Subproject

A subproject, also known as a sub-task or sub-project, is a smaller project that is part of a larger project. It is a way to break down a large project into smaller, more manageable parts.

Each subproject has its own objectives, deliverables, and timelines, and is usually led by a subproject manager. The subproject manager is responsible for ensuring that the subproject is completed on time, within budget, and meets the desired quality standards.

Subprojects are often used in situations where a large project has many complex components or where the project is too large to be managed by a single project manager. By breaking the project down into smaller parts, it allows for better management, coordination and control of the project.

The subprojects are connected and aligned to the overall project objectives and goals. The progress of each subproject is tracked and reported to the main project manager, who is responsible for ensuring that all subprojects are on track and that the overall project is progressing as planned.

In summary, subproject is a smaller project that is part of a larger project and it is useful to break down a large project into smaller and manageable parts, allowing for better management, coordination and control of the project.

The project can be divided into subprojects, which include some elements of project (phase of installation, testing, etc.). Subproject is generally associated with a particular complex task or activity, although it is possible that it will relate to some tangible result (product).

Subproject can be dedicated to a different department of the organization, but also to a completely different organization. In such situation, the risk of the project increase, because we do not have the full supervision of the subcontractor (time, quality), as well as the risk that our trade secrets will be taken over by the competition.

See also:

• Types of projects

Examples of Subproject

• Developing a new software system: A software development project might include many subprojects, such as designing user interfaces, coding the application, and testing the system.
• Building a house: Building a house could include subprojects such as laying the foundation, framing, plumbing, and electrical wiring.
• Planning a wedding: Planning a wedding could include subprojects such as finding a venue, booking a caterer, buying decorations, and hiring a photographer.
• Writing a book: Writing a book can be broken down into subprojects such as researching the topic, outlining the content, writing the chapters, and formatting the book.

Advantages of Subproject

Subprojects can be an effective way to manage a large project, as they provide the following advantages:

• They help to break down the project into smaller, easier-to-manage tasks. This allows the project manager to better define the scope and objectives of the project, as well as to better control the resources and time required for completion.
• They help to provide structure and focus to the project, allowing the project manager to prioritize tasks and delegate responsibilities to the appropriate team members.
• They also help to reduce risk, as the project can be broken into smaller tasks with shorter timelines, reducing the risk of any single task failing to be completed.
• Finally, they help to ensure that the project is moving forward effectively, as all tasks can be tracked and monitored, and progress can be measured.

Limitations of Subproject

Subprojects can be a useful way to break down a large project into more manageable pieces, but there are a few limitations to be aware of. These include:

• Limited resources: Subprojects can often be limited in the amount of resources they can access, meaning they may not have the same access to resources as the larger project.
• Limited time: Subprojects often have a limited time frame, meaning they may not have the same time frame as the larger project.
• Limited scope: Subprojects may have a limited scope, meaning they may not have the same scope of activities as the larger project.
• Limited visibility: Subprojects may not be as visible as the larger project, making it difficult to track progress and measure success.
• Difficulty in coordination: Subprojects may be difficult to coordinate, as they may involve multiple teams or stakeholders with different priorities and expectations.

Other approaches related to Subproject

A subproject is a smaller project that is part of a larger project, and there are several other approaches related to it. These include:

• Breakdown structure: This is a hierarchical chart that breaks down the project into smaller, more manageable tasks. It is used to identify the resources needed and the order in which tasks must be completed.
• Cost Estimation: This is a method used to estimate the cost of a project. It takes into account the resources needed and the time required for the completion of the project.
• Scheduling: This is the process of determining the sequence in which tasks must be completed. It is used to ensure that the project is completed in a timely manner.
• Risk Management: This is the process of identifying and assessing potential risks associated with the project. It is used to make sure that the project is carried out in a safe and effective manner.

In summary, a subproject is a smaller project that is part of a larger project, and there are several other approaches related to it, including breakdown structure, cost estimation, scheduling and risk management. These approaches are used to ensure that the project is completed on time and within budget.

Subproject — recommended articles

Work breakdown structure (WBS) — Life cycle project management — Construction project — Project scope — Life cycle approach — Management of complexity — Project life cycle stages — Successful project management — Organizational project management

References

• Cash, C. H., & Fox II, R. (1992). Elements of successful project management. Journal of Systems Management, 43(9), 10.
• Cooke‐Davies, T. J., Crawford, L. H., & Lechler, T. G. (2009). Project management systems: Moving project management from an operational to a strategic discipline. Project Management Journal, 40(1), 110-123.
• Kerzner, H. R. (2013). Project management: a systems approach to planning, scheduling, and controlling. John Wiley & Sons.
• PMI (2001). Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® GUIDE). In Project Management Institute.