immediately in my current and future projects."

Good for PMP prep and earning PDUs.

"Excellent course for getting PDUs. The content aligns well with PMBOK areas, making it relevant for PMP aspirants."

"Very helpful course to understand project management risk, quality, teams and procurement management. It is a useful course to earn PDUs."

"I recommend this course to anyone looking for PDUs or wanting a structured approach to these PM areas."

"Helpful in understanding the project management areas and obtaining credits for PMP."

"Great for consolidating knowledge and earning PDUs needed for certification maintenance."

Content may be too basic for some.

"Good overview, but I was hoping for more detail on advanced risk modeling techniques. Felt a bit basic for someone with prior PM experience."

"While helpful for beginners, experienced PMs might find this course covers familiar ground and lacks significant depth."

"The course provides a good foundation but doesn't delve deeply into complex scenarios or tools."

"It gives a decent introduction, but I felt some topics were only briefly touched upon and could benefit from more in-depth exploration."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Engineering Project Management: Risk, Quality, Teams, and Procurement with these activities:

Review Course Materials

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Enhance understanding of core project management concepts and principles before the course begins.

Browse courses on Project Management

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Review the course syllabus and identify key topics.
Read the assigned readings and textbooks prior to the start of the course.
Complete any pre-course quizzes or assignments to assess knowledge level.

Review Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) Guide - 7th Edition

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Provide a solid foundation and a comprehensive overview of project management practices and principles.

View Risk Management in Portfolios, Programs, and... on Amazon

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Read the PMBOK Guide in sequence, starting with the introduction and foundational chapters.
Identify key concepts and principles, and make notes or highlight important sections.
Complete the practice questions and exercises provided in the PMBOK Guide.

Become a Course Mentor

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Reinforce knowledge and understanding by assisting other learners in their project management journey.

Browse courses on Project Management

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Review the course content and identify areas of expertise.
Join the course discussion forums and actively participate in answering questions and providing support to other learners.
Offer one-on-one mentoring sessions to learners who seek additional guidance or support.

Four other activities

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Complete Online Course on Quality Management

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Expand knowledge of quality management principles and best practices relevant to project management.

Browse courses on Quality Management

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Research and select an online course on quality management that aligns with the course objectives.
Enroll in the course and actively participate in the modules, discussions, and assignments.
Apply the concepts and tools learned in the course to a project or case study.

Develop a Project Risk Management Plan

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Reinforce understanding of risk management concepts and develop a practical plan for identifying, analyzing, and mitigating project risks.

Browse courses on Project Risk Management

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Review the project scope, schedule, and budget.
Identify potential risks using brainstorming, risk registers, or other techniques.
Analyze risks to determine their likelihood and impact.
Develop mitigation strategies to address identified risks.
Create a risk management plan outlining the risk management process, roles, and responsibilities.

Solve Project Management Case Studies

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Enhance problem-solving skills and apply project management concepts in simulated scenarios.

Browse courses on Project Management

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Identify and collect project management case studies from reputable sources.
Analyze the case studies to understand the project scope, constraints, and challenges.
Apply project management knowledge and techniques to develop solutions and recommendations.
Document the case study analysis and solutions in a written report or presentation.

Attend a Project Management Simulation Workshop

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Provide an immersive and interactive experience that simulates real-world project management challenges.

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Research and identify a project management simulation workshop that aligns with the course objectives.
Register for and attend the workshop.
Actively participate in the simulation exercises, decision-making processes, and discussions.
Reflect on the experience and identify areas for improvement in project management skills.

Career center

Learners who complete Engineering Project Management: Risk, Quality, Teams, and Procurement will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Project Manager

A Project Manager is responsible for planning, executing, and closing out projects. They work with stakeholders to define project scope, develop project plans, and track project progress. Project Management skills are vital for professionals in various industries, and this course provides a comprehensive foundation in essential Project Management tools and techniques. By learning about risk management, quality management, team management, and procurement, you can develop the necessary skills to lead successful projects in various fields.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

Risk Manager

A Risk Manager is responsible for identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks that could impact an organization. They work with stakeholders to develop risk management plans and strategies. This course provides a solid understanding of risk management principles and techniques, equipping you with the skills to identify and manage risks effectively. By completing this course, you can enhance your ability to contribute to risk management efforts within an organization.

