PRACTICAL PROJECT MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME

The Practical Project Management Programme (PPM) is a 12-month programme, which is highly sought-after
in the marketplace as it equips entry-level managers with the skills to transform ideas into successful projects or ventures.
Since its introduction in 1993 the programme has increasingly been updated to meet market needs. Its aim is to
provide practical experience and knowledge in project management and it is designed to ensure that theoretical
infrastructure complements practice.

Programme Details

The programme is presented over one year.

Programme Modules

Module 1: Project planning

The module enables students to understand the dynamics and principles involved in the development, management
and implementation of projects with emphasis on planning.

Introduction to project management

The project managers role

Project planning

Project planning techniques

Scope management

Work breakdown structure management

Module 2: Managing people

The module develops knowledge, understanding and insight into the human factors impacting on the success
of project teams.

Human factors

Project teams

Project conflict
- Types of conflict
- Joint problem solving

PPM

Practical Project Management Programme

Module 3: Supply chain management

Students develop the competencies to manage the supply chain in projects.

Basic concepts in material management

Planning and control in supply chain

Management of improvements in supply chain

Module 4: Cost management

The module enables students to apply and utilise various cost management techniques.

Role of financial management

Financial feasibility analysis

Ranking prospective projects

Cost, budgeting and variance analysis

Payback period

Return on investment

Nett present value

Internal rate of return

Cash flow analysis

Risk and uncertainty

Module 5: Project scheduling and control

The module enables learners to implement, manage and control single projects.

Resource estimates and forecasts

Project scheduling

Project control

The concept of uncertainty

- Uncertainty
- Resources, estimates and forecasts
- Management by exception

Project audits

Techniques for maximisation of wealth

Value analysis

Module 6: Labour law and contracts

The labour and contract law module ensures that students are equipped with the knowledge to understand the basics
of contracts within the framework of South Africas labour law.

Basic principles of the law of contract

Basic principles of negotiation and alternative dispute resolution

Underlying principles of mediation and arbitration, and the hybrid processes of alternative dispute resolution

Selected aspects of the Employment Equity Act

Selected aspects of the Labour Relations Act

Selected aspects of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act

The responsibilities employers have towards their employees in terms of the Occupational Health and Safety Act,
Compensation for Occupational Injury and Diseases Act and the Unemployment Insurance Fund Act.

Assessment

Formative assessment (assignments)

The residential and self-tuition components of the programme are supported by two study group assignments. Group
assignments count towards a year mark, which forms part of the final evaluation of the student. This will give students
time to assimilate the theoretical and practical principles learnt and give them the opportunity to apply these principles
in a working environment.
Summative assessment (examinations)
An open-book exam will be written. A sub-minimum of 40% must be obtained in the exam for the module and a final,
weighted average mark of at least 50% for the whole module, where the weights for the final marks are as follows:

Examination mark 60%

Year mark

40%

On the successful completion of the programme, students will receive the Practical Project Management (PPM) Certificate
from the Unisa Graduate School of Business Leadership (SBL), an internationally respected educational institution.

PPM

Practical Project Management Programme

Admission Requirements

Applicants must have a Senior Certificate and at least three years work experience.

Admission is granted on the understanding that students are able to attend syndicate group meetings and the compulsory
study schools at the SBL in Midrand.

Apply well in advance to ensure admission. The application form is available in this brochure or visit the
SBL website: www.unisa.ac.za/sbl, a clear photocopy of the form can also be used.

Duration of the Programme

12 months