Join Adam Boddison, Chief Executive of the Association for Project Management, as he reshapes the landscape of project management. He discusses the Golden Thread research and the need to reframe stereotypes, emphasizing the importance of people skills over processes. Adam dives into the role of effective sponsorship and how project managers can elevate their strategic importance in organizations. He also explores the societal benefits of successful projects and advocates for diversity and ESG principles as key to delivering impactful results.
Project success relies more on effective team dynamics and leadership than solely on following established processes and timelines.
Addressing the negative stereotypes of project management is crucial for enhancing the profession's image and attracting new talent.
Deep dives
The Primacy of People in Project Success
Project success is often more about people than processes, a misconception that needs addressing in the field of project management. Many outcomes hinge on the influence of individuals or teams rather than merely adhering to predefined methodologies. Successful project delivery frequently results not just from effective planning, but from the engagement and capabilities of the people involved. This insight underlines the necessity for project managers to prioritize team dynamics, communication, and leadership in their approach to achieve favorable outcomes.
Addressing the Image Problem in Project Management
The project management profession faces an image issue, with many professionals reluctant to identify primarily as project managers due to negative perception. This is compounded by the portrayal of project management in popular media as often blaming project managers for failures, further perpetuating stereotypes. It is suggested that project professionals must articulate their strategic roles and the long-term benefits they drive, shifting the narrative from a focus on process to their integral involvement in organizational success. Improving this image is crucial for the maturity of the profession and attracting new talent.
Essential Skills for Modern Project Managers
Modern project managers must possess a diverse set of competencies that extend beyond technical skills to include strategic thinking and people management. These competencies encompass areas such as conflict resolution, leadership, and governance, underscoring the multifaceted nature of project roles. Additionally, project managers are increasingly expected to be adaptable, capable of navigating through various sectors, and leveraging their breadth of experience to facilitate delivery across diverse projects. This versatility positions them well for advancement into executive roles and enhances their value within organizations.
The Economic and Strategic Value of Project Management
The economic impact of project management is significant, with the profession contributing over £186 billion annually to the UK economy alone. Despite this growth, a notable skills gap exists, with projections indicating a need for an additional 25 million project professionals globally by 2030 to meet ambitious development goals. The success of unconventional sectors employing project management principles highlights the versatile nature of the role, often found in areas like legal services and hospitality, beyond traditional industries like construction and IT. This growing demand emphasizes the importance of recognizing the strategic value of project management in facilitating change and fostering organizational progress.
Project management is more than just schedules and deadlines—it’s a powerful force for driving change across industries. In this episode, we welcome Professor Adam Boddison, Chief Executive of the Association for Project Management (APM) who talks about APM’s Golden Thread research, conducted by PwC. He offers valuable perspectives on the skills that are essential for success, as well as strategies for breaking down common stereotypes about project managers.
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