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)
Dealing with difficult decisions is a key part of ethical project management. In many projects, situations arise where there is pressure to meet deadlines, reduce costs, or satisfy stakeholders, even when it may conflict with doing the right thing. In such moments, values and moral principles become very important.
In my experience (or workplace), values like integrity, accountability, and fairness guide how difficult decisions are handled. For example, if there is pressure to adjust or misrepresent project data to show better results, integrity requires that I present accurate and honest information, even if it may not be what stakeholders want to hear.
Accountability also plays a role by ensuring that decisions are made responsibly, with full awareness of their impact on the project and stakeholders. Instead of shifting blame or avoiding responsibility, ethical decision-making involves owning the outcome and learning from it.
Another important value is fairness, especially when decisions affect team members or resource allocation. Treating everyone equally and considering the broader impact helps maintain trust and team morale.
When faced with difficult decisions, I find it helpful to:
1.Refer back to organizational values and ethical guidelines
2.Consider the long-term impact rather than short-term gains
3.Seek advice or input from trusted colleagues when necessary
4.Choose the option that aligns with honesty and respect for others
Overall, dealing with difficult decisions requires courage and a strong commitment to ethical values. Making the right choice may not always be easy, but it builds trust, credibility, and long-term success in project work.
The most important thing they put into consideration was the organisation goals and and priorities at that exact moment
The experts prioritized resource management and organizational goals, but they would act differently in a different context because project management decisions are inherently dependent on fluctuating factors like budget, time, and stakeholder needs.
The most important thing in making their decisions they made was communication, resources, human and material resource.
They considered the organization s priorities at that time. As well as a change in circumstances surrounding the project.
They would definitely act differently in a different context.
This is because idealy, no PM would like to leave a project unfinished given that all conditions are properly met for the project.