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?
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Just as we face face difficulties in our day to day activities, so is it with handling Projects as a Project Manager.
A Project Manager is saddled, faced with difficult, yet painful decisions that could help in taking final decisions.
A Project Manager could be forced take the following difficult decisions;
*To terminate a project if demand is equal to resource or Resource persons. But first off, Options to continue or terminate a project should be given consideration by putting them side by side and weighing them.
*Prioritization due to evolving times in the process mechanism and technology might impact on having to make difficult considerations and conclusions.
*Analysis of if the skills set and tools are still applicable to the present ones or has any relevance in being applied.
I believe there are other ways these difficulties can be addressed and basically, I believe Resource smoothing should be used to preserve the project deadline only that extra costs will be incurred.
Every project has its ups and down and as such sometimes a project manager may experience challenges but in the midst of those challenges, tough decision must be made and so, the project manager should communicate and collaborate with the team in a positive and calm way
Every project is unique so challenges would be different .the project managers in the previous video would have acted differently though it will still be within the ethical values of the organization.
Reflecting on the most important objective of the Project
Clear and consistent communication with stakeholders
Remaining ethical while making decisions
If was in their shoe, I would taken such decision they took or think of some other best way to address the challenge.
As project manager in a construction space, Decision making whether its difficult or simple should be communicated to before or after to the stakeholders .
Any decision we are making should have human face in it i.e our environment.
Effective communication is important in project management. One thing I noticed from one of the speakers is the ability to maintain a tone that is encouraging and positive.
As a project manager, you should be able to make your client see the vision of the project as well as identify any roadblocks and explore all possible solutions, and this can only be achieved through effective communications with your team and clients.
From the lesson I’ve learned that as a project manager, there are sometimes we will have to make some difficult decisions. What is important in making a difficult decision is communication.
The decision is not to be taken alone, the team and stakeholders have to be carried along and the decisions can then be taken after communicating with them.
When making the decision, the goal of the project too must be considered and should not be left out.
In a different context, I feel they would have acted differently because as they say “different stroke for different folks” decisions should align with the goals most importantly.
Considering the three project managers, communication emerged as a pivotal factor for them. Effective communication fosters problem-solving within the project team. When challenges arise, project managers and team members can engage in collaborative discussions and brainstorming sessions to explore solutions. Open channels of communication also promote the exchange of lessons learned, facilitating process improvement and the prevention of recurring issues. In varying contexts, project managers may approach difficult decision-making in distinct ways, influenced by factors such as project complexity, urgency, stakeholder dynamics, organizational culture, and personal leadership style. effective decision-making in project management consistently hinges on a blend of critical thinking, collaboration, adaptability, and ethical consideration, crucial for overcoming obstacles and achieving project objectives.
Project managers often have to make difficult decisions and must find a balance that is guided by ethics and values. Moreover, upholding the objectives and communicating effectively with the Stakeholders are prerequisites for making difficult decisions.