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)
It is sometimes mentally challenging to make difficult decisions particularly those you do not have control over and that may ultimately affect the project as it were. Though I do not subscribe to having a universal solution to a universal problem, In these cases particularly the one about water supply, I think the solution will work perfectly in a similar context anywhere in the world. The approach will determine the degree of success or compliance.
I think the decision they made in their situation was right and can be the same in different contexts, I say this because they tried to communicate with all stakeholders concerned and they collaborated with them in the decision-making. As PM communication and collaboration is key in decision-making since it helps you to scan collectively and see if there is no other option to consider and decide.
In taking difficult decisions in their project, the experts emphasized several important factors. Firstly, they considered the impact of their decisions on stakeholders, including team members and clients, highlighting the importance of communication and managing expectations. Secondly, they emphasized the need for thorough analysis and evaluation of risks and benefits, indicating a reliance on data-driven decision-making. Lastly, they acknowledged the importance of personal values and ethics, ensuring alignment between their decisions and their moral compass.
In a different context, the experts might indeed act differently based on various factors such as the nature of the project, the stakeholders involved, and the specific challenges faced. For instance, in a project with higher stakes or tighter timelines, they might prioritize efficiency over consensus-building. Similarly, if faced with different ethical dilemmas or conflicting values, they might make decisions that align with the specific context and circumstances. Overall, while the core principles of communication, analysis, and ethics remain constant, the application of these principles may vary based on the context at hand.
In all instances, it’s good the PM is able to communicate and conduct a quick meeting and is also able to collaborate with every people and aspect involved in the project.
Communication is key for a project manager as it helps to relate issues, tasks and progress with both clients and the teams members
communication was what was common in all three situation. Different situation demands a different approach. So all in all you need to think outside the box as a project manager in difficult situations
When making difficult decisions, it is important to consider all of the available information and options carefully. This includes weighing the potential risks and benefits of each option, as well as considering the potential impact of the decision on others. These are some factors important to them in their decision-making process are:
– Project goals & everyone’s expectations: What did they want to achieve, and what did others involved need?
– Risks & uncertainty: What could go wrong with each choice, and how unsure were they of the outcome?
– What they had & what they lacked: Did they have the people, tools, and time they needed for each option?
– Team & expert input: What did others think, and what expertise did they offer?
– Right & wrong: Would the choice be fair and good for society?
The experts wouldn’t always make the same call. Basically, the experts are flexible and adjust their decisions based on what matters most in each situation.
communication was what was common in all three situation. They were all different challenging situations but they all handled it with good and effective communication skills.
What was most important for them in taking the decisions they took was the initial set Project Goals and Objectives. When challenges surfaced, they just have to re-envision the set goals, and the natural instincts of a Project Manager is to never back down as being enshrined and learnt overtime… They can’t just see people efforts wasted away, so they naturally are carved to solve problems.
Would they act differently in different context? I strongly believe it’s a no, they will also have to deal with the uniqueness of the challenge, but ultimately, would still navigate the storm and turbulence to achieve set goals and objectives.
A good and effective communication skill though proper placement will yield to the project success.
Problem solving is part of project management and effectively communication is the key to problem solving.
Effective and constant communication and dedication was a great tool that helped them.
Every project manager should have a specialize way of communicating difficulties on the project to team members and be actively involved in executing whatever solutions designed to curb the challenge.
Would they have acted differently in a different context? No