Assignment task: Sipho is the project manager for a large resort hotel and golf course construction project in the Western Cape, South Africa. Sipho is in the process of assembling his team for this project. This project is sponsored by a large American Hotel group. One of the clauses in the contract requires that each of the team members have in excess of eight years of experience in the field of resort hotel and golf course construction. Sipho is facing a dilemma about Melusi. Melusi is clearly someone who could add value to the project team. However, he has only three years' experience. Melusi's cousin Nhlanhla, who is already on the team, says that he can arrange a work experience certificate stating that Melusi has worked for nine years. Nhlanhla is confident that Melusi would do well as he is intelligent, has an amiable character and is a hard worker.
QUESTION 1: Take the contract situation and project manager skills into consideration. Describe and discuss which essential project management skills Sipho would need to implement in order to create a "win-win" situation for both the construction project and for Melusi.
QUESTION 2: The software developers for this hotel and golf resort are going to be located in North America (USA). What recommendations will you give to Sipho when managing this diverse project team, both geographically and with diverse roles and responsibilities, particularly when conflict situations arise during the project?