Hello, this module focuses on how to manage projects in a complicated world. The world is changing rapidly and in unpredictable ways. Just consider the changes caused by new technology, worldwide trade and competition, social and political disturbances, and the environmental emergency.
You might think that project management has little to do with these major global matters. However, all kinds of organizations, whether large or small, are impacted by the world they operate in. How a company understands and responds to this complexity influences the projects it chooses to undertake and how it handles them.
This week, we begin by examining frameworks that help us grasp this intricate world. These frameworks guide our actions, responses, and decision-making in the face of complexity.
Next, we delve deeply into various methods and practices for managing projects when faced with uncertainty, instability, and change. These methods include linear approaches and life cycles, often known as the waterfall method, as well as iterative or agile approaches. You will explore the pros and cons of these methods, as well as the ongoing debates about them.
By the end, you’ll grasp how to use and blend these methods effectively to achieve successful project outcomes.
To start off this week, we’re interested in hearing about your experiences. Considering those major global issues like technology, competition, social and political changes, and environmental problems, think about how they impact your organization and the projects you’re involved in.
Feel free to share your experiences with fellow learners in the discussion.
Patrick Jesse Team 6
As a PM in the music industry, global challenges like fast-evolving technology, intense competition, social movements, and environmental concerns greatly impact project management. Traditional waterfall approaches work well for structured tasks like contracts or event logistics, but aren’t flexible enough for creative and promotional work that requires constant adjustment.
That’s why we often use agile methods, which allow us to test, adapt, and respond quickly to audience feedback, platform changes, and market trends. Combining both approaches helps us manage uncertainty effectively and deliver successful, relevant projects in a fast-paced, unpredictable industry.
Technology: The fast-paced evolution of technology brings both opportunities for innovation and efficiency, as well as challenges in staying current. Organizations must remain agile, embracing new tools and trends, while projects may need to be restructured to integrate emerging technologies effectively.
Competition: The rise of global competition compels organizations to consistently enhance their products and services. Projects should be strategically planned to meet evolving market needs and distinguish themselves in crowded marketplaces to achieve long-term success.
Social and Political Change: Evolving societal norms and political dynamics can impact an organization’s image, customer expectations, and regulatory compliance. Projects must be flexible enough to reflect changing values and ensure alignment with new laws or public sentiment.
Environmental Challenges: Growing concerns about climate change and resource scarcity are reshaping consumer behavior and driving policy changes. Organizations are increasingly expected to implement sustainable solutions, and projects should incorporate environmentally responsible practices to stay relevant and compliant.
To determine how these global factors influence a specific organization or project, it is important to perform a comprehensive assessment. Consider industry trends, target markets, and geographic scope to gain a clearer understanding of the distinct risks and opportunities involved. Strategic foresight and adaptability are essential for navigating these complex and evolving conditions.
Transitioning to a new technology( softwares like facebook, instagram) also play major role for social visibility – getting to be known online takes a lot of effort and time.
Global concerns that can have a big impact on projects as a future project manager include competition, social and political upheavals, technological breakthroughs, and environmental catastrophes.
Political changes may have an impact on regulatory moves, while technological advancements may necessitate adjustments to remain competitive. Environmental disasters can put enterprises at danger, and social changes may influence customer choices. To succeed and make sure that initiatives fit the changing global scene, organizations need to manage these dynamics.
Additionally, a lack of resources, notably money, affects how projects are completed.
The Impact of Global Issues on My Organization and Projects
In today’s fast-changing world, global issues such as technology advancement, competition, social and political change, and the environmental crisis significantly influence my organization and personal projects. As someone training as a virtual assistant and planning to venture into online business, these factors shape both the challenges I face and the opportunities available.
1. Technology
Technology plays a crucial role in my work. The rapid rise of automation, artificial intelligence, and remote work tools is transforming how virtual assistance services are delivered. While this creates pressure to continually upgrade my digital skills, it also opens up opportunities to offer more efficient and diverse services. Tools like AI-powered chatbots, project management software, and marketing automation allow me to serve clients globally with greater speed and accuracy.
2. Competition
The freelance and virtual assistance industry is becoming increasingly competitive due to its global nature. I am not only competing with individuals locally but also with freelancers from other countries. This increases the need to differentiate myself through specialization, excellent customer service, and mastering high-demand skills. While pricing pressure exists, clients also value reliability, expertise, and professionalism, which gives me an edge if I focus on delivering quality.
