What Projects are Not
Since a project is by definition a unique set of activities not repeated in operational cycle(s), it follows that we can also define a project by exclusion. For example, a monthly closing is not usually considered a project. But an effort to study the closing process and its related activities, timings, resource utilization, etc. in order to improve some aspect or feature of the closing can indeed be a project.
The statement about non-cyclic nature needs interpretation. For example in process plant construction each project will in fact have piping spools that are cut/fit/welded and then installed/tested. However, the design, procurement, installation, test, startup and turnover process for that plant will not be repeated. When a similar plant is to be built in almost the same configuration but at a different location, the differences introduced by time, changes in markets, techniques, infrastructure, etc. not to mention the possibility of a different client, all make each project unique.
Another aspect of project work is that projects are rarely successful when run by a committee. Not that there is anything theoretically wrong with assigning a project to a committee, it is just that committee management is not suited to the needs of successful projects. A wag once observed that a camel was the product of a committee running a project to produce a horse!
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Unique Features of Projects
