During my Internship in USS, I have learnt many new things.
I have learnt that work life can be fun and interesting. As a job that involves a great deal of guest interaction, I have learnt to handle guest issues in different situations. Although there may be difficult guests at times, learning to deal with them is something that this Internship placement has taught me. Instead of getting angry and raising my voice, there are times when I have to be very patient and explain clearly to the guests.
I have also learnt the importance of teamwork. With all team members working in the same environment, it is important to assist one another in getting the job done. When a team member is facing a difficult situation, it will be helpful for a fellow team member to offer his/her help. It helps to minimise the delay caused by the interruption.
Communication also plays an important part. Effective communication among team members will minimise any possible conflict that may arise. It also improves the relationship among the team members. If there is any discrepancy in communication, problems may occur and the job will not be done well. It will also affect the experience of the guests at the attraction.
16 weeks is not a short period but time has passed really fast. It feels like I have just started my Internship not long ago and I am ending it now. During these 16 weeks, I have gained a different perspective of how working life is like. I have made many new friends and met different types of people. Although the job nature has little relevance to my course of study, it has changed the way I look at difficult situations and how I handle them.
Monday, January 30, 2012
Internship - Week 15 (23/1/12 - 29/1/12)
Due to the nature of the ride, it is inevitable that cases of medical emergency may occur. This may include bleeding or fainting. If a guest returns from the ride complaining of such cases, a team member has to stay beside the guest at all times. The control room operator must do the following:
- inform the consoles positions to stop loading guests into the ride vehicles
- inform technicians of the problem
- call for Team Lead and Zone Manager
- inform Tech Base of the problem
- cycle the ride vehicles empty so that guests around the ride track area can return as soon as possible
- call for Health Services to attend to the guest
- play the automated spiel for queue delay
- take note of the situation in the Controls Log Book
After the guest is attended to, the Team Lead has to take a ride-through in the exact seat and ride vehicle taken by the affected guest. While taking the ride-through, the Team Lead has to ensure that all elements of the ride is safe and the attraction can return to operational mode.
Internship - Week 14 (16/1/12 - 22/1/12)
When a fire/fire alarm is triggered, the control room operator has to do a few things immediately. These include:
- inform the consoles positions to stop loading guests into the ride vehicles
- inform technicians of the problem
- call for Team Lead and Zone Manager
- inform Tech Base of the problem
- cycle the ride vehicles empty so that guests around the ride track area can return as soon as possible
- play the automated spiel for queue mandatory and inform team members about clearing the queue
- get someone to walk around the whole queue area to clear the queue
- take note of the fault that happened in the Controls Log Book
- play a manual spiel informing all team members to gather at the Greeter Portal
- activate an E-Stop after all guests and team members are evacuated
- take the necessary paperwork and gather at the Greeter Portal
It is important to note that when evacuating the building, cycle clear is done instead of depressing E-Stop button. This is to minimise the time needed to evacuate the entire building. Guests have to directed out of the attraction immediately so as not to compromise the safety of anyone.
Friday, January 13, 2012
Internship - Week 13 (9/1/12 - 15/1/12)
When the ride vehicles are moving on the track, certain alarms may occur and trigger an E-Stop. For example, when there is a sensor fault, whereby a sensor failed to detect the ride vehicle, an E-Stop will be automatically triggered.
The control room operator has to call for the technicians, call for Team Lead and Zone Manager, and inform Tech Base of the downtime. The location of each ride vehicle has to be noted down in case team members have to evacuate the guests. Automated spiels of queue delay will be played periodically to inform guests, who are in the queue, of the technical difficulty.
When technicians have determined that the fault cannot be solved in a short period of time, an evacuation will take place. The control room operator will assign the team members to the various ride vehicles on the ride track to evacuate the guests. Through the CCTV screens in the control room, the control room operator can monitor the situation and ensure all guests have been evacuated from the ride track area.
If the fault cannot be solved within 20 minutes, the control room operator have to play the automated spiel for queue mandatory. This means that all guests in the queue must be evacuated. Some team members will be sent to walk around the whole queue area to ensure no guest is left behind.
During this whole period of time, the control room operator must not be bumped out of position until the attraction has returned to operational mode. This is because that particular team member will be the most well-informed about the situation. Hence, it is important that the control room operator remain in position until the fault has been resolved.
The control room operator has to call for the technicians, call for Team Lead and Zone Manager, and inform Tech Base of the downtime. The location of each ride vehicle has to be noted down in case team members have to evacuate the guests. Automated spiels of queue delay will be played periodically to inform guests, who are in the queue, of the technical difficulty.
When technicians have determined that the fault cannot be solved in a short period of time, an evacuation will take place. The control room operator will assign the team members to the various ride vehicles on the ride track to evacuate the guests. Through the CCTV screens in the control room, the control room operator can monitor the situation and ensure all guests have been evacuated from the ride track area.
If the fault cannot be solved within 20 minutes, the control room operator have to play the automated spiel for queue mandatory. This means that all guests in the queue must be evacuated. Some team members will be sent to walk around the whole queue area to ensure no guest is left behind.
During this whole period of time, the control room operator must not be bumped out of position until the attraction has returned to operational mode. This is because that particular team member will be the most well-informed about the situation. Hence, it is important that the control room operator remain in position until the fault has been resolved.
Internship - Week 12 (2/1/12 - 8/1/12)
I receive on-job training as a control room operator. I have learnt that it is important to be focused at all time when being in this position. With a total of 36 CCTV screens to monitor and 1 solo selector panel to zoom in on a screen, the control room operator has to divide the attention equally. Keeping the eyes on the screens is essential because guests' safety may be compromised at any time during the ride. In the case whereby guests stand up or exit the ride vehicle during the ride, the control room operator must depress the E-Stop button immediately.
The control room operator is also in command. Team members who are in position at the various consoles have to listen to the instructions given by the control room operator. When a downtime occurs, the control room operator has to inform the technicians, Team Lead, Zone Manager and Tech Base. The control room operator has to communicate with the above-mentioned parties to determine what to do.
Apart from these, the control room operator also has to handle all administrative work. This includes:
The control room operator is also in command. Team members who are in position at the various consoles have to listen to the instructions given by the control room operator. When a downtime occurs, the control room operator has to inform the technicians, Team Lead, Zone Manager and Tech Base. The control room operator has to communicate with the above-mentioned parties to determine what to do.
Apart from these, the control room operator also has to handle all administrative work. This includes:
- recording the hourly dispatch count of the attraction and reporting to Ops Base
- recording the break times of all Team Members in order to keep track
- recording any fault that occurred
- recording all necessary activities inside the Controls Log Book
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Internship - Week 11 (26/12/11 - 1/1/12)
Child Swap Pass is issued when one of the guest in a group fails to meet the minimum height requirement.
