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.
In previous establishment which was a Civil Engineering firm, the soaring price of raw materials hamper a lot of our projects in period of time. Budgets provided per project could not see such projects to completion. This led to suspension of multiple projects as our clients who were individuals instead of companies and firms were unable to pay for those projects and see to their completion. This strongly emphasized the for the need for an organization to critical consider the various complexities introduced by global changes when determining the projects they want to work on.
Edeh Chibueze Goodluck
Team 3, Cohort 16
Stephen Izuchukwu Emeasoba.
Cohort 16, Team 9.
Thinking about complexity and considering how major global issues like technology, competition, social and political changes, and environmental problems, impact organizations and projects.
Currently in Nigeria, the daily declining economic situation due to political changes, has resulted to the highest level of inflation that have never been experienced in the country, which have made acquiring new technologies almost out of reach and have more than tripled the cost of doing business.
These has lead to social and environmental problems which have negatively impacted organizations and projects. And have also forced some organizations like mine to suspend operations /projects, and others to exit the country.
understanding the root causes of complexity, developing robust plans, remaining agile, fostering collaborative workflows, and harnessing technological advancements, project managers can skillfully navigate the intricate web of complex projects.
My name is Kingsley Okpoko, team 7, cohort 16.
Considering the major global issues like technology, competition, social and political changes, and environmental problems, and its impact to my organization and projects we are involved in, i would say it affects it both positively and negatively.
I am in the financial sector, when the competition is very high, which in that sense you will have to bring your A game to the table in order to be in the game with others.
Also political changes paly a crucial part in projects because a change in regulatory policies can in turn affects the projects i.e. laying off some stakeholders to cut off cuts in order to be able to keep the project running.
though it take a very good project manage to be able to over this complexities and deliver on projects.
To address this, I will briefly give a spotlight on my construction activities. Project involves complexities and it requires not only academic knowledge but a skilled mind as well or better says being street smart.
Many days you will have multiple tasks to supervise including the ones that won’t have to be under your direct supervision but indirectly, you must provide oversight for a successful result to be accumulated.
Effective project management in complex environments demands a strategic, adaptive, and integrated approach. By identifying and understanding the root causes of complexity, developing robust plans, remaining agile, fostering collaborative workflows, and harnessing technological advancements, project managers can skillfully navigate the intricate web of complex projects. The ultimate objective is to deliver project goals while mitigating risks and optimizing stakeholder satisfaction.
Considering the major global issues like technology, competition, social and political changes, and environmental problems, and its impact to my organization and the projects i am involved in right now it is super complex and it needs a high level of mental and material involvement to successfully finish up the project due to high cost of commodities.
As a business owner where competition is high i need a best strategy to apply in my business that will help me keep my customers.
Talking about complexity in my business; i will always try to make decision that will be beneficial to both my customers and my staffs. Also make room or be open to accept suggest that will help the business.
THINKING ABOUT COMPLEXITY.
First I will say that complexity is the opposite of simplicity, if something is not complex, it is simple. Reflecting to the world economy state especially Nigeria everything is complex and extremely difficult.
Considering the major global issues like technology, competition, social and political changes, and environmental problems, and its impact to my organization and the projects i am involved in right now it is super complex and it needs a high level of mental involvement to successfully finish up the project due to high cost of commodities.
In tech industry which i am now, where the competition is very high but average in demand due minimal knowledge of tech in our communities, one needs to critically think and analyze the best strategy to use to convince both the young and old on the relevance of tech knowledge in our tech world. Convincing them doesn’t end there what about the necessary resources needed, and personnel to manage the people. It become so complex to make available the right resources and recruit the right personnel with the adequate and good knowledge needed to bit the competition level in the tech system where good number of individuals are on social media giving out tech knowledge free or even at very low cost at all levels.
However, thinking about complexity in this context as a project manager i will ensure the industry simplify their strategy, the organization of the industry, products, processes and information technology systems, as this aims at removing unnecessarily complex processes which hinder change, speed, growth or increase cost. Lastly, encourage building the capacity in one self, the people, the products, and the industry, to adapt continuously and learn speedily, in order to maximize the chances of seizing fleeting opportunities.
Managing complexity in project management requires a strategic, adaptive, and holistic approach. By understanding the sources of complexity, planning effectively, maintaining flexibility, fostering collaboration, and leveraging technology, project managers can navigate the intricate landscape of complex projects. Ultimately, the goal is to achieve project objectives while minimizing risks and maximizing stakeholder satisfaction.
In the project I have been involved in, technology, competition, social and political change and the environmental crisis have impacted significantly to these project.
1. Technology: AI and Digital Tools:
Positive Impact: The introduction of AI has streamlined various processes, enhancing efficiency and productivity. Tasks that once took significant time and effort can now be automated, allowing for quicker data analysis, better decision-making, and more innovative solutions.
Negative Impact: Over-reliance on AI can lead to a decline in critical thinking and problem-solving skills among employees. Additionally, the learning curve for experienced workers unfamiliar with these tools can delay project timelines and reduce overall effectiveness.
2. Competition:
Positive Impact: Healthy competition drives continuous improvement and innovation. Organizations strive to enhance their offerings, improve quality, and deliver exceptional results to win bids and contracts, thereby raising industry standards.
Negative Impact: Intense competition can lead to cost-cutting measures that compromise project integrity and quality. When organizations prioritize winning bids over maintaining high standards, it can result in subpar project outcomes and damage to reputation.
3. Social and Political Change:
Positive Impact: Progressive social and political policies can create a favourable business environment, encouraging investment, innovation, and growth. Stable political conditions foster confidence and long-term planning.
Negative Impact: Unstable political environments and unfavourable policies can lead to uncertainty and risk for businesses. For instance, in Nigeria, political instability has driven multinational companies to exit the market, impacting the local economy and disrupting business operations.
4. Environmental Crises:
Positive Impact: Growing awareness and regulatory pressure related to environmental sustainability push organizations to adopt eco-friendly practices, contributing to long-term environmental conservation and corporate social responsibility.
Negative Impact: Environmental crises can significantly disrupt project timelines and budgets. For example, Shell’s exploration activities in the Niger Delta have led to environmental degradation, affecting local livelihoods and leading to social unrest. Compensation and remediation efforts become necessary, adding complexity and cost to projects.