Inadequately trained and inexperienced project managers is perhaps the number one cause of project failure. The reason why it contributes so much to project failures is because it is the responsibility of the PM to guide the organization as it executes on projects. Just as important as training is experience. Issue management, politics, and diplomacy are examples are things you just can't be training on.
The reason so many projects and therefore project managers fail is that the PMs are not prepared. Executive management fails when they do not understand what it takes to be an effective PM and at the same time don't understand what a difference a trained and experienced PM can make.
What Training Is Needed?
- Understanding the Project Management Body of Knowledge
- General Management
- Understanding the technology being deployed. This will vary based on the project.
As more organizations recognize the link between delivering on commitments and project management skills, the requirements for PMs will increase.
In the end PM's need to keep growing and gaining experiences to be successful.
I don’t disagree with the opinion that PMs must have some level of training to be successful, nor do I disagree that this is an important element in the successful delivery of any project. However, I disagree with the notion that the training and PM directed skills are “the number one cause of project failure.” I don’t believe that being able to distinguish between ETC and NPV would be the type of thing that is going to make or break a project. In my opinion, project success is all about effective and accurate communication.
ReplyDeleteThere is no doubt in my mind that if there were two PMs standing in front of me, one of which was going to manage a project with my life on the line, (yes the hyperbole alert just went off) I am going to select the PM that can communicate over the PM that can recite line and verse from the PMBOK. Not saying that there doesn’t need to be some level of base PM knowledge/skill, I just don’t believe that it belongs at top of your list.
Last thought: Didn’t you ever learn that if you are going to do a countdown, it’s inherent in the name that you start from, in this case, five and work your way down? You’ve already killed the mystery and intrigue for me. The next post better bring the heat…
Great PM’s are great communicators. Without superior written, verbal and nonverbal communication skills, a manager cannot be effective. I would agree the lessons of PMBOK and General Management skills are valuable to a degree, but I prefer PM’s who can navigate the project while also clearing the way for their team.
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