Example:
Guest A - 178cm
Guest B - 100cm
Guest C - 130cm
Guest D - 168cm
Since Guest B is unable to take the ride, one Child Swap Pass can be issued to the group of guests. For example, Guests C and D can take the ride first, while Guest A takes care of Guest B outside the attraction. When Guests C and D returns from the ride, Guest A can enter the attraction through the Universal Express queue using the Child Swap Pass.
This allows all guests who meet the minimum height requirement to take the ride and affected guests need not have to join the long queue again.
Example:
Guest A - 178cm
Guest B - 100cm
Guest C - 130cm
Guest D - 168cm
Since Guest B is unable to take the ride, one Child Swap Pass can be issued to the group of guests. For example, Guests C and D can take the ride first, while Guest A takes care of Guest B outside the attraction. When Guests C and D returns from the ride, Guest A can enter the attraction through the Universal Express queue using the Child Swap Pass.
This allows all guests who meet the minimum height requirement to take the ride and affected guests need not have to join the long queue again.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Internship - Week 10 (19/12/11 - 25/12/11)
Different attractions have different requirements that guests need to adhere to in order to gain entry. For Transformers The Ride, guests need to be at least 102cm in height and accompanied by a supervising adult of at least 14 years old and 122cm in height. To ride alone (Single Rider queue), guests need to be at least 122cm.
The Greeter is responsible for checking the height of all guests before allowing them to enter the attraction. The Grouper has to double confirm that all guests meet the minimum height requirement before grouping them into the load station.
Height measurements are done using the height sticks located at the entrance of the attraction and at load station. The measurements have to be done accurately as minimum height requirements are set to ensure that all guests can be safely secured by the lap restraint in the ride vehicle. Any error in measurement may cause guest's safety to be compromised
The Greeter is responsible for checking the height of all guests before allowing them to enter the attraction. The Grouper has to double confirm that all guests meet the minimum height requirement before grouping them into the load station.
Height measurements are done using the height sticks located at the entrance of the attraction and at load station. The measurements have to be done accurately as minimum height requirements are set to ensure that all guests can be safely secured by the lap restraint in the ride vehicle. Any error in measurement may cause guest's safety to be compromised
Internship - Week 9 (12/12/11 - 18/12/11)
Onzies (pronounced as one-zies) is often used as compensation to guests. It is usually used in circumstances, such as when an attraction is undergoing a technical difficulty. During a downtime, affected guests will be offered onzies to compensate for the interruption in their experience at the attraction.
Onzies is a one-time express pass which allows the ticket holder to enter any USS attraction through the Universal Express queue. It does not include Magic Potion Spin, Amber Rock Climb and front row on Battlestar Galactica.
At the entrance of the attraction, guests have to present their onzies to the Express Redemption to mark before entering the Universal Express queue. The Grouper will check for the onzies again and collect it from the guests, to prevent them from re-using the ticket.
Onzies is a one-time express pass which allows the ticket holder to enter any USS attraction through the Universal Express queue. It does not include Magic Potion Spin, Amber Rock Climb and front row on Battlestar Galactica.
At the entrance of the attraction, guests have to present their onzies to the Express Redemption to mark before entering the Universal Express queue. The Grouper will check for the onzies again and collect it from the guests, to prevent them from re-using the ticket.
Internship - Week 8 (5/12/11 - 11/12/11)
Lock-out-Tag-out (LOTO) is implemented as a safety measure to ensure that the safety of team members is not compromised. It is used when any team member has to enter the ride track area, such as during cleaning duties in the morning or evacuation of guests.
When the E-Stop button in the control room is activated, a lock has to be attached to the box of the button so that it cannot be depressed unnecessarily. The key of the lock will be placed inside a red box. Every team member that needs to access the ride track area has to get a padlock and sign in for it. The padlock has to be secured onto the red box, while the key has to be kept with the team member at all times. With the padlock on the red box, it is impossible to retrieve the key of the lock inside, unless the padlock is removed. This means that the E-Stop button cannot be depressed until all team members have returned from the ride track area.
When the E-Stop button is activated, all power in the ride track area will be turned off. This allows team members to perform their tasks in the ride track area, without worrying that the ride vehicles will start moving.
LOTO is performed individually. No one is allowed to sign in/out for another team member. This ensures that all team members have returned safely and no one is left behind.
When the E-Stop button in the control room is activated, a lock has to be attached to the box of the button so that it cannot be depressed unnecessarily. The key of the lock will be placed inside a red box. Every team member that needs to access the ride track area has to get a padlock and sign in for it. The padlock has to be secured onto the red box, while the key has to be kept with the team member at all times. With the padlock on the red box, it is impossible to retrieve the key of the lock inside, unless the padlock is removed. This means that the E-Stop button cannot be depressed until all team members have returned from the ride track area.
When the E-Stop button is activated, all power in the ride track area will be turned off. This allows team members to perform their tasks in the ride track area, without worrying that the ride vehicles will start moving.
LOTO is performed individually. No one is allowed to sign in/out for another team member. This ensures that all team members have returned safely and no one is left behind.
Friday, December 2, 2011
Internship - Week 7 (28/11/11 - 4/12/11)
On 1/12/11 (Thursday), I helped out in the evacuation of guests when the attraction encountered a technical difficulty. It was a new experience for me because I have only heard my colleagues mentioning about their experiences, but have never tried it out personally.
When the attraction is undergoing a technical difficulty which cannot be settled within 20 minutes, evacuation of guests is necessary. When the person in the control room determined the need for an evacuation, a "Code Red! All N.E.S.T personnels please return to base" spiel will be activated. Upon hearing this, all positions except Greeter, Load and Unload console operators must gather outside the leads room. The person in the control room has to check through the CCTVs and assign different areas to everyone for evacuation.
A minimum of 2 team members are required for each group of guests being evacuated. One of them will talk to the guests to prevent mess and confusion, while the other will manually push up the gate of the ride vehicle. The guests will be told to alight the vehicle row by row so as to avoid confusion. Thereafter, the team members will escort the guests through the primary escape route, with 1 team member leading at the front and the other team member guarding at the back so that no guest will stray off from the group. However, when the situation calls for it, guests will be led through the secondary escape route, which will be the nearest exit. Before exiting the attraction, guests will be given a complimentary Universal Express™. This ticket will allow them to enter any attraction in USS through the Universal Express™ queue.
Official Opening (3/12/11)
On 3/12/11 (Saturday), it was the official opening of Transformers The Ride and 18,000 tickets were sold out for the day. It was a very busy day as many people visited the park to experience the new attraction. Due to the great response, the waiting time of the attraction rose to 3 hours after only 1 hour since the park started its day of operations. Although the ride was grounded for 45 minutes due to a technical difficulty, many guests still wished to remain in the attraction for the ride to resume operations.