3. Social and Political Change
Social and political trends are influencing how remote work is viewed worldwide. The growing acceptance of remote work creates more opportunities for virtual assistants like me. However, political and economic instability, especially in Nigeria, poses challenges such as inflation and currency fluctuations. On the positive side, this motivates me to focus on attracting international clients, which offers more financial stability through payments in stronger currencies.
4. Environmental Crisis
The ongoing environmental crisis impacts my work indirectly. Frequent power outages, internet disruptions, and extreme weather events can affect my productivity. However, remote work itself is part of the solution to climate change, reducing the need for commuting and lowering carbon footprints. Additionally, businesses are becoming more eco-conscious, which opens opportunities for me to collaborate with brands that prioritize sustainability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these global issues are reshaping how I approach my career and business. They push me to stay adaptable, continually learn, and prepare for uncertainties. By embracing technology, specializing to stand out from the competition, understanding global socio-political shifts, and adapting to environmental challenges, I am positioning myself and my projects for long-term growth and success.
Sustainability is one of the things that I recently discovered is key to the growth of my work in the agricultural space. As much as the issues in the agricultural industry is complex it needs to be driven by the sustainability before it is even decided upon as an issue to consider and look into its sustainability
Technology is transforming more than just my job; it’s changing how I live, think, and interact every day. It’s helping me become more organized, focused, and intentional both professionally and personally. Tasks that used to take hours can now be done in minutes. Communication is faster, collaboration is smoother, and planning feels more structured.
At work, technology helps me stay on top of deadlines, make informed decisions, and focus on the things that matter most. It creates space for clarity, creativity, and growth.
In my organization, as an interior designer and furniture maker, this is how these factors affect our projects;
🔹 1. Technology
🔸 How It Affects:
Design & Visualization Tools: Software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit, and 3D rendering apps allow us to create and present designs with precision, which enhances client trust and approval rates.
Smart Furniture & Automation: Increasing demand for smart homes means clients expect furniture that integrates with tech (like charging ports, hidden lighting, automated features).
CNC Machines & Digital Fabrication: These tools improve speed, accuracy, and consistency in furniture making.
Online Presence & Marketing: Social media, websites, and digital portfolios make it easier to reach a wider audience and showcase our work.
E-commerce & Online Sourcing: One can now order materials, fittings, and décor items online, reducing sourcing time and increasing variety.
🔹 2. Competition
🔸 How It Affects:
Local and Global Designers: We are not just competing with local firms, but with online freelancers and imported furniture brands.
Price Wars: Clients often compare prices online, so you must balance affordability with quality.
Innovation Pressure: Standing out means you must offer unique value, like customized solutions, fast delivery, or sustainable materials.
🔹 3. Social Change
🔸 How It Affects:
Lifestyle Evolution: People now work from home more, so there’s a rising demand for home offices, multipurpose furniture, and ergonomic design.
Sustainability Awareness: More clients prefer eco-friendly materials, reusable décor, and locally made furniture.
Cultural Shifts: Interior design now reflects identity and personal values, such as Afrocentric, minimalist, or spiritual themes.
Customer Expectations: Clients want faster delivery, real-time updates, and a seamless design-to-delivery experience.
Changes the types of projects you take on
🔹 4. Political Change
🔸 How It Affects:
Import/Export Policies: Tariffs or bans on certain materials (wood, steel, fabrics) can raise costs or limit your options.
Economic Policy & Inflation: Government policy affects material prices, availability of loans, and client purchasing power.
Regulations & Taxes: Building codes, trade licenses, VAT policies, or environmental regulations can impact how you work.
Political Stability: In unstable regions, project timelines and client confidence can suffer. Conversely, a pro-development government can boost business via housing or infrastructure policies.
German Tamaranebi Marvelous
Environmental factors like flooding poses great challenge for community base organisations, because, 80 percent of project implementation is done on the field.
My name is Osuji Clara Oluchi, Cohort 26
Team 3
Technology, Society, Politics, Global and Economic Crises can affect my organization and projects in number of ways such as Increase in budgets, Working and following New Trends, Asked to Stop a particular project at hand because of environmental factors such as war, flood, etc