Project Professionals: How to Maximize Success and Create Lasting Value

Introduction

Project success is not only the result of great ideas or excellent planning. It is deeply influenced by the role of project professionals, who are responsible for driving execution, engaging stakeholders, and delivering real value. The PMI report (Report 2024 – Maximizing Project Success) emphasizes how expanding the role of project professionals goes beyond technical delivery, enabling them to take on a strategic leadership role in ensuring continued success and value creation throughout the project lifecycle.

1. Expanding the Role of Project Professionals

Historically, project professionals were limited to executing and managing schedules and budgets. However, as the profession has evolved, it is now expected that project professionals take on a more strategic responsibility, ensuring the delivery of sustainable value. This involves adopting a holistic perspective, one that focuses not only on delivering tasks but also on the long-term results that a project generates.

• For project professionals: They should position themselves as strategic leaders, ensuring that the project creates real value for the organization and stakeholders, and contributes to broader goals.
• For executives: They need to empower project professionals to take on broader responsibilities, providing them with the skills and authority to lead strategically and create value throughout the project.

2. Managing Expectations and Communication

Project professionals are also crucial in managing expectations. Even if a project is technically well-executed, it will only be deemed successful if it meets the expectations of stakeholders. Continuous communication and managing stakeholder expectations are key to ensuring that everyone involved is aligned and satisfied with the project’s results.

• For project professionals: They should maintain transparent and ongoing communication with all stakeholders, ensuring that expectations are clearly managed and everyone is aligned with the project’s goals.
• For executives: They need to support strategic communication and help mediate conflicts between stakeholders, ensuring that all parties remain engaged and informed throughout the project lifecycle.

3. Strategic Leadership and Influencing Success

The ability to influence and motivate stakeholders is vital for project success. Project professionals must be inspiring leaders, guiding their teams with clarity and commitment to the project’s goals.

• For project professionals: They should lead by example, motivating their teams to achieve exceptional results while ensuring everyone understands the project’s importance and its contribution to the organization’s overall success.
• For executives: They need to encourage leadership within project teams, ensuring that project professionals have the autonomy and resources needed to lead effectively.

4. Continuous Learning and Development

To ensure project success, it is essential that project professionals are engaged in continuous learning. The ongoing development of their skills and knowledge is key to managing new challenges, applying new methodologies, and staying current with the latest industry practices.

• For project professionals: They should continuously seek learning opportunities to improve their skills and expertise, participating in workshops, trainings, and mentorship to stay updated on best practices.
• For executives: They must invest in training programs and provide learning opportunities for project professionals, supporting their professional development and ensuring they are prepared for the future challenges.

Conclusion

Project professionals are more than just executors of tasks. They play a crucial strategic role in maximizing project success and creating lasting value. By expanding their responsibilities and positioning themselves as strategic leaders, project professionals can ensure that projects not only meet technical objectives but also deliver real value for stakeholders and society.

Wladimir Dezembro Leonelo

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dezembro/

Estude na EG3P®