The final assignment for this course is a Research Paper.
The purpose of the Research Paper is for you to culminate the learning achieved
in the course by describing your understanding and application of knowledge in
the field of program management strategy. The Research Paper represents 23% of
the overall course grade.
Focus of the Research Paper
This final research paper must demonstrate the understanding
of new learning in the field of project management and how it relates to the
Project Management Maturity Model. This is an assignment with a length of 10-
to 15- pages (not including title and reference pages) that should integrate
the reading, multi-media and class discussion boards. It is mandatory to have
research from the classroom text, as well as at least 4 sources from the
internet or online library to support your views. A minimum of 2 of these
sources must be from the Ashford Online Library.
Consider the validity of your resources carefully before
using them in academic papers. It is recommended to use examples from your
professional experience where possible, or build from your learning in the
discussion boards. Use at least one project you have been a team member or a
project manager as an example to discuss each of the following topics:
•The definition of the Project Management Maturity Model and
how organizations can increase their overall productivity using the model.
•The importance of organizational strategy and how project
management needs to link to objectives to achieve results.
•Project communication methods including who the
stakeholders are and why they are important to the project manager.
•The use of project quality, including earned value
analysis, and examples of successful and troubled projects.
•A conclusion to describe how the probability of success can
be found with an organization that is able to reach maturity in terms of
project management.
Writing the Research Paper
The Research Paper:
•Must be ten to fifteen double-spaced pages in length, and
formatted according to APA style as outlined in the Writing Center.
•Must include a title page with the following:
•Title of paper ?Student’s name
?Course name and number
?Instructor’s name
?Date submitted
•Must begin with an introductory paragraph that has a
succinct thesis statement.
•Must address the topic of the paper with critical thought.
•Must end with a conclusion that reaffirms your thesis.
•Must use at least five scholarly sources, including a
minimum of two from the Library.
•Must document all sources in APA style, as outlined in the
Writing Center.
•Must include a separate reference page, formatted according
to APA
