Pinto, J. K. (2015). Project management: Achieving competitive advantage (4th ed
ID: 3902369 • Letter: P
Question
Pinto, J. K. (2015). Project management: Achieving competitive advantage (4th ed.). Prentice Hall.
PowerPoint presentation(20 to 25 slides with notes)
Case Study 8.1 The Hidden Costs of Infrastructure Projects—The Case of Building Dams, Page 286
1. Given the history of large cost overruns associated with megadam construction, why do you believe they are so popular, especially in the developing world?
2. Develop an argument in support of megadam construction. Develop an argument against these development projects.
Explanation / Answer
1. One possible reason is the prestige offered by them, especially in reference to present the evidence of development and improvement to the national economy. Some developing countries consider them as a mark of international legitimacy. However there are some reason that large projects give the chances for large-scale graft and corruption. It is being expected that demand for electricity will be doubled worldwide between 2010 and 2035. Consequently, hydroelectric power is seen as a cheap, available option for countries having river systems that permit for dams, particularly as it is a desirable option to dirtier coal-burning plants. Other arguments that favours building these dams include its use for flood control, crop irrigation, inland transportation, urban water supplies, and as a job creator.
2. This question is perfect for an in-class debate between groups. The best way is to create teams by assigning students and let them research this question so that they can prepare with actual evidence, rather than having simple perspective. There can be so many arguments on both sides of the debate, and the summarised response should consist both the pros and cons of such massive construction projects, but the current long-term proofs indicate that they are more a curse than a benefit.