BSA 375 Week _2 DQ 3

							                                                                 BSA 375 Week #2 DQ 3            1

Week 2 DQ 3- Based on Perkin's (2007) article, list five reasons why projects fail. Provide an
example of a project failure.
        The article provides numerous examples of why projects fail. The following list includes
five reasons:
   1) Poor business Case – Business cases may be described in to braid terms leading to
      immeasurable goals. In many instances suggested business cases expire and are no longer
      valid. Recalculating proposed business plans will ensure projects fit market expectations.
   2) Project is too big - Lack of dedicated resources especially with large projects requires
      extensive planning and dedication. Key people needed to complete projects can become
      preoccupied with other responsibilities.
   3) Cultural conflict – Violating cultural standards can lead to project failure because of
      public resistance.
   4) New technology – Untested or unapproved technology can lead to project failure by not
      meeting the needs of intended users.
   5) Arbitrary release date – Projects often failure as a result of predetermined expectation
      dates. In order for a project to be successful business must adequately evaluate progress,
      validity and usability.


    In 1985 the Coca Cola Company experienced a colossal project failure by replacing the
original formula with a new and improved Coke. The drink was marketed under the same name
Coke but had new advertising campaigns. Public reaction to the new formula was poor. The
introduction of the new Coke formula failed because of the five examples I provide above. The
project was too big and ignored cultural acceptance of the original product. Furthermore, the new
technology or mixture was not sufficiently approved by Coke customers. The pressure to release
the product by a specific date also contributed to the project failure. In all the business case
ignored the indicated market potential and Pepsi capitalized on Coke’s mishap.