This document discusses categorizing different types of projects. It suggests classifying projects based on their product or deliverable, such as administrative (installing a new accounting system), construction (building a road), or computer software development (new computer program). The most useful breakdown is by the type of product a project produces. A project's required management approach depends on characteristics common to its type. Other variables like size, duration, location, cost and complexity also influence projects.

1. Different projects types

2. How should we categorize different
types of projects?
Three words to define :
1- typology
2- taxonomy
3- classification
The project management profession needs a
classification system for different types of
projects

3. Four basic ways for setting
up a classification system :
1- geographical location
2- industrial sector
3- stage of the project life
cycle
4- product of the project
The most important and the most useful
breakdown is by type of product or deliverable
that the project is producing

4. Type of Project Product of Project
(Examples)
Administrative -installing a new accounting system
Construction -a building or a road
Computer Software Development -a new computer program
Design of Plans -architectural or engineering plans
Equipment or System Installation -a telephone system or a IT system
Event or Relocation -Olympiads or a move into a new
building
Maintenance of Process Industries -petro-chemical plant or electric
generating station
New Product Development -a new drug or aerospace/defense product
Research -a feasibility study or
investigating a chemical
Other -?

5. Common characteristics of the major types of projects

6. Required Project Management Approach

7. Other variables common to all
types of projects :
•Size
•Duration (Length of time)
•Industrial sector
•Geographical location
•Number of workers involved
•Cost (large, medium or small)
•Complexity
•Urgency
•Organizational design