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)
In their decision-making processes, experts typically weigh key factors such as risk assessment, ethical considerations, stakeholder interests, and the long-term implications of their choices. The specific context plays a crucial role in shaping their decisions, as varying circumstances can alter priorities and available options. For example, in less pressured scenarios or when stakeholder priorities differ, experts might focus more on strategic innovation and long-term benefits rather than immediate problem-solving. Additionally, considering broader impacts and aligning decisions with overarching goals can lead to more sustainable and forward-thinking outcomes. This approach ensures that decisions not only address current challenges but also contribute to the long-term success and integrity of the project.
making difficult decision in any project as a project manger in necessary especial to avoid a chaotic outcome and also maintain some levels of transparency
in the video, the three project managers were also concerned about the pros and cons to consider before making that decision, in as much as it painful with all the resources has been put into the job so far, what needs to be done has to be done.
The three Project Managers must make decisions based on a variety of scenarios, budgets, deadlines, and risks; however, all must be made with the primary goal of resolving challenges in mind.
To prevent preventable issues from cropping up in the middle of project operations, it is critical for project managers to critically align with the procedures involved in project management from the outset. As a result, frequent, intensive team communication is required.
Adewale Bisola
PM Boot camp cohort 16( Group 1)
Dealing with difficult decisions as a project manager requires:
1. *Clear objectives*: Understanding the project’s goals and priorities to make decisions that align with them.
2. *Accurate information*: Gathering relevant and reliable data to inform decision-making.
3. *Critical thinking*: Objectively analyzing options and potential outcomes.
4. *Risk assessment*: Identifying and evaluating potential risks and consequences.
5. *Stakeholder input*: Consulting with relevant stakeholders to understand their perspectives and needs.
6. *Creative problem-solving*: Finding innovative solutions to complex problems.
7. *Decisiveness*: Making timely and confident decisions, even in uncertain situations.
8. *Communication skills*: Effectively explaining decisions and rationales to stakeholders.
9. *Flexibility*: Being adaptable and willing to adjust decisions as circumstances change.
10. *Accountability*: Taking ownership of decisions and being responsible for their outcomes.
11. *Ethical considerations*: Ensuring decisions align with ethical principles and organizational values.
12. *Collaboration*: Working with team members and stakeholders to share knowledge and expertise.
By considering these factors, project managers can make informed, effective, and timely decisions that support project success.
Dealing with difficult decisions as a project manager requires a thoughtful, innovative and bold approach to explore the best possible outcomes.
As explained difficult decision is one where there is no obvious way forward, you have a number of options that has their pros and cons.
Firstly, one of the most difficult decisions to make as project manager is deciding to pull the plug on a project before delivering. There are some reasons why this happens:
It could be change in the organization’s priority or technical reasons why the project is no longer feasible. Whatever the reason(s) maybe the project manager must clearly state the reasons for cancelling against reasons for continuing, so that the team and stakeholders are aware.
secondly, drawing a team with diverse backgrounds, languages and competences can be challenging since communication is a must in a project. But when you find a way to communicate and get the team to work together, it is also rewarding.
Odinfe David Chika
Team7
Cohort16
Edeh Chibueze Goodluck
Team 3, Cohort 16
For the temporary water supplier, they took a bold step of involving their client and communicating with local stakeholders to ensure that water was available for the project. This emphasized the need of of decision-making skills from a project manager.
In the event that the local stakeholders couldn’t meet the demand, the project would have been terminated at an early stage before it could be delivered.
Stephen Izuchukwu Emeasoba.
Team 9. Cohort 16.
Dealing with difficult decisions as a project manager requires a thoughtful and structured approach to achieved the best possible outcomes.
From the video, it was important for them to take the decision they took to ensure resolution of the issues with the stakeholders and agree on possible solutions.
For this to be achieved, the project managers were calm, Keeping their emotions in check and approached the decision objectively.
They were transparent with their team and stakeholders, and were prepared to address resistance and concerns from stakeholders about the issues, and discus possible solutions.
The project managers can act differently in a different context, depending on the issues that needs to be addressed and the stakeholder involved.
Decision making is one of the major skill a project manager should possess. Ability to identify issues early during a project lifecycle and work together with the project team and project board to take a decision is very important.
The goal or objective of any project is to meet the users requirement for the product, if the requirement cannot be met, even with the tolerances in place, then the motive for the project is defeated.
The project managers in the about lessons, could have acted differently if it was in a BAU (Business as usual) environment.
Project managers face numerous challenges and obstacles throughout a project’s lifecycle. Effective decision-making enables them to identify and implement the best solutions to overcome these the situation at the time.
As a project manager sometimes faced with difficult challenges. Especially in situations where the plugs are pulled before delivery date. I believe that the team’s approach would vary depending on the specific project scenario, as each project presents its unique challenges and experiences. However, their ability to collaborate, brainstorm, and work together towards a common goal, despite the obstacles, is a valuable asset that will help them navigate challenges and achieve project success.