Due to the nature of this business, there are many chances of guest interaction. In this process, it is inevitable to meet difficult guests who are hard to please. In the morning, I encountered an incident whereby one of the child of a guest did not meet the minimum height requirement of 102cm. I had to do my job and stop the child from entering, despite the parents repeatedly asking me to close one eye. However, the minimum height requirement was set to ensure the safety of all guests taking the ride, it is important to be strict on the entry of small children. Hence, I had to explain to the parents that preventing their child from entering is due to safety reasons. In the end, the father of the child said "You really make our lives difficult". Nonetheless, I still had to keep a smile on my face because there are other guests and I should still do my part to make their experience enjoyable. In the later part of the day, I encountered another incident when I was in position as a grouper. As a grouper, I have to ask guests for their party size and group them into the different rows available. However, an elderly couple simply pushed my aside before I had a chance to say anything to them. They chose the row they preferred and entered the loading queue area of the ride. Since they were of old ages, I let them be and continued grouping the other guests.
There are also instances when guests just get angry and scold you in front of everyone, even though you are just doing what you were told to do. On 1/12/11 (Thursday), I encountered a mother with two children. One child did not meet the minimum height requirement and could not take the ride. She told me to take care of the child while she took the ride with the other child. However, as part of the company policy, team members are not supposed to take care of children or belongings for guests as we are not responsible for it. I tried to explain to the mother that I cannot do so because if anything bad were to happen to the child, I cannot be responsible for it. She then scolded me by claiming that she spent so much money to enter the park and I can't expect her to go home and find someone to take care of the child. No matter how much I tried to explain to her, she still insisted on meeting the manager. I had no choice but to get my team lead to attend to her.
Although in cases like these, I am just doing my job and staying firm by the instructions I was given, there will still be times when guests can get so unreasonable that I just felt like telling them off. However, I know that it is not right to do so and will remind myself constantly to bear with it. Through these incidents, I have learnt that communication with guests is very important. Only through effective communication can I get messages across to guests. Some guests are very understanding and will cooperate well, while some guests may be unaccepting and insist on doing things their way. In times like this, it is very important to stay calm and maintain your stand.
Friday, November 25, 2011
Internship - Week 6 (21/11/11 - 27/11/11)
Soft opening of the attraction started on 19/11/11 (Saturday). This means that the attraction is undergoing technical rehearsal. Members of the public can come to take the ride, however not all elements of the show may be working. Thousands of guests come for the ride everyday. I actually enjoy myself more when interacting with the guests. Most of them were very cooperative and made my job much easier. It was satisfying, seeing how much the guests were enjoying their experience at this attraction.
During the technical rehearsal, there were a few incidents whereby all guests had to be evacuated. Although I was not evacuation-trained, I got to see how my colleagues did their part in the evacuation process. In the event of a downtime resulting in evacuation, almost all team members must gather immediately outside the control room and the team leader will assign tasks to everyone.
However, the following positions MUST NOT drop their positions:
1) Greeter
The greeter has to remain in position at the greeter portal at the entrance of the attraction. As the greeter is the first person that guests will meet before entering the attraction, he is in charge of answering all guests' queries and checking that all guests meet the minimum height requirement of 102cm.
In the event of a downtime, the greeter has to close the queue and prevent guests from entering the attraction. When handling guests' queries, the greeter must never tell guests about the nature of the problem. He can only let guests know that there is a technical difficulty.
An example of a reply to guests' queries is, "We are currently closed due to a technical difficulty. Our technicians are currently fixing the problem and we are not sure how long it will take. We may or may not open again for the day. Please check out our other attractions first and check back again later."
2) Load console operator
3) Unload console operator
4) Control room
This is the most important position. The person in the control room has to oversee the entire operations of the attraction. In the event of a downtime, he has to communicate with the Tech Base and all technicians, regarding the fault encountered. He has to broadcast a spiel "Red Alert!" and all team members will gather outside the control room. He has to then delegate tasks to everyone, such as which area should each team member evacuate. Thereafter, he has to ensure all guests have been evacuated through the CCTVs.
During the technical rehearsal, there were a few incidents whereby all guests had to be evacuated. Although I was not evacuation-trained, I got to see how my colleagues did their part in the evacuation process. In the event of a downtime resulting in evacuation, almost all team members must gather immediately outside the control room and the team leader will assign tasks to everyone.
However, the following positions MUST NOT drop their positions:
1) Greeter
The greeter has to remain in position at the greeter portal at the entrance of the attraction. As the greeter is the first person that guests will meet before entering the attraction, he is in charge of answering all guests' queries and checking that all guests meet the minimum height requirement of 102cm.
In the event of a downtime, the greeter has to close the queue and prevent guests from entering the attraction. When handling guests' queries, the greeter must never tell guests about the nature of the problem. He can only let guests know that there is a technical difficulty.
An example of a reply to guests' queries is, "We are currently closed due to a technical difficulty. Our technicians are currently fixing the problem and we are not sure how long it will take. We may or may not open again for the day. Please check out our other attractions first and check back again later."
2) Load console operator
3) Unload console operator
4) Control room
This is the most important position. The person in the control room has to oversee the entire operations of the attraction. In the event of a downtime, he has to communicate with the Tech Base and all technicians, regarding the fault encountered. He has to broadcast a spiel "Red Alert!" and all team members will gather outside the control room. He has to then delegate tasks to everyone, such as which area should each team member evacuate. Thereafter, he has to ensure all guests have been evacuated through the CCTVs.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Internship - Week 5 (14/11/11 - 20/11/11)
As Team Member Preview and Soft Opening of the attraction is nearing, it was busy during the start of the week. Everything has to be prepared thoroughly so as to ensure the events will run smoothly.
Team Member Preview - Day 1 (16/11/11)
It was the first time I get to interact with guests who were coming to take the ride. I was excited since the start of the day and hoping that everything will go right. When guests started coming in, I was happy to see them. After 1 month of cycling the ride vehicles without guests and conducting tests, I finally get to experience something new. As there were many new rotational positions, everyone were split into groups. My group consisted of the following positions:
- Greet and welcome guests at entrance of attraction
- Operate load console
- Unload guests from ride vehicles
- Handle 3D glasses
- Breaker
The guests were all fellow team members who are working in RWS, so they were co-operative and enthusiastic. It was such a busy day that I willingly sacrificed my break time to help out with the operations. The 3D glasses had to be constantly replenished throughout the event and used ones had to be collected and washed before replenishing. Hence, that role required a lot of time and effort. Although I was supposed to end my shift at 10pm, I extended for another hour so that there were enough manpower.
Team Member Preview - Day 2 (17/11/11)
Before the event started, I helped out with washing all the 3D glasses and replenishing them. I also cleaned the railings at the exterior queue areas and checked around the interior queue areas for defects. I was arranged into the same group, thus I was familiar with the positions I had to take up. The day was not as tiring because I already got used to it the previous day.
