Master Thesis: Exploring Excel's Limitations in Project Management

Job description

Transport is at the core of modern society. Imagine using your expertise to shape sustainable transport and infrastructure solutions for the future? If you seek to make a difference on a global scale, working with next-gen technologies and the sharpest collaborative teams, then we could be a perfect match. 

 

Background of Thesis Work 

In today's fast-paced business environment, effective project management is crucial for organizations to ensure successful project delivery. Many companies, including Volvo CE, have traditionally relied on Excel as a project management tool. However, Excel has its limitations and may not be the most efficient solution for complex project management tasks. This thesis aims to investigate the limitations of using Excel for project management, particularly within the New Product Development (NPD) process and explore the potential benefits of transitioning to advanced project management tools or other innovative solutions.  

 

Description of Thesis Work and Deliverables  

This master thesis project will involve a comprehensive analysis of the current use of Excel for project management within Volvo CE's NPD process. The students will conduct interviews, surveys, and data analysis to identify the limitations and challenges associated with using Excel in project management. The findings will be documented in a detailed report, highlighting the specific areas where Excel falls short in meeting the project management needs of Volvo CE. 

 

The focus will be on understanding the root causes of the inefficiencies and limitations of Excel in project management. This will involve engaging with various stakeholders across the organization, including but not limited to the purchasing department, to gather a holistic view of the challenges faced. 

 

Furthermore, the students will research and evaluate various advanced project management tools and other innovative solutions available in the market. Factors such as usability, scalability, and integration with existing systems like SAP will be considered during the evaluation process. The findings will be presented in a comparative analysis report, providing insights into the potential alternatives to Excel for project management. However, it is also possible that the analysis may conclude that Excel remains the most suitable tool for certain aspects of project management at Volvo CE. 

 

Based on the evaluation, the students will develop a comprehensive strategy for either improving the use of Excel or transitioning to a selected project management tool or another innovative solution. This strategy will include a step-by-step implementation plan, considering the specific requirements and constraints of Volvo CE's NPD process. The implementation plan will be presented in a detailed document, outlining the necessary actions, timeline, and potential challenges during the transition process. 

 

The potential benefits and opportunities that the new project management tool or solution could bring to Volvo CE will be assessed. These benefits may include improved efficiency, better resource allocation, enhanced project tracking, and seamless integration with other systems. The students will analyze the potential impact of the new tool or solution on Volvo CE's project management processes and present their findings in a comprehensive report. 

 

Suitable Background 

We are looking for motivated and analytical students with a background in project management, business administration, or a related field. Strong analytical and research skills, as well as proficiency in data analysis tools, will be beneficial for this thesis project. Additionally, familiarity with project management concepts and tools will be advantageous. 

 

Thesis Level: Master 

Language: English 

Start Date: Flexible 

Number of Students: 2 students working in pair

 

Contact: 

 

Leif Nilsson

Head of PPD Projects Haulers & WL

leif.a.nilsson@volvo.com

+46 700897502

 

Sebastian Gustafsson

Project Manager Purchasing

sebastian.gustafsson@volvo.com

+46 700838884

 

Last application date: 30th of November 2024.

We value your data privacy and therefore do not accept applications via mail. 

 

Who we are and what we believe in 
Our focus on Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity allows each of us the opportunity to bring our full authentic self to work and thrive by providing a safe and supportive environment, free of harassment and discrimination. We are committed to removing the barriers to entry, which is why we ask that even if you feel you may not meet every qualification on the job description, please apply and let us decide.

 

Applying to this job offers you the opportunity to join Volvo Group. Every day, across the globe, our trucks, buses, engines, construction equipment, financial services, and solutions make modern life possible. We are almost 100,000 people empowered to shape the future landscape of efficient, safe and sustainable transport solutions. Fulfilling our mission creates countless career opportunities for talents with sharp minds and passion across the group’s leading brands and entities. 

 

Part of Volvo Group, Volvo Construction Equipment is a global company driven by our purpose to build the world we want to live in. Together we develop and deliver solutions for a cleaner, smarter, and more connected world. By unleashing everyone’s full potential, we build a more sustainable future for all our stakeholders. Come join our team and help us build a better tomorrow. 

Job Category:  Purchasing

Organization:  Volvo Construction Equipment

Travel Required:  No Travel Required

Requisition ID:  14629