PMBoK7 Perspectives: Navigate Complexity
The Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBoK7) talks about navigating complexity to successfully complete the project lifecycle. Although complexity can surface anywhere, there are four main sources of complexity to manage. Here’s an overview of those sources and tips for reducing the impact of complexity on projects.
- Human behavior. The most significant project complexity comes from people. Personal agendas, personality conflicts, fear-triggered behaviors, and unrealistic expectations present significant challenges. In a virtual world, misinterpreted communications, cultural norms and leadership styles create issues. To address this complexity, listen carefully and seek to understand what people are saying. In addition, be sure to focus on using emotional intelligence and compassion with everyone on the project.
- System behavior. The way technology systems interact can introduce complexity. This is amplified with interaction between old and new technology where synchronizing data can be complex. As system complexity increases, finding and training support personnel becomes more difficult and time consuming. Dealing with this takes time, so business and project managers must be patient! Systems must be “decoupled” – that is, analyzed and broken down into simple functions. Then, the team must examine each of those functions and ensure that relevant stakeholders understand how those functions work in concert with their business processes.
- Uncertain and ambiguous requirements. Requirements, even those that appear straightforward, can introduce complexity. Uncertain definitions or misinterpreted directions from stakeholders can create significant delays. People misinterpret ambiguous requirements, which can drive projects into costly detours. Correcting this requires time to analyze and examine requirements and resolve any uncertainty and ambiguity. Patience and time with business stakeholders is critical to clarifying requirements.
- Technological Innovation. Innovation is disruptive and can create substantial complexity. To address this, project teams need to embrace the value that organizational change management contributes to business outcomes. Take time to help people adjust to the change journey. Conduct process training and provide people with the opportunity to get comfortable with new technological solutions. That way, stakeholders become confident with the new solution and their ability to perform their jobs in a new way.
What other types of complexity have you encountered and how have you handled it? Share your experiences with us in the comments section.
For more about project complexity, check out Sam Yankelevitch’s Project Complexity Tips and Tricks course.
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