Through this event, I got a chance to experience many new things that I have never encountered before. I learned to interact with guests, smiling and showing my enthusiasm while ensuring they enjoyed the ride. I learned to use the walkie-talkie to communicate with my fellow team members. I learned to be alert of the hand signs given by my fellow team members and operating the console in a safe manner. I learned to voice out louder and giving clear instructions so that the guests would not feel lost or confused. I learned to operate the washing machine for washing the 3D glasses in just 5 minutes, because there was not much time for my team leader to teach me. I learned to work fast to ensure everything went smoothly, such as collecting the used 3D glasses from the bags at the unload station, stacking them into trays, putting them into the washing machine to wash and replenishing the collection booths so that there were sufficient for the guests.
Most importantly, I learned the importance of teamwork. We have to constantly look out for one another, helping one another out so that mistakes can be minimised and prevented. Even though the breaker gets a 15 minutes break, it is important to not delay in the rotation of positions so that everyone gets sufficient rest and not tire out easily. Teamwork is essential to ensure the smooth operations of the event and provide an enjoyable and memorable experience for the guests. This is the time I can confidently say, I love my Internship :)
Team Member Preview - Day 1 (16/11/11)
It was the first time I get to interact with guests who were coming to take the ride. I was excited since the start of the day and hoping that everything will go right. When guests started coming in, I was happy to see them. After 1 month of cycling the ride vehicles without guests and conducting tests, I finally get to experience something new. As there were many new rotational positions, everyone were split into groups. My group consisted of the following positions:
- Greet and welcome guests at entrance of attraction
- Operate load console
- Unload guests from ride vehicles
- Handle 3D glasses
- Breaker
The guests were all fellow team members who are working in RWS, so they were co-operative and enthusiastic. It was such a busy day that I willingly sacrificed my break time to help out with the operations. The 3D glasses had to be constantly replenished throughout the event and used ones had to be collected and washed before replenishing. Hence, that role required a lot of time and effort. Although I was supposed to end my shift at 10pm, I extended for another hour so that there were enough manpower.
Team Member Preview - Day 2 (17/11/11)
Before the event started, I helped out with washing all the 3D glasses and replenishing them. I also cleaned the railings at the exterior queue areas and checked around the interior queue areas for defects. I was arranged into the same group, thus I was familiar with the positions I had to take up. The day was not as tiring because I already got used to it the previous day.
Through this event, I got a chance to experience many new things that I have never encountered before. I learned to interact with guests, smiling and showing my enthusiasm while ensuring they enjoyed the ride. I learned to use the walkie-talkie to communicate with my fellow team members. I learned to be alert of the hand signs given by my fellow team members and operating the console in a safe manner. I learned to voice out louder and giving clear instructions so that the guests would not feel lost or confused. I learned to operate the washing machine for washing the 3D glasses in just 5 minutes, because there was not much time for my team leader to teach me. I learned to work fast to ensure everything went smoothly, such as collecting the used 3D glasses from the bags at the unload station, stacking them into trays, putting them into the washing machine to wash and replenishing the collection booths so that there were sufficient for the guests.
Most importantly, I learned the importance of teamwork. We have to constantly look out for one another, helping one another out so that mistakes can be minimised and prevented. Even though the breaker gets a 15 minutes break, it is important to not delay in the rotation of positions so that everyone gets sufficient rest and not tire out easily. Teamwork is essential to ensure the smooth operations of the event and provide an enjoyable and memorable experience for the guests. This is the time I can confidently say, I love my Internship :)
Friday, November 11, 2011
Internship - Week 4 (7/11/11 - 13/11/11)
Work was as usual. The job scope is repetitive because of the job nature. However, through incidents that may occur, I was able to learn more about my responsibility as a team member there.
At the start of a work day, I have to sign out a green pass which I have to keep with me for the whole day. It is an "All Access" pass which allows me to access all parts of the building, including the ride tracks. Unauthorised personnel without the green pass have to obtain permission and get someone to escort them while they walk around the building.
One of the rotational position is being stationed at one area behind the ride track and projector screen. The purpose of it is to prevent unauthorised personnel from entering the ride track without supervision. As the attraction is new and still undergoing test cycling, contractors and other workers may enter the building. However, they have to conduct their work under the supervision of an authorised personnel. When I was in that position, someone wanted to enter the ride track areas to check on something. As he did not have a green pass, I had to refer him to the control room to verify his identity and for someone to escort him.
Being in that position requires one to be alert at all times. When anyone tries to enter the ride track, it is important to verify his identity and ensure he is allowed to do so. This helps to prevent any possible accident that may occur while the person is wandering around the ride tracks.
At the start of a work day, I have to sign out a green pass which I have to keep with me for the whole day. It is an "All Access" pass which allows me to access all parts of the building, including the ride tracks. Unauthorised personnel without the green pass have to obtain permission and get someone to escort them while they walk around the building.
One of the rotational position is being stationed at one area behind the ride track and projector screen. The purpose of it is to prevent unauthorised personnel from entering the ride track without supervision. As the attraction is new and still undergoing test cycling, contractors and other workers may enter the building. However, they have to conduct their work under the supervision of an authorised personnel. When I was in that position, someone wanted to enter the ride track areas to check on something. As he did not have a green pass, I had to refer him to the control room to verify his identity and for someone to escort him.
Being in that position requires one to be alert at all times. When anyone tries to enter the ride track, it is important to verify his identity and ensure he is allowed to do so. This helps to prevent any possible accident that may occur while the person is wandering around the ride tracks.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Internship - Week 3 (31/10/11 - 6/11/11)
Rotational duties are performed, in order to ensure every team member gets to rest.
Some of the duties include:
- Loader
- Load console operator
- Unload console operator
- Unloader
- Fence Guard
- Breaker
When work starts, everyone will be given a position to start off.
For example, I will start as Loader. When the supposed Breaker comes to my position, I will move on to Load console, then to Unload console, and so on. When I reach the Breaker position, I will report to Control Room that I am starting my break. 15 minutes later, I will report to Control Room that I am ending my break. Thereafter, I will return to the Loader position and the rotation carries on.
When there are more than enough team members for rotation, an additional Breaker position will be inserted after Load console operator. This means that there will be two Breakers, thus allowing more time for rest.
For 1-hour meal breaks, some positions may be taken off to make up for the lack of people. We will go in groups of 2 or more. When the break ends, we will return to position so that the remaining people can go for their meal breaks.
Although the operational duties are routine, I was able to understand each job scope better. It allows me to learn better by actually doing it again and again. By familiarising with each position, mistakes can be minimised, and eventually prevented, when the ride is open to public.
Some of the duties include:
- Loader
- Load console operator
- Unload console operator
- Unloader
- Fence Guard
- Breaker
When work starts, everyone will be given a position to start off.
For example, I will start as Loader. When the supposed Breaker comes to my position, I will move on to Load console, then to Unload console, and so on. When I reach the Breaker position, I will report to Control Room that I am starting my break. 15 minutes later, I will report to Control Room that I am ending my break. Thereafter, I will return to the Loader position and the rotation carries on.
