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)
When tough decisions are made, it brings real growth, and standing your ground as a project manager, even when it isn’t comfortable, is what really hones your leadership skills, especially in the area of critical thinking and decision-making. I have experience at work with how my HOD applies this set of skills, optimizing productivity through safe engineering practices.
As a project manager, you’ll always have to make tough decisions, decisions that no one else might be willing to take. In a different context, a different decision could have been taken based on the circumstances that presents itself during that moment.
Difficult decisions are where real growth happens for a PM. By using ‘moral rules’ as a guide, these experts were able to manage the reactions of those involved and ensure the project didn’t degenerate into a worse situation.
When facing difficult decisions, as a PM, sticking to shared group values helps ensure consistency. I think the experts acted based on what was best for the collective goal. If the context changed like having a different set of stakeholders their priorities might shift, but their underlying commitment to innovative or responsive solutions would likely remain the same
The project managers focused on protecting the project, keeping relationships, and upholding the company’s reputation. In a different context, they might act differently because priorities and risks can change depending on the situation.
As a PM, tough decisions are part of the job, you know. Having a solid contingency plan in place helps you navigate when things go sideways, and that’s where the real growth happens. It’s like, you’re preparing for the worst, hoping for the best, and learning either way, you win.
Thinking about what was important for the PMs in taking the decision they took,
1) They had to save the situation and manage the reactions of those involved so the scene doesn’t degenerate to physical confrontation
2) They had to save the image of the company they work for and also avoid hurting the client and keeping the relationship.
These are really tough dilemmas and requires expertise, deep thoughts and wisdom.
AS A PM , YOU’RE THE PIVOT AND THE DRIVE FORCE OF THE PROJECT, YOU HAVE TO BE PREPARED IN MAKING TOUGH DECISION. ALWAYS HAVE A SECOND THOUGHT PLAN IN PLACE, TO CONTINUE RUNNING THE PROJECT EFFECTIVELY
As a PM, you cannot escape dealing with tough decisions. It is important that a contingency plan should be in place incase anything goes south. This gives room for growth and learning.