Project management is evolving at a rapid pace, driven by technological advances, changing workplace dynamics and the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI). To address these challenges and opportunities, Zenith Vanguard hosted a roundtable discussion as part of the PMI Arts of Projects conference. The session, entitled Lifelong Career Journey and Modern-Day Workplaces, brought together industry leaders, educators and experienced project managers to explore the future of project management.
From combating burnout and navigating the impact of micro-certifications to harnessing AI and honing communication skills, the discussion revealed critical insights that every project manager can relate to. Here are the key takeaways from this engaging session.
𝐁𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐁𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 – 𝐀𝐝𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐢𝐧 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭
Today’s project managers need to adapt quickly to market changes. Flexibility and resilience are more necessary than ever in a world driven by AI and automation.
Daniel Juhasz, MBA, PMP, ACP, a freelance project manager and partner at Zenith Vanguard The Project Management Company, highlighted the increasing incidence of burnout in the profession. Although AI tools are simplifying tasks, the relentless pace and pressure for quick results are jeopardising mental health. Freelancing may offer a way out, allowing individuals the freedom to choose their projects and avenues for personal growth.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐌𝐢𝐜𝐫𝐨-𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬
The roundtable sparked a rich debate on the impact of easily obtainable micro-certificates. While they provide easy access to the field and can be good stepping stones, they also run the risk of diluting the prestige of the profession. According to agile trainer Tamás Csépányi, PMP®, PMI-ACP®, it’s not just a list of certifications that sets a professional apart, but real experience and communication skills.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬
Krisztina Varga, with more than 25 years of experience in executive and financial management, emphasised that success in project management depends not only on technical knowledge but also on communication and dealing with different personalities and teams.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐨𝐥𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐈 𝐢𝐧 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭
AI-powered tools can help alleviate the skills shortage in the project management market. But they cannot replace human qualities such as creativity, empathy and problem-solving skills, says Billal Ben-Redouane, PMP®, vice president of PMI.
The panel concluded that staying informed and adaptable is key to navigating these changes in project management.
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