When there are more than enough team members for rotation, an additional Breaker position will be inserted after Load console operator. This means that there will be two Breakers, thus allowing more time for rest.
For 1-hour meal breaks, some positions may be taken off to make up for the lack of people. We will go in groups of 2 or more. When the break ends, we will return to position so that the remaining people can go for their meal breaks.
Although the operational duties are routine, I was able to understand each job scope better. It allows me to learn better by actually doing it again and again. By familiarising with each position, mistakes can be minimised, and eventually prevented, when the ride is open to public.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Internship - Week 2 (24/10/11 - 30/10/11)
I received my on-job training (OJT). My colleagues taught me many things about the operations of the attraction.
These include:
- The layout of the building
- How to operate the consoles
- The different operational positions
There was also a 208-pages set of working instructions to read up on.
It includes:
- Storyline of the attraction
- Facts about the ride
- Scenes of the ride
- Operational positions
- Operational instructions and codes
- Evacuation procedures
I had to take a test, in which the questions are based on the working instructions. Although it is not easy to get a perfect score, my colleague explained my mistakes to me and allowed me to redo the test. After signing off (passing the test), I am allowed to go solo at the operational positions. It was manageable for me because I was already taught on what to do. As the week goes on, I got the hang of it and enjoyed my work.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Internship - Week 1 (17/10/11 - 23/10/11)
Company: Resorts World Sentosa Pte Ltd (RWS)
Posted To: USS Attraction Operations - TRANSFORMERS The Ride
When I knew I would be posted to USS, I was excited about it because I have never been there. Although my first time there was going to be for work, I was nonetheless happy about it. I thought it would be good exposure to work in a theme park that is so well received by the public.
17 October 2011
Corporate Induction (Day 1) - This programme included many other newcomers from the various departments and there were almost 100 people. The HR trainers went through topics such as corporate overview, work safety and security awareness. Many group activities were conducted too, allowing me to know some of the other team members. I felt awkward since it was the first time I am in a programme without any close friends, but instead with many people whom were considered strangers to me. As a result, I was not participative in many of the activities.
18 October 2011
Corporate Induction (Day 2) - It was a continuation of the previous day. The HR trainer went through the importance of service and communication, with more group activities conducted. These activities stressed on the importance of teamwork and co-operation among the team members. Towards the end of the programme, everyone played a game called Natural Disaster. Although everyone were still split into the various groups, this activity required all the groups to co-operate well in order to succeed. Through this, I saw many people take up leadership roles and leading everyone in their best possible way. I also received my Photo ID Badge and Nametag, making me feel more like a part of the RWS family.
19 October 2011
Park Operations Training - All of us under Attraction Operations (AO) went through this programme together. There were 20 of us. The trainers taught us on general operating procedures. We were also given time to experience the rides at USS. It was my first time on a roller coaster. I made friends with my fellow team members and understood more about them through small conversations made. Due to the smaller size of group, I was able to interact more with them. Fittings were made for the uniform that I will be wearing when I start work at my department. I also went for a department briefing at AO - Transformers, which would be the place I will be working at for my Internship.
Transformers is a new ride that is opening in December 2011. At this point of time, everything that I will be learning are completely confidential because any information or detail should not be disclosed to the public before the ride is officially open. Photos and videos were also not allowed, for fear of me posting on social media websites or circulating among family and friends.
20 October 2011
Park Operations Training - It was a continuation of the previous day. The HR trainer taught us on work safety and I took a work assessment, whereby the trainer asked me questions on what was taught earlier. It was relatively easy because I could refer to the set of notes given. I will be receiving a certificate from RWS for this. Due to the excess of time between the training and the assessment, the trainer told us to go have fun at the park. Once again, I had fun with some of the team members and experienced some of the rides at USS.
21 October 2011 (LO Visit)
It was my first day of on-job training. I was given a stack of working instructions to read, and there will be a test on it in future. I was taken on a tour around the whole attraction and familiarised myself with the operations of the ride. The colleagues there were friendly and some of them taught me a lot on the things to do and not to do when I am working there. I am worried because there are many things to learn in a short period of time. Furthermore, any mistake made will lead to the compromising of guests' safety. Hence, I have to be very careful in the handling of the job equipment.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Lesson cancelled
Week 16 - Tutorial
Lesson was cancelled.
We just had to finish our OOC2 and upload it onto Google Docs.
Lesson was cancelled.
We just had to finish our OOC2 and upload it onto Google Docs.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Week 16 - Lecture
It was out-of-classroom activity. Everyone were given different topic and we were supposed to write a report on it.
Q14. Fidel Castro
Fidel Castro is a revolutionary figure and former Prime Minister of Cuba who served the country from 1959 to 1976 and gained a reputation of an anti- ...
Write a short essay with regards to the leader in this study (200 to 500 words), on:
In 1959, Fidel Castro took over Cuba by force. Cuba was controlled by him under his dictation for nearly five decades. He was the focus of public dispute internationally because he was the only communist leader in the Western Hemisphere.
Between 1959 and 1960, Castro made radical changes in Cuba. He brought the industry under his ownership. He was a collectivist and brought agriculture under his ownership too. He seized businesses and farms owned by the Americans. Castro broke off diplomatic relations with the United States and established strong ties with the Soviet Union. Cuba then turned towards communism.
Castro passed laws to close down institutions that were against morality, such as casinos and night-clubs. All citizens received free education, removing the problem of illiteracy. He provided free health services to control the death rate of children from diseases. He also gave assistance to foreign revolutions in Angola and Ethiopia.
An example of his contribution is the benefits that the Soviets provided. Castro brought all American property under his ownership because of the United States’ decision to end supplies to Cuba. This led to the increase in dependence of Cuba on the Soviet Union. The Soviets bought large amounts of sugar and provided assistance to Cuba in terms of money and weaponries. With this source of income, Castro was thus able to provide free education and universal health care.
Castro’s leadership brought to the downfall to the nation. Under his rule as a dictator, hundreds of thousands of Cubans fled to the United States. His educational and land reforms benefitted some Cubans. However, there were still people who suffered from lack of food and personal freedoms. Following the downfall of the Soviet Union in 1991, Castro lost his source of help because of his heavy dependence on Soviet aid and trade. Cuba suffered economically in the 1990s with the US embargo against Cuba still in effect.
References:
http://history1900s.about.com/od/people/p/castro.htm
http://library.thinkquest.org/18355/fidel_castro.html
http://www.spartacus.schoolnet.co.uk/COLDcastroF.htm
It was out-of-classroom activity. Everyone were given different topic and we were supposed to write a report on it.
Q14. Fidel Castro
Fidel Castro is a revolutionary figure and former Prime Minister of Cuba who served the country from 1959 to 1976 and gained a reputation of an anti- ...