See salaries and explore the career path for Risk Manager

Quality Assurance Manager

A Quality Assurance Manager is responsible for developing and implementing quality assurance plans and procedures. They work with stakeholders to ensure that products and services meet quality standards. This course provides a comprehensive overview of quality management principles and techniques, helping you gain the skills necessary to develop and implement effective quality assurance programs. By completing this course, you can enhance your ability to contribute to quality assurance efforts within an organization.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Manager

Team Leader

A Team Leader is responsible for leading and managing teams to achieve project goals. They work with team members to develop team goals, assign tasks, and track progress. This course provides insights into team management principles and techniques, equipping you with the skills to lead and manage teams effectively. By completing this course, you can enhance your ability to contribute to team success in various professional settings.

See salaries and explore the career path for Team Leader

Procurement Manager

A Procurement Manager is responsible for managing the procurement of goods and services for an organization. They work with suppliers to negotiate contracts and ensure that goods and services are delivered on time and within budget. This course provides a comprehensive overview of procurement management principles and techniques, helping you develop the skills necessary to manage procurement activities effectively. By completing this course, you can enhance your ability to contribute to procurement efforts within an organization.

See salaries and explore the career path for Procurement Manager

Business Analyst

A Business Analyst is responsible for analyzing business needs and developing solutions to improve business processes. They work with stakeholders to gather requirements, analyze data, and develop recommendations. This course provides a foundation in business analysis principles and techniques, equipping you with the skills to gather and analyze requirements, develop solutions, and communicate effectively with stakeholders. By completing this course, you can enhance your ability to contribute to business analysis efforts within an organization.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Project Coordinator

A Project Coordinator is responsible for assisting Project Managers with the planning, execution, and closing out of projects. They work with stakeholders to track project progress, manage project documentation, and coordinate project activities. This course provides a comprehensive overview of project management principles and techniques, equipping you with the skills to support Project Managers effectively. By completing this course, you can enhance your ability to contribute to project coordination efforts within an organization.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Coordinator

Quality Engineer

A Quality Engineer is responsible for developing and implementing quality control and quality assurance programs. They work with stakeholders to ensure that products and services meet quality standards. This course provides a comprehensive overview of quality engineering principles and techniques, helping you develop the skills necessary to develop and implement effective quality programs. By completing this course, you can enhance your ability to contribute to quality engineering efforts within an organization.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Engineer

Risk Analyst

A Risk Analyst is responsible for identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks that could impact an organization. They work with stakeholders to develop risk management plans and strategies. This course provides a solid understanding of risk analysis principles and techniques, equipping you with the skills to identify and analyze risks effectively. By completing this course, you can enhance your ability to contribute to risk analysis efforts within an organization.

See salaries and explore the career path for Risk Analyst

Technical Writer

A Technical Writer is responsible for creating and maintaining technical documentation, such as user manuals, white papers, and training materials. They work with stakeholders to gather information, develop content, and communicate technical information effectively. This course may be helpful for Technical Writers who want to develop a foundation in project management principles and techniques. By completing this course, you can enhance your ability to contribute to project documentation efforts within an organization.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

Data Analyst

A Data Analyst is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to identify trends and patterns. They work with stakeholders to develop data-driven solutions to improve business outcomes. This course may be helpful for Data Analysts who want to develop a foundation in project management principles and techniques. By completing this course, you can enhance your ability to contribute to data analysis efforts within an organization.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Operations Manager

An Operations Manager is responsible for planning, organizing, and directing the operations of an organization. They work with stakeholders to develop and implement operational plans, manage resources, and track performance. This course may be helpful for Operations Managers who want to develop a foundation in project management principles and techniques. By completing this course, you can enhance your ability to contribute to operational management efforts within an organization.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Manager

Human Resources Manager

A Human Resources Manager is responsible for planning, organizing, and directing the human resources functions of an organization. They work with stakeholders to develop and implement HR policies, manage employee relations, and recruit and hire new employees. This course may be helpful for Human Resources Managers who want to develop a foundation in project management principles and techniques. By completing this course, you can enhance your ability to contribute to HR management efforts within an organization.

See salaries and explore the career path for Human Resources Manager

Sales Manager

A Sales Manager is responsible for planning, organizing, and directing the sales functions of an organization. They work with stakeholders to develop and implement sales strategies, manage sales teams, and track sales performance. This course may be helpful for Sales Managers who want to develop a foundation in project management principles and techniques. By completing this course, you can enhance your ability to contribute to sales management efforts within an organization.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sales Manager

Marketing Manager

A Marketing Manager is responsible for planning, organizing, and directing the marketing functions of an organization. They work with stakeholders to develop and implement marketing strategies, manage marketing teams, and track marketing performance. This course may be helpful for Marketing Managers who want to develop a foundation in project management principles and techniques. By completing this course, you can enhance your ability to contribute to marketing management efforts within an organization.

See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager