3 experts have described difficult decisions they had to take in one project.
Now think about what was important for them in taking the decision the took. Would they act differently in a different context? Why?
(If you are part of an ongoing PM bootcamp cohort on DEXA, also copy your comment to your group)
Navigating difficult decisions is an inherent part of project management. It’s often where true leadership emerges. These aren’t just about technical challenges; they frequently involve competing priorities, resource constraints, stakeholder conflicts, or unforeseen risks that threaten project success.
My approach centers on a few key principles. Firstly, gather all pertinent information – data, perspectives from the team, and potential impacts. This doesn’t mean endless analysis, but rather enough to make an informed choice. Secondly, prioritize clarity on project objectives and scope. Difficult decisions often boil down to which path best serves the ultimate goal. Thirdly, engage key stakeholders. Transparency, even with uncomfortable truths, builds trust and can lead to collaborative solutions. Finally, embrace the fact that not every decision will be perfect. The goal is to make the *best possible* decision with the information available, learn from the outcomes, and adapt quickly. Ultimately, decisive action, even when challenging, is always preferable to paralysis. Also never be afraid to terminate a project if that seems like the best course of action after all options have been exhausted.
As project managers, the satisfaction of their clients were their top priorities and would have acted differently in a different context.
Difficulties/Problems are bound to arise in different projects and approach towards resolving them differs too. I believe they’d have acted differently in a different context. The scope and ethics for a particular project ain’t the same for another project and this is something to put into consideration even before taking a drastic step
The project managers came across difficult situations, so all PM made their decision accoring to thier different contexts.
Every project manager will face problems and problems can be solved using different approaches.A single problem may have 2 or more ways it can be solved. But as a project manager, your duty is to make sure project is done regardless of the difficulties.This is where strategy(s) is(are) used,and strategy can mean whatever means to make things work out for you.Everyone has different perspectives, experience, understanding etc and that could be seen in the course video.
All the three project managers that talked about their difficult decision concerning their projects. They managed to solve their problems and didn’t back down, One of the project managers made mention of a difficult decision she had to take which was ending a project, when there are foreseen risks that cannot be handled by the company or organization the best and most difficult decision to take is to end the project. It is the most difficult decision because every member of the team has put in a lot effort
Dealing with tough decisions in project management requires a methodical approach from us as project managers. Every one of the three project managers did their best to handle the challenge. After gathering pertinent data and information on the project’s status, they conducted an open analysis of the issue and effectively gathered the opinions and concerns of the stakeholders. They conducted themselves morally and according to the law. In certain situations, they were adaptable in order to get the most out of their teammates. When making decisions, they weighed the advantages and disadvantages as needed. Despite the difficult circumstances and choices they made, they all had favorable dispositions and effects.
In my opinion, I think it was the finest course of action they could have taken in a difficult circumstance while keeping the highest moral standards and beliefs in mind.
project managers come across difficult situations, so all PM will make their decision due to different contexts and the matter that is layed out.
Hello, I think the solutions provided by the experts in handling the difficult decision were okay. However, I would have done the following myself.
One of the most difficult decisions is the early termination of a project. This may be due to budget constraints, changes in priorities, or unforeseen challenges. In such cases, it’s important to first conduct a thorough review to assess whether the project can be salvaged through restructuring or scaling down. If termination remains the best option, it should be done professionally and transparently. All stakeholders must be informed, lessons should be documented, and proper closure procedures followed to preserve relationships and create space for future collaboration.
Another challenge arises when there is a simultaneous need for a limited resource, such as water, by different project activities. When two or more tasks require the same resource at the same time, it’s crucial to evaluate which activity has greater urgency or impact. A rotation or scheduling system can help ensure fair access, and where possible, alternative sources or substitutes should be explored. Engaging stakeholders in making this decision fosters transparency and shared responsibility.
Finally, language barriers can pose serious obstacles, especially in multicultural or community-based projects. When team members or stakeholders speak different languages, communication breaks down and misunderstandings can occur. To address this, projects can engage interpreters or assign bilingual team members as liaisons. Simple tools like translated documents, visual aids, and mobile apps also help bridge communication gaps. In the long term, offering language training and promoting cultural awareness strengthens inclusivity and trust.
Difficulties/Problems are bound to arise in different projects and approach towards resolving them differs too. I believe they’d have acted differently in a different context. The scope and ethics for a particular project ain’t the same for another project and this is something to put into consideration even before taking a drastic step
If I face a difficult situation as a Project Manager.
I’ll first try to understand what the real problem is ,not just what it looks like on the surface.
I’ll stay calm and talk to the people involved so we can think through the issue together. I believe in being honest, asking for help if needed, and doing what’s best for the success of the project.
If a tough decision has to be made, like changing the plan or even stopping the project, I’ll do it but with clear reasons and proper communication. It’s not always easy, but that’s part of the role.
I think the three context were different, and their actions were appropriate for the contexts.
Terminating a project prematurely can be so heartbreaking and a difficult decision but the experience and knowledge of what is required, it takes being no realistic than optimistic to do so.
Language barrier can also pose as a huge challenge
Each expert made a context-sensitive decision that demonstrates adaptive leadership. If placed in interior design/furniture projects, similar decisions would still be valid, but the response would be shaped by factors like scale, stakeholders, and setting.