Write a short essay with regards to the leader in this study (200 to 500 words), on:
- His/her contribution to the nation
- One example of his contribution
- Did his/her leadership bring to the rise or downfall to the nation.
In 1959, Fidel Castro took over Cuba by force. Cuba was controlled by him under his dictation for nearly five decades. He was the focus of public dispute internationally because he was the only communist leader in the Western Hemisphere.
Between 1959 and 1960, Castro made radical changes in Cuba. He brought the industry under his ownership. He was a collectivist and brought agriculture under his ownership too. He seized businesses and farms owned by the Americans. Castro broke off diplomatic relations with the United States and established strong ties with the Soviet Union. Cuba then turned towards communism.
Castro passed laws to close down institutions that were against morality, such as casinos and night-clubs. All citizens received free education, removing the problem of illiteracy. He provided free health services to control the death rate of children from diseases. He also gave assistance to foreign revolutions in Angola and Ethiopia.
An example of his contribution is the benefits that the Soviets provided. Castro brought all American property under his ownership because of the United States’ decision to end supplies to Cuba. This led to the increase in dependence of Cuba on the Soviet Union. The Soviets bought large amounts of sugar and provided assistance to Cuba in terms of money and weaponries. With this source of income, Castro was thus able to provide free education and universal health care.
Castro’s leadership brought to the downfall to the nation. Under his rule as a dictator, hundreds of thousands of Cubans fled to the United States. His educational and land reforms benefitted some Cubans. However, there were still people who suffered from lack of food and personal freedoms. Following the downfall of the Soviet Union in 1991, Castro lost his source of help because of his heavy dependence on Soviet aid and trade. Cuba suffered economically in the 1990s with the US embargo against Cuba still in effect.
References:
http://history1900s.about.com/od/people/p/castro.htm
http://library.thinkquest.org/18355/fidel_castro.html
http://www.spartacus.schoolnet.co.uk/COLDcastroF.htm
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Activity (SWOT Analysis) (incomplete)
Week 15 - Tutorial
Today's activity is on SWOT Analysis. We learned about SWOT Analysis and did an activity on it.
(image)
We have learned this in Year 1 Semester 1 for our POM module, so the activity was relatively easy for us.
Today's activity is on SWOT Analysis. We learned about SWOT Analysis and did an activity on it.
(image)
We have learned this in Year 1 Semester 1 for our POM module, so the activity was relatively easy for us.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Tutorial 5 (Risk Assessment)
Week 14 - Tutorial
We were supposed to perform a risk assessment for our project and do a report on the top 2 risks. Since Thomas was not able to attend today's lesson, we stayed back after school yesterday (21/7/10) to do our tutorial.
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After comments from the teacher, we realised we were supposed to quantify our report. Since Thomas came up with most of the ideas for the risk assessment, the remaining 3 of us edited the report to add in quantities for the cost and schedule impacts. It was rather tedious because we had to make assumptions and calculate the individual impacts on cost.
We were supposed to perform a risk assessment for our project and do a report on the top 2 risks. Since Thomas was not able to attend today's lesson, we stayed back after school yesterday (21/7/10) to do our tutorial.
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After comments from the teacher, we realised we were supposed to quantify our report. Since Thomas came up with most of the ideas for the risk assessment, the remaining 3 of us edited the report to add in quantities for the cost and schedule impacts. It was rather tedious because we had to make assumptions and calculate the individual impacts on cost.
We have completed all 5 tutorials for this module. :)
Monday, July 19, 2010
Project Tracking and Closure
Week 14 - Lecture
Today's activity seemed like a summary of the whole semester's concepts.
The activities were quite simple and easily understood.
Time passed by really fast. It seemed like not long ago that we were briefed about our e-portfolio and now we have reached the lecture of project closure.
Today's activity seemed like a summary of the whole semester's concepts.
The activities were quite simple and easily understood.
Time passed by really fast. It seemed like not long ago that we were briefed about our e-portfolio and now we have reached the lecture of project closure.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Tutorial 4 (Microsoft Project & Activity-On-Node)
Week 13 - Tutorial
We used the derived WBS to create a schedule for the SHBT shoes, using Microsoft Projects. We assumed the durations and predecessors for each of the tasks.
We then performed AON using the stated assumptions.
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The work was not easy because we had to redo a few times. Our first try was too complicated and our second try was too simple. We will be arranging to edit our schedule and AON next Monday (19/7/10).
Update (19/7/10)
My group gathered to redo our project schedule and AON. Hopefully this time it will not be too simple nor too complicated :)
We used the derived WBS to create a schedule for the SHBT shoes, using Microsoft Projects. We assumed the durations and predecessors for each of the tasks.
We then performed AON using the stated assumptions.
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The work was not easy because we had to redo a few times. Our first try was too complicated and our second try was too simple. We will be arranging to edit our schedule and AON next Monday (19/7/10).
Update (19/7/10)
My group gathered to redo our project schedule and AON. Hopefully this time it will not be too simple nor too complicated :)
Monday, July 12, 2010
Cost Benefit Analysis & Break-Even Analysis
Week 13 - Lecture
Today's lesson was on Cost Benefit Analysis and Break-Even Analysis. We were given 3 examples and did it together as a class.
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The exercises were easy because we just had to apply the formulas and work out the answers.
Today's lesson was on Cost Benefit Analysis and Break-Even Analysis. We were given 3 examples and did it together as a class.
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The exercises were easy because we just had to apply the formulas and work out the answers.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Activity 6 (Project Cost Estimation) cont'd
Week 12 - Tutorial
The project cost estimation has been completed, the image will be shown in Week 11 Tutorial.
The project cost estimation has been completed, the image will be shown in Week 11 Tutorial.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Activity 6 (Project Cost Estimation)
Week 12 - Lecture
It was another activity on project cost estimation. Since we learned this in Week 11 Tutorial, it was easier this time. We also learned a new component called the Project Cost Summary. It was even easier because it was just a add-up of the costs in the facility costing table.
It was another activity on project cost estimation. Since we learned this in Week 11 Tutorial, it was easier this time. We also learned a new component called the Project Cost Summary. It was even easier because it was just a add-up of the costs in the facility costing table.
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Tutorial 3 (Project Cost Estimation)
Week 11 - Tutorial
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Continuing on from WBS that we did in Week 4 Tutorial, the branches in the mindmap were listed according to their top level division. My group discussed about the costs incurred for each task. However, we were not able to complete the tutorial in class because we did not have our WBS with us. Despite this, we tried to think of more ideas for our product and did as much work as we can during the lesson.
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Continuing on from WBS that we did in Week 4 Tutorial, the branches in the mindmap were listed according to their top level division. My group discussed about the costs incurred for each task. However, we were not able to complete the tutorial in class because we did not have our WBS with us. Despite this, we tried to think of more ideas for our product and did as much work as we can during the lesson.
MST Result & Activity 5 (Risk Management)
Week 11 - Lecture
We were given back our MST paper. I got 98/100, which was quite satisfying. :)
Lessons continued on as usual, and we did an activity on risk management.
