Project Management Latest, September 2020
The Golden Thread: recognising the contribution of project management
This latest episode of this new podcast from APM explores the findings from The Golden Thread, a research series by APM and PwC. In this episode, host Emma De Vita (editor, Project Journal) asks:
what’s the big-picture take on project management in the UK?
Is the profession given the serious recognition it deserves? and
what does the future hold for project management amid the ongoing global pandemic?
I have many similar thoughts on the importance and lack of support provided to SME project managers and sponsors. Our economic growth is hugely dependent on productivity improvements. That productivity in turn depends on successful project outcomes. You can read more here and I'd love to hear what you think.
What To Know When Selecting A Project Management Tool
Noosing Yazhari suggests some great steps when selecting a tool:
1. Document what you need,
2. Survey the technology environment,
3. Look for time-saving automations, and
4. Identify the best integration process.
I can't agree more the importance of step one. All too often we work with clients who jumped into the romance of a whizzy new tool and then post-rationalise their reasons for selection, whilst changing the way they work to suit the tool. It's so important to select a tool to suit the right way of working! You can read more here.
With the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in some tools to augment project management efforts, step three is important. The other consideration for AI in project management is of course the availability of suitable data. More on this on the ProjExc website.
I've also seen two interesting project leadership posts on PMIs website. The first is on project communication and the second looks at accountability.
Project Communication: Why Is It So Hard?
Mike Griffiths goes back to the basics of communication, what can go wrong and some "crafty solutions":
Prioritise,
Choose your channel,
Don't be afraid to duplicate (using multiple channels),
Seek confirmation & feedback, and
Turn to technology.
Be an Accountable Leader
Vince Molinaro looks at how project managers can add value by demonstrating 5 leadership behaviours:
Hold others accountable for high standards of performance,
Tackle tough issues and make difficult decisions,
Communicate the strategy across the organization,
Express optimism about the company and its future, and
Display clarity about external trends in the business environment.
What’s caught your eye recently in the world of projects, programs, portfolios or productivity?