Project plan

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Can you create a summary that identifies the project, the recommendation and expected results in high level business and financial terms? Please explain how you arrived at these conclusions

Microsoft is one of the largest computer software organization in the world having revenues of more than $45 bn annually. It has got a monopoly in operating software industry and is providing a wide variety of software and ecommerce services and products. This includes operating systems for personal computers (PGs) and servers; server applications for client/server environments; business and consumer productivity applications; software development tools; and Internet and intranet software and technologies. The company has expanded its interactive content efforts, including NSN (the Microsoft Network online service), various Internet-based services, and entertainment and information software programs. Microsoft also sells PC books and input devices, and it researches and develops advanced technologies for the future software products.

http://finance.yahoo.com/q/pr?s=MSFT

This project is about a new hand held computer based remote for running Zune. The device will work without the need for being attached to a TV or docking station, audio, video or photos and will become a prototype for future remote controls.
Thus in order to compete with Apple, Zune has not only to be more competitive in pricing but also offer unique services and features. This handheld device will help in gaining market share in the industry. Thus it is expected to become market leader within two years and a positive NPV of the project as highlighted in the project. We are confident of these results due to our unique product features and our belief in continuous innovation in the quality. Our TQM principles will lead in improving the quality of people, process and any other aspect of management. This will help in meeting the objectives and attaining the customer delight.

- What do you think would be a good project description and strategic vision including a statement of the end results expected from the attached project and how they align with these goals

Projects are used today as a way of achieving a variety of outcomes- in local or international locations for new constructions, new product development product improvement, process design, process improvement, utility installation, theory and technology development, and many more. Bringing a project to a successful conclusion requires the integration of numerous management functions like controlling, directing, team building, communication and others. It also requires
cost and schedule management, technical and risk management, conflict and stakeholders management, life cycle management (My past papers)

Microsoft's Zune remote will help in giving Microsoft an edge over its competitors due to its superior functionalities. Multiple capabilities of this new Zune remote will empower it to function like a light weight mini computer in the user's hands.
Thus the project description is to develop a multi- utility remote hand held device for Zune to increase the customer delight.

The vision is to "Give superior products and services to the customers through continuous innovation"

This is in sync with our goals of becoming the market leader in the computer industry. There is already intense competition with Apple, Nokia, Samsung, Sony, etc in this segment. This will help us in giving an edge over our rivals. This is because the new Zune remote device will be the first of its kind in the world. This will help the Microsoft to have a stronger market positioning and a potential market share capture compared to its competitors.

- Which technologies (i.e. software, hardware) did you select and why. How will these be implemented (i.e. outsourcing, in-house, partnering, etc.)

Microsoft will use of combination of outsourcing, joint venture and in house development in order to produce superior device but having low cost. Krajewski and Ritzman (2002) define outsourcing as "allotting work to suppliers and distributors to provide needed services and materials and to perform those processes that the organization does not perform itself." While such a definition is easy to comprehend, knowing when and how to outsource is much more complex. When thinking about outsourcing, modern businesses must consider not only functions traditionally outsourced but also their rapidly evolving information technology (IT) requirements.
Advantages of outsourcing:
? Reduce capital investment: Supplier reaps the benefit of higher demand to pay for capital and aggregation of demand to smooth uncertainty.
? Focus on Core Competency: ...