The Art of Managing Large-Scale Projects in Multicultural Teams

Oct 29, 2024

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There are distinct opportunities and problems when working with a multicultural workforce, particularly on large projects. When teams come together from different backgrounds with different perspectives, talents, and experiences, harnessing this diversity can boost creativity and problem-solving abilities. However, successful collaboration necessitates a deliberate commitment to communication and trust-building. Setting common goals and encouraging open conversation is critical for managing the complications that result from different cultural norms and expectations.

Our guest today is Bisrat Degefa, CEO & Co-Founder of TruBuild, an AI-powered construction software designed to simplify construction projects. He is a construction expert with vast worldwide expertise. His career began in the UK on rail projects before transferring to Qatar for the Doha Metro Gold Line project. He later managed digital engineering in Kenya and worked on major projects in India, North America, and South America. His team at TrustBuild is pioneering breakthrough AI solutions to reinvent project planning and execution, moving the industry forward. He joined us today to talk about the art of managing large-scale projects in multicultural teams.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

[02:18] Bisrat’s journey through the construction industry. [05:15] The willingness to adapt new technologies: the difference between the Middle East and the USA. [08:22] Bisrat’s professional journey through Kenya, India, North America, Canada, and the Middle East. [12:29] A journey influenced by specific goals and opportunities. [16:28] Navigation through a shared mindset between different races, ethnicities, and cultures. [17:10] Consistent issues on large-scale projects. [20:26] Federation from a design and project management perspective. [25:04] Why the UK is best at handling conflict. [27:08] Building trust in different cultures. [30:40] Handling the failures of entrepreneurship. [37:00] Addressing pain points of owners.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

It’s important to foster a shared mindset in diverse teams.
Prioritize effective communication within large teams to minimize rework.
Ensure the communication of the potential impacts on quality and processes clearly to stakeholders.
Focus on establishing clear communication and aligning on common goals.
If a mistake is identified, act quickly to rectify it and communicate transparently with stakeholders about the issue.

RESOURCES

Connect with Bisrat

LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/bisrat-s-degefa/

Website - trubuild.io/