1.3.2.

1
Lessons learnt
During our simulated project using Sim4Projects, we gained valuable lessons that we will carry with
us in future endeavours. Firstly, we learned how to create a project scope statement and structure it
effectively, which helped us to better define the project's objectives and deliverables. Additionally,
we learned the importance of setting milestones in a project and how they serve as a helpful tool to
track progress and keep the team on track.
We also learned about the work breakdown structure and how it provides a clear framework for the
project's tasks and sub-tasks, which helps to ensure that nothing is overlooked. Furthermore, we
gained a deeper understanding of the importance of identifying and documenting all technical
requirements of a project, which allows for more accurate planning and better risk management.
Developing customer approval procedures was another valuable lesson we learned during the
project, which helped us to understand how it is possible to establish clear lines of communication
with clients and ensure that their needs and expectations were met. We also learned how to develop
a baseline project plan and project budget, which are crucial aspects of effective project
management. Creating a project baseline plan was a valuable lesson that we learned during the
simulated project. We realized that having a clear baseline plan provides a framework for the
project's execution and allows for effective monitoring of progress. By creating a baseline plan early
on in the project, we were able to establish a starting point for our project plan and keep track of any
deviations that occurred along the way. We also learned that it's important to regularly review and
update the baseline plan to ensure that it remains relevant and reflective of the project's current
status.
Similarly, creating a project budget was also an important lesson that we learned during the
simulated project. We found that developing a comprehensive project budget helped us to identify
potential areas of cost overrun and plan for contingencies. By tracking actual expenses against the
budget, we were able to identify where we needed to make adjustments and allocate resources
more effectively. We also learned that it's important to continually monitor the budget and adjust it
as necessary to ensure that the project stays on track financially.
The importance of resource allocation was also highlighted during the project, as we learned how
critical it is to assign resources appropriately and allocate them in a way that maximizes team
efficiency. Additionally, we gained insights into risk identification and contingencies, which showed us
how to prepare for unexpected events and ensure that the project stays on track even when things
don't go as planned.
Multidisciplinary collaboration was another key aspect of the project, as we learned how to
incorporate different perspectives and skill sets into our team's functionality to achieve the best
results. We also developed our multitasking skills, which helped us to meet deadlines and complete
different aspects of the assignment effectively.
Finally, we learned how to use MS Project to track project progress and manage the project more
effectively, which allowed us to stay on top of tasks and ensure that the project was completed on
time and within budget. Overall, the simulation provided us with a wealth of lessons and insights
that we will use in our future projects, and we feel confident that we can apply these lessons to
achieve greater success in future endeavours.
Reflecting on our experience in the simulated project and considering how we might improve our
management of a real-life team, there are a few things that we might do differently: Firstly, we would
establish clearer lines of communication, During the simulated project, we encountered some
miscommunication among team members, which led to confusion and delays. In the future, we
would establish clearer communication channels and ensure that everyone is on the same page
regarding project goals, deadlines, and expectations. We recognize the importance of communicating
project goals, deadlines, and expectations effectively to ensure that everyone is on the same page.
Secondly, we would be more proactive in identifying risks and developing contingency plans to
mitigate them. We believe that prioritizing risk management is crucial to the success of any project,
which would prevent the cost overrun issue we currently have.
Thirdly, we would allocate resources more effectively, we found that we were sometimes short on
resources during the simulated project, which led to delays and reduced productivity. In the future,
we would prioritize resource allocation and ensure that we have the necessary resources, such as
personnel and equipment, to complete the project on time and within budget.
Fourthly, we would utilize project management tools more effectively to monitor progress, identify
bottlenecks, and adjust the project plan as necessary. While we used MS Projects to manage the
simulated project, we could have used it more effectively to monitor progress, identify bottlenecks,
and adjust the project plan as necessary. In the future, we would prioritize the effective use of
project management tools to maximize productivity and ensure that the project is completed on
time as we recognize that the effective use of project management tools can help maximize
productivity and ensure that the project is completed on time.
Finally, we would improve time management by prioritizing tasks and delegating responsibilities
effectively. We recognize that effective time management is crucial to meeting project deadlines. By
addressing these areas for improvement, we believe that we could more effectively manage a real-
life team and ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the expected level
of quality.
Working together as a multi-disciplinary team allowed us to approach the simulated project from a
variety of perspectives, which ultimately led to a more well-rounded and comprehensive final result.
However, as with any team, we encountered challenges related to managing team dynamics as a
result of our different personalities and skill sets.
One key challenge we faced was ensuring effective communication among team members. We found
that our different backgrounds sometimes led to differences in terminology or understanding of
project requirements, which required extra effort to clarify and reconcile. We also had to learn to be
patient with each other as we navigated the learning curve associated with working across
disciplines.
Another challenge we faced was balancing workload and ensuring that everyone was able to
contribute to the project in a meaningful way. Given our different skill sets, we had to work to
identify the strengths of each team member and allocate tasks accordingly. This required a degree of
flexibility and openness to adjusting our initial assumptions about roles and responsibilities.
Overall, we feel that working as a multi-disciplinary team allowed us to leverage a range of skills and
expertise to produce a high-quality project outcome. However, we recognize that effective
communication and workload management are key to successful collaboration, and we will continue
to reflect on our experiences as we move forward as a team.

1.3.2.2
Individual
During this simulated project, I had the opportunity to work with a group of engineers from various
disciplines, including electrical and civil engineering. As a chemical engineer, I was able to contribute
my knowledge and expertise. However, working in a multi-disciplinary team environment also
challenged me to develop new skills and perspectives that I may not have otherwise considered.
Through this experience, I learned the importance of effective communication and collaboration. I
realized that it was essential to actively listen to my teammates' perspectives and be open to new
ideas. Additionally, I recognized the need for effective time management and planning, as different
team members had varying workloads and schedules.
In terms of contributions, I think I was able to bring a unique perspective as a chemical engineer.
However, I also recognized the importance of being open to the ideas and perspectives of other team
members, regardless of their discipline. I believe that this helped us to create a well-rounded and
comprehensive project plan.
Looking back on this experience, I would do a few things differently if I were to work in a multi-
disciplinary team again. Firstly, I would aim to establish clearer communication channels from the
beginning of the project, to avoid any potential miscommunications or misunderstandings and would
aim to be more proactive in identifying potential areas of conflict and working to resolve them early
on. Additionally, I would make a greater effort to learn more about my teammates' areas of
expertise, to better understand how they could contribute to the project and how we could work
together more effectively.
Throughout this project, I observed a variety of skills and perspectives from my fellow engineers that
I believe could be valuable in future projects. Team members showed a large attention to detail
which induced my skills in striving to be more meticulous and thorough in my own work as a
chemical engineer, recognizing the importance of attention to detail in ensuring project success.
Additionally, other members, demonstrated excellent communication and interpersonal skills, which
were instrumental in managing team dynamics and ensuring that everyone was on the same page. I
learned the importance of clear and effective communication in team management and project
execution, and I plan to incorporate this into my own skillset moving forward.
Looking ahead, the key to successful project execution in a multi-disciplinary team lies in combining
the strengths of the various disciplines and team members. This means being open-minded,
collaborative, and willing to work together towards a common goal. By leveraging the unique
perspectives and skill sets of each team member, we can create more innovative and comprehensive
solutions that meet the needs of all stakeholders involved in the project. In the future, I would strive
to combine the strengths of different disciplines and individuals to ensure successful project
execution by actively seeking out different perspectives and ideas, developing clear communication
channels, and establishing a collaborative and respectful team culture.