Spring 2025 - Project Management - Custom Software Development for Global Workflow Optimization

🧩 Custom Software Development for Global Workflow Optimization
Course: Project Management (PJM-340)
Term: Spring 2025
Role: Project Director / Manager
Tools Used: Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), Gantt Chart, Risk Register, Issue Log

Project Overview
In this capstone-style assignment, I assumed the role of Project Manager for a high-stakes initiative to develop a custom software platform — built on ABC Workflow v3.0 — for XYZ Financial Services, a global financial firm. The goal was to replace several outdated applications with a centralized, scalable solution that would enhance workflow efficiency and standardize operations across international offices.

This project simulated a real-world development scenario requiring planning, coordination, and stakeholder communication across departments and time zones.

Key Objectives:
Develop new features tailored to financial workflows

Overhaul and modernize the user interface (UI)

Implement a streamlined deployment strategy

Mitigate risks associated with scope creep, integration, and timeline overruns

Foster cross-team collaboration and communication across global locations

Deliverables & Tools:
Work Breakdown Structure (WBS): Broke down the project into detailed, manageable components across development, testing, deployment, and training phases

Project Timeline & Milestones: Mapped from March 1, 2025, to projected end March 26, 2026

Risk Register: Proactively identified and rated risks involving resource shortages, unclear requirements, and technology gaps

Issue Log: Tracked open issues and assigned mitigation strategies with stakeholder alignment

Action Plan: Focused on strengthening monitoring, optimizing resource allocation, and enforcing quality assurance best practices

What I Learned:
How to lead a project from concept to execution using industry-standard tools and frameworks

The importance of early risk identification and communication in global, multi-stakeholder settings

How structured methodologies (like WBS and issue logs) improve visibility and accountability

That clear documentation and adaptive strategy are just as vital as technical execution

Reflection:
This project refined my ability to think like a strategist and problem-solver. I learned how to align timelines, teams, and technologies toward a common vision — while preparing for real-world uncertainty. The experience sharpened my skills in project scoping, stakeholder engagement, and data-driven decision-making, all of which I carry into my work as an analyst and collaborator.