Who Knew It Would Be So Hard?

Project management has a rich history spanning thousands of years, dating back to the pyramids of Egypt. Yet, despite its ongoing presence, project managers often find themselves grappling to establish their foothold in modern workplaces. More often than not, project managers fade into existence and, well, are simply forgotten. This raises the question: why does this struggle persist? I have some insights to share on this matter.

Culture Baby

Back in the early days of my IT career, project managers weren't typically integrated into company structures. Instead, they were brought in solely for specific implementations like Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) or Cisco VoIP projects. Once these endeavors concluded, the project managers would depart, leaving ongoing operations in the hands of company representatives. This transient approach often resulted in a lack of continuity and long-term strategic planning within project management frameworks. Consequently, companies missed out on the benefits of having dedicated project management expertise in-house.

Non-Valued Added

Project managers are often perceived as valuable only during active project phases. The prevailing opinion is that if there's no ongoing project, there's no need for a project manager. However, this viewpoint overlooks the broader strategic role project managers can play in driving organizational efficiency and innovation, even during periods of relative calm. Embracing project management as an ongoing function rather than just a reactive necessity can unlock untapped potential for continuous improvement and sustainable growth within companies.

Companies Are Just Not into Us

Project managers often bear the brunt of negative perceptions, especially when a company has had a bad experience with a previous deployment, leading to a generalized distrust. Overcoming this lingering mindset within leadership circles can prove to be a difficult task, as past disappointments can cast a long shadow over future initiatives. This challenge becomes particularly pronounced when attempting to rebuild trust and demonstrate the value proposition of effective project management practices. However, with persistence, project managers can gradually reshape perceptions and regain the confidence of stakeholders.

The Know-It-All CEO

Well, there it is, spoken aloud for all to hear. Some companies just can't wrap their heads around the idea of embracing project managers because, you know, their leaders believe they know everything. They don't see the value, they don't see the utility, and frankly, they don't even like the concept. Instead, they entertain the notion that Joe from accounting can step in as a makeshift project manager whenever the need arises. Why bother with the real deal when you can go the budget-friendly route, right? Wrong.

In conclusion, the challenges faced by project managers in modern workplaces stem from a variety of factors, including historical perceptions, cultural barriers, and leadership attitudes. From a lack of integration within company structures to being undervalued during non-project phases, project managers often struggle to assert their importance. Nevertheless, we have the power to change the course. By addressing these issues head-on and advocating for the long-term benefits of dedicated project management expertise, companies can cultivate a culture that truly values and embraces the role of project managers in driving organizational success.

Visit www.projectsmadeperfect.com for more project management and leadership insights.