PPP 327 | What is Sustainable Project Management? A Conversation with Rich Maltzman
Jul 6, 2021
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Rich Maltzman, contributor to PMBOK® Guide Seventh Edition, discusses sustainable project management and how project managers can make a difference. Topics include misconceptions about project management, the ethical considerations of profit vs. sustainability, incorporating sustainability into project leadership, extra thinking and devil's advocacy, considering long-term consequences, communication failures in project management, and the importance of soft skills.
Sustainable project management involves considering the long-term impact of projects on society, the environment, and profitability, and making choices that align with the company's mission, vision, and values.
Project managers should speak up and play the role of devil's advocate to ensure projects align with sustainability goals, even if they don't have direct influence over strategic decisions.
Deep dives
Sustainable Project Management and Its Meaning
Sustainable project management involves working in a way that considers the long term, thinking about the future and being a good steward of the environment. It means being mindful of the impact projects have on society, the environment, and profitability. Sustainable project management is not limited to specific projects like wind farms or green initiatives, but rather involves considering the complete date of the project and its long-term benefits. This includes making choices that align with the company's mission, vision, and values, and being aware of the potential social, economic, and environmental impacts.
The Importance of Speaking Up and Being a Voice of Reason
Project managers should not hesitate to speak up and play the role of devil's advocate when necessary. Even if they may not have direct influence over strategic decisions, they still have a voice and can contribute to discussions about sustainability. By raising concerns or suggesting alternative approaches, project managers can help ensure that projects align with the company's sustainability goals and values. Speaking truth to power is important, as it can lead to more sustainable choices and outcomes that benefit society, the environment, and the long-term success of the organization.
Practical Steps for Thinking and Acting Sustainably
To think and act more sustainably in project management, it is important to be conscious of the company's mission, vision, and values. This involves understanding the organization's commitment to sustainability and considering those principles in decision-making. Project managers can engage in the three-click challenge by exploring the company's homepage to easily find statements about sustainability and corporate social responsibility. Additionally, risk and stakeholder identification should be done with a long-term perspective. Project managers should consider the broader impacts beyond the immediate project and assess the potential environmental, social, and economic effects over time. By integrating sustainability considerations in these practical ways, project managers can contribute to more sustainable outcomes.
The Importance of Soft Skills and Diversity in Project Management
Soft skills and diversity are crucial for success in project management. Effective communication, emotional intelligence, and the ability to work with diverse teams and stakeholders are key. It is essential to emphasize people skills and build strong relationships with team members and stakeholders. Diversity, in terms of functional expertise, backgrounds, and perspectives, brings valuable insights and creativity to project management. A diverse team can contribute to improved decision-making, problem-solving, and overall project success. Project managers should strive to create an inclusive environment that fosters collaboration, empathy, and respect for different perspectives.
One of my favorite voices on how to lead projects is Rich Maltzman. Rich contributed to A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide) Seventh Edition in the areas of sustainability and value delivery. In this episode, Rich talks about what sustainable project management is (and isn't). Perhaps more importantly, he talks about what we can do at our level, especially when we feel we don’t have much influence to make a difference. And Rich shares some project and career lessons that he’s gleaned over the years. It’s a great discussion with a guy I consider a friend.
Here are some resources that Rich mentions during the interview:
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