Harry C. Dahl

Alt Title

A study of the use of project managers in the microwave communications industry

Publication Date

1968

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

First Advisor

Sims, Clarence A.||Green, Gerald G.

Degree Name

M.S. (Master of Science)

Legacy Department

Department of Management

LCSH

Microwave communication systems--Management

Abstract

Microwave communications contracts involve total systems responsibility with a large amount of control and coordination required among departments and subcontractors. The ratio of "expected" to "actual" profit margin on each contract is determined, to a large extent, by the degree of efficiency attained in this coordination and control aspect. This study evaluates the various methods used for coordination and control of microwave communications projects. A detailed investigation was made relative to large projects to determine how the Project Manager concept was utilized by a large microwave firm and the benefits realized with this procedure. Data for this study was obtained primarily from a large micro- wave firm located in the midwest. Data consisted of documents, files, and personal interviews with cognizant individuals in this firm. A questionnaire was issued to other microwave firms to obtain their views on the subject. The method of analysis involved the study of the use of engineering man-hours expended on six (6) contracts - four of which used the Project Manager concept. One large contract was selected for an in-depth analysis of the Project Manager concept. The evidence obtained clearly indicated that the Project Manager concept produced beneficial results relative to achieving anticipated profit margins, reducing engineering man-hours on a project, factory and subcontractor control, and more accurate schedule control. However, the Project Manager concept also introduced additional costs, inconsistency in company policy implementation, and more complex internal operations in some cases. Further research is suggested relative to the implementation and control of engineering man-hours. The study indicates that additional controls are required to provide improved accuracy in reporting engineering labor.

Comments

Includes bibliographical references.||Includes illustrations.

Extent

vi, 83 pages

Language

eng

Publisher

Northern Illinois University

Rights Statement

In Copyright

Rights Statement 2

NIU theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from Huskie Commons for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without the written permission of the authors.

Media Type

Text

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