It was not as easy as the previous few activities because it requires more thinking. However, with help from the teacher and classmates, we managed to finish it on time. Somehow, I feel that the exam will not be as easy since we struggled a little with this activity.
We were given back our MST paper. I got 98/100, which was quite satisfying. :)
Lessons continued on as usual, and we did an activity on risk management.
It was not as easy as the previous few activities because it requires more thinking. However, with help from the teacher and classmates, we managed to finish it on time. Somehow, I feel that the exam will not be as easy since we struggled a little with this activity.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Sample Paper
Week 7 - Tutorial
We were given a sample paper to do during lesson.
I find the paper relatively easy. The questions are straightforward and we were also allowed to refer to the powerpoint slides while doing it. However, we were told that the actual MST paper will not be as easy. The questions will be more difficult and we will not be able to refer to any notes.
We were given a sample paper to do during lesson.
I find the paper relatively easy. The questions are straightforward and we were also allowed to refer to the powerpoint slides while doing it. However, we were told that the actual MST paper will not be as easy. The questions will be more difficult and we will not be able to refer to any notes.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Microsoft Project, Activity-On-Node, MST Section B Revision
Week 6 - Tutorial
The given task was to build a billiard room. We did the scheduling on Microsoft Projects and a hard copy of the AON.
We were then given a practice question on AON for the MST.
The given task was to build a billiard room. We did the scheduling on Microsoft Projects and a hard copy of the AON.
We were then given a practice question on AON for the MST.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Activity 3 (Activity-On-Node - network diagram)
Week 6 - Lecture
We learnt AON and did exercises on network diagrams.
We learnt AON and did exercises on network diagrams.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Microsoft Project
Week 5 - Tutorial
We did an exercise on Microsoft Project. We converted the WBS for "Build a kitchen cabinet" into a Microsoft Project document.
We did an exercise on Microsoft Project. We converted the WBS for "Build a kitchen cabinet" into a Microsoft Project document.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Activity 2 (Work Breakdown Structure)
Week 5 - Lecture
We did an activity on WBS. The instructions were given on Google Doc and we were supposed to access it and complete our WBS.
We did an activity on WBS. The instructions were given on Google Doc and we were supposed to access it and complete our WBS.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Tutorial 2 (Work Breakdown Structure)
Week 4 - Tutorial
We were taught to do Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) using http://www.mindmeister.com.
We did WBS on building a kitchen cabinet as a practice. After understanding the concept of WBS, my group proceeded on to do WBS for our SHBT motorised shoe.
We did WBS on building a kitchen cabinet as a practice. After understanding the concept of WBS, my group proceeded on to do WBS for our SHBT motorised shoe.
Online Quiz
Week 4 - Lecture
The teacher created an account for us on Google. We had to assess the account to get the powerpoint slides for the lesson. The quiz was also done in class. The questions were relatively easy as the answers can be found in the powerpoint slides. However, this method of teaching is not good because we can easily edit the files that are being used during the lecture.
Out-Of-Classroom Activity 1(OOC1)
Week 3 - Lecture
I feel that there are failures in project management partly because of ineffective project managers. Project managers have to be firm in their stand and be capable of executing orders. If a project manager is afraid of offending others and not able to carry out his duties as a leader, there is a very high possibility that the project will not succeed. This is because the project manager will lose his respect from others and no one will take his words seriously.
There are also failures in project management because of inadequate user inputs. Although there is a team of people selected to work on the project, not all of them may have the necessary skills required to complete the project. If the project team is technically incompetent, it is very hard to assign the right people to complete the task as they will not be able to do the task effectively if they do not know how to. Also, the team members may not have sufficient enthusiasm in carrying out the project. The lack of enthusiasm will reduce the amount of efforts that they are willing to put in the project. They will not be able to efficiently complete the allocated tasks because they are not motivated.
In 1998, an independent research company, Spikes Cavell, conducted a survey in the UK to identify the major causes of IT project failure in the finance sector. All the 203 managers interviewed had previously taken the lead in integrating large systems within organizations in the Times Top 100. The survey revealed that some of the causes of project failure during the lifecycle of the project are a breakdown in communications, a lack of planning and cost getting out of hand.
Firstly, projects fail because the team members are not able to communicate effectively with one another. A team needs to be cooperative in order to efficiently and effectively complete the project. If there conflicts arise among the members, they will delay the schedule of the project. The failure to agree with one another will cause disruption in the task completion because they cannot decide on the best possible way to do the job. If they are not able to resolve their differences, this breakdown in communications will eventually lead to the project failing.
Secondly, projects fail because many project teams often skip the planning procedures and jump straight into carrying out the tasks. Project planning is important as it provides the project manager with a roadmap ahead and ensures that the team is on the right track. If there is a lack of planning, the project team will become disorganized and lose track of what they are doing. The lack of task allocation may result in overlapped tasks, which will lead to conflicts arising among the team members. They will not be able to complete their tasks on time and this will result in loss of time, money and resources that are spent on the project.
Lastly, projects fail because of the failure to efficiently carry out the project tasks. This is also partly because of poor planning. As the project progresses on, there are bound to be changes made to the specifications. This will lead to changes in the cost incurred as a result of the task requirements. The amount of resources provided by the sponsors may become inadequate as the cost increases. It can also be because the sponsors do not provide sufficient resources that are vital for the project completion. This will hinder the progress of the project and eventually lead to failure if the sponsor refuses to provide more necessary resources.
Failures in project management can lead to great consequences. The cost incurred in the period of the project will be lost and the company will make losses due to the dropping of the projects. This can threaten the company’s corporate survival. Project failure also put the company’s reputation at risk. This will affect the company’s competitive edge and put it behind its other competitors in the business sector.
The following is an example of a failed project and suggestions on saving the project if there was proper project management.
A team is weeks behind on their project that was already due. The client convinced them to push the due date up to an earlier deadline. The team now works overtime frequently in order to meet the new deadline. However, many mistakes and absences of team members caused the project to fail because the client eventually dropped the company. This was because the project manager was flexible about deadlines and allowed the client to negotiate timing on the project. By overworking resources, the members burned out and stress caused health problems. A suggestion to prevent a similar case from happening is to set a realistic schedule and to stick with it. It is important to always have a schedule to stick to in order to ensure good progress.
In conclusion, there are times when failures are inevitable in project management. Such failures can only be prevented when everyone cooperate and do their part to carry out the project in an efficient and effective manner.
It was out-of-classroom activity. Everyone were given different topic and we were supposed to write a report on it.
Why do you think there are failures in project management? State three reasons why projects fail.
Project management is the discipline of planning, organizing, and managing resources to bring about the successful completion of specific project goals and objectives. Thousands of people have spent their entire life-time pursuing project management. They spent millions of dollars on their projects in order to do it the right way and not fail. However, there are not many cases of success as many projects ended up failing.
