Over the past decade, project management has undergone a dramatic evolution in its approach and methodology. The advent of powerful project management software and more widespread connectivity, the rising popularity of the Agile project management methodology and its widely applicable principles, and various evolutions in industry standard best practices and resource management strategies have combined to place new and differing demands on project managers, while also making such roles accessible to people with different levels of qualification and knowledge, depending on the role you're after - for some roles, you may want a Master of Project Management even if you're already well qualified in your field.
Software
Project management software programs like Microsoft Project, Basecamp, and Asana have revolutionized the way projects are managed from start to finish, allowing for a more streamlined and efficient process. Advanced customer resource management (CRM) systems like Salesforce have also enabled businesses to better understand their customers' needs by aggregating data, while simultaneously managing a variety of tasks related to those needs. When combined with the ubiquity of high speed internet and 4G/5G networks, and the improved capability of personal computers and smartphones, these tools have made it easier than ever for teams located around the world to collaborate on complex projects with ease, breaking down geographical barriers and facilitating seamless communication and coordination.
Methodology
Perhaps more than any single technology, Agile methodology has revolutionized the way project management is conceived and implemented. Agile methodology is based on the idea that the parameters of a project are constantly changing and evolving, and that the needs of customers should be prioritized over production limitations, or "people over process." Instead of creating a detailed plan at the beginning of the project that must be rigidly followed to completion, Agile methodology allows for changes to be made as the project progresses. This approach allows for a more flexible and responsive process, making it easier to adapt to changing requirements and unexpected challenges.
Agile methodology is implemented through the use of frameworks, such as Scrum, Kanban, and Lean. These frameworks provide a structure for Agile methodology, outlining the roles, practices, and ceremonies that are used to implement Agile methodology.
Scrum
Perhaps the most noteworthy Agile framework is Scrum. Scrum is a framework that is used to manage and complete complex projects. It has been designed around software development project management, but its principles can be applied in nearly any industry. Scrum is based on the idea that work is divided into small chunks, called sprints, usually 2-4 weeks. During each sprint, a cross-functional team works on a specific set of tasks, with the goal of delivering working software at the end of the sprint.
Cross-functionality is a skill that is becoming increasingly important for project managers. Being able to work across multiple departments within an organization provides invaluable insights into areas such as operations, finance, and marketing, allowing the manager greater control over all aspects of any given task or initiative they oversee. This ability to understand and coordinate the efforts of different departments is essential to produce not only functional products, but to ensure that projects within organizations that have common interests or utilize common resources can collaborate to utilize their resources more efficiently or combine their efforts.
Risk Assessment
Proactive risk assessment has also become standard practice among today's top organizations. Rather than waiting until issues arise before addressing them head-on with reactive measures, many companies are now taking a much more proactive stance towards potential risks associated with every element involved in their respective projects - from cost analysis through resource allocation right down to longer term considerations like energy efficiency. The shift towards green energy initiatives has meant that proper resource utilization must be taken into account during planning stages if a company hopes to achieve maximum efficiency throughout their entire operation and the lifecycle of a product, something which was rarely considered just ten years ago.
It's clear that modern-day project management has more support from technology than ever, but also requires greater attention paid both to technical detail and human resources than in past generations. While there remain certain core principles upon which successful completion depends, technology advances coupled with increased global connectivity demand far more sophisticated strategies when tackling large-scale endeavors. Those who possess knowledge about these trends will no doubt find themselves well-positioned to succeed within this highly competitive industry moving forward. The ever-evolving technology and changing business needs require Project Managers to be adaptable and have a holistic understanding of the business - only such a holistic approach will lead to more successful projects and a brighter future for industry and technology.
