Module 1
Lesson 2
Projects vs. Operations
Understanding the critical differences between project work and ongoing operations, and why it matters for project managers.
0:000:00
Projects vs. Operations
What You'll Learn
The 6 Key Differences
Learn how projects and operations differ in duration, purpose, team structure, management approach, budget, and change vs. stability.
Project or Operation?
Practice identifying whether work activities are projects or operations through 8 real-world examples.
The Lifecycle Connection
Understand how projects create new capabilities that operations then maintain and sustain.
Why This Distinction Matters
Learn why managing projects like operations (or vice versa) leads to failure and wasted resources.
Key Takeaways
- •Projects are temporary and create unique deliverables; Operations are ongoing and produce repetitive outputs
- •Projects use cross-functional temporary teams; operations use permanent departmental staff
- •Projects drive change; operations maintain stability
- •Projects have a defined end; operations continue indefinitely
- •Both are essential: Projects create new capabilities, operations keep them running
- •Understanding the difference helps you manage each appropriately with the right success metrics
Downloadable Resources
Discussion Questions
Reflect on these as you watch the lesson
- Think of a project you've been involved in. What made it a project rather than ongoing operations?
- Have you seen someone try to manage a project like an operation (or vice versa)? What happened?
- List 3 operations and 3 projects from your workplace. What are the key differences between them?
Your Progress
Video Progress0%
Lesson Status
In Progress
Video Duration
7:34
Module 1 Lessons
Lesson 1
Introduction to PM
Lesson 2
Projects vs Operations
Lesson Stats
Duration7:34
Resources3 files
TypeVideo
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