Project management is the discipline of planning, organizing, and managing resources to bring about the successful completion of specific project goals and objectives. Thousands of people have spent their entire life-time pursuing project management. They spent millions of dollars on their projects in order to do it the right way and not fail. However, there are not many cases of success as many projects ended up failing.
I feel that there are failures in project management partly because of ineffective project managers. Project managers have to be firm in their stand and be capable of executing orders. If a project manager is afraid of offending others and not able to carry out his duties as a leader, there is a very high possibility that the project will not succeed. This is because the project manager will lose his respect from others and no one will take his words seriously.
There are also failures in project management because of inadequate user inputs. Although there is a team of people selected to work on the project, not all of them may have the necessary skills required to complete the project. If the project team is technically incompetent, it is very hard to assign the right people to complete the task as they will not be able to do the task effectively if they do not know how to. Also, the team members may not have sufficient enthusiasm in carrying out the project. The lack of enthusiasm will reduce the amount of efforts that they are willing to put in the project. They will not be able to efficiently complete the allocated tasks because they are not motivated.
In 1998, an independent research company, Spikes Cavell, conducted a survey in the UK to identify the major causes of IT project failure in the finance sector. All the 203 managers interviewed had previously taken the lead in integrating large systems within organizations in the Times Top 100. The survey revealed that some of the causes of project failure during the lifecycle of the project are a breakdown in communications, a lack of planning and cost getting out of hand.
Firstly, projects fail because the team members are not able to communicate effectively with one another. A team needs to be cooperative in order to efficiently and effectively complete the project. If there conflicts arise among the members, they will delay the schedule of the project. The failure to agree with one another will cause disruption in the task completion because they cannot decide on the best possible way to do the job. If they are not able to resolve their differences, this breakdown in communications will eventually lead to the project failing.
Secondly, projects fail because many project teams often skip the planning procedures and jump straight into carrying out the tasks. Project planning is important as it provides the project manager with a roadmap ahead and ensures that the team is on the right track. If there is a lack of planning, the project team will become disorganized and lose track of what they are doing. The lack of task allocation may result in overlapped tasks, which will lead to conflicts arising among the team members. They will not be able to complete their tasks on time and this will result in loss of time, money and resources that are spent on the project.
Lastly, projects fail because of the failure to efficiently carry out the project tasks. This is also partly because of poor planning. As the project progresses on, there are bound to be changes made to the specifications. This will lead to changes in the cost incurred as a result of the task requirements. The amount of resources provided by the sponsors may become inadequate as the cost increases. It can also be because the sponsors do not provide sufficient resources that are vital for the project completion. This will hinder the progress of the project and eventually lead to failure if the sponsor refuses to provide more necessary resources.
Failures in project management can lead to great consequences. The cost incurred in the period of the project will be lost and the company will make losses due to the dropping of the projects. This can threaten the company’s corporate survival. Project failure also put the company’s reputation at risk. This will affect the company’s competitive edge and put it behind its other competitors in the business sector.
The following is an example of a failed project and suggestions on saving the project if there was proper project management.
A team is weeks behind on their project that was already due. The client convinced them to push the due date up to an earlier deadline. The team now works overtime frequently in order to meet the new deadline. However, many mistakes and absences of team members caused the project to fail because the client eventually dropped the company. This was because the project manager was flexible about deadlines and allowed the client to negotiate timing on the project. By overworking resources, the members burned out and stress caused health problems. A suggestion to prevent a similar case from happening is to set a realistic schedule and to stick with it. It is important to always have a schedule to stick to in order to ensure good progress.
In conclusion, there are times when failures are inevitable in project management. Such failures can only be prevented when everyone cooperate and do their part to carry out the project in an efficient and effective manner.
Tutorial 1 (Project Objectives and Scoping)
Week 2 - Tutorial
My group got together for a discussion on our project objectives and scoping of the project.
My group got together for a discussion on our project objectives and scoping of the project.
Our Product
Week 1 - Tutorial
My group came together for a discussion during lesson time to think of a product. After coming up with a few ideas, we came to a consensus.
The product we have decided on is SHBT motorised shoes.
SHBT is our initials put together (Sabrina, Hui Hui, Benjamin Chua, Thomas).
People nowadays are getting lazier and we have decided to resolve this problem. Our objective is to speed up everyday's walking by providing a clean and easy solution. Our motorised shoes allow users to get to their destination without much efforts and hassle. When users put on our motorised shoes, they can control it easily with our user friendly remote control that comes in the shape of a pen. The remote control has a lock function to prevent users from pressing the buttons accidentally or unecessarily.
Upon turning on the motor of the shoes, the shoes will move with the help of threads (refer to diagram) attached to the bottom of the shoes. Users can control it to switch directions simply by turning their feet towards their desired direction. They can also use the reverse function that can be found on remote control.
There are openings by the sides of the shoes for ventilation. This allows the shoes to cool down from the heat of the motor. Our design includes our brand name "SHBT" at the front of the shoes and a lightning symbol by the side of the shoes to symbolise the speediness of our shoes.
My group came together for a discussion during lesson time to think of a product. After coming up with a few ideas, we came to a consensus.
The product we have decided on is SHBT motorised shoes.
SHBT is our initials put together (Sabrina, Hui Hui, Benjamin Chua, Thomas).
People nowadays are getting lazier and we have decided to resolve this problem. Our objective is to speed up everyday's walking by providing a clean and easy solution. Our motorised shoes allow users to get to their destination without much efforts and hassle. When users put on our motorised shoes, they can control it easily with our user friendly remote control that comes in the shape of a pen. The remote control has a lock function to prevent users from pressing the buttons accidentally or unecessarily.
Upon turning on the motor of the shoes, the shoes will move with the help of threads (refer to diagram) attached to the bottom of the shoes. Users can control it to switch directions simply by turning their feet towards their desired direction. They can also use the reverse function that can be found on remote control.
There are openings by the sides of the shoes for ventilation. This allows the shoes to cool down from the heat of the motor. Our design includes our brand name "SHBT" at the front of the shoes and a lightning symbol by the side of the shoes to symbolise the speediness of our shoes.
Hello =D
Week 1 - Lecture
We were told to create an e-portfolio, which I have delayed till week 4 to start on it.
At first, I did not know what to do for it. After the teacher showed us some of the classmates' portfolio, I got a rough idea (though I'm still not sure, the instructions can be much much clearer).
I've finally created this blog (-.-) and will start to upload stuffs from the tutorials if the teacher even remember to return us our work.
We were told to create an e-portfolio, which I have delayed till week 4 to start on it.
At first, I did not know what to do for it. After the teacher showed us some of the classmates' portfolio, I got a rough idea (though I'm still not sure, the instructions can be much much clearer).
I've finally created this blog (-.-) and will start to upload stuffs from the tutorials if the teacher even remember to return us our work.
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