Project Statement

Outline
What is a project statement
How to build a project statement
Key elements in a project statement
Format of a project statement

What is a Project Statement?
A project statement
defines the problem to be solved so that work can begin on the project
provides an initial understanding on the scope of the project

Stages of Building
a Project Statement
I. Contact key individuals in the sponsoring organization (or the internal division).
II. Arrange for a site visit, if possible.
III. Do preliminary background research
IV. Ask questions, listen, and take good notes in your laboratory notebook.

Doing Background Research
What do I need to find out?
Where and how can I get the information?
How useful is the information?
When do I have enough information?
Any questions should be asked ahead of time

Elements of a Project Statement
Statement of Need
Preliminary Requirements
Basic Limitations
Other Data
Questions

Statement of Need
A couple of paragraphs
Discusses the perceived need Does not have to be very precise
Do NOT include a solution
Allow for fresh/creative approaches

Preliminary Requirements
Describes the requirements broadly
Does not have to be very precise
Does not require a detailed list (that will come next when you do the Project Specifications)
Be careful not to specify prematurely

Basic Limitations
Describes known constraints
Notes applicable codes/restrictions
Discusses undesirable features
May include simple sketches

Other Data
Includes relevant information that does not fit in other sections such as that about the equipment, facilities and/or policies of the sponsoring organization.

Questions
Includes questions that have been raised in meetings/discussions but which cannot be answered until later in the design process.

Format for the Project Statement
Cover Page (described later)
Body: Project Statement with all the necessary elements (as described before) clearly labeled.
Additional Information: Identify key technical areas/skills used in the project.

Cover Page
Course Number (ECE 4901) and term
Title of the Project (descriptive)
Team members (with majors identified)
Sponsoring Organization (contact information)