Topic Teasers Vol. 8: Project Data Flow

Have a question you would like to submit as a potential Topic Teaser? Send a message to Barbee Davis today!

  Communications Management   Knowledge Management   Lessons Learned   Using PMI Standards  

My team seldom seems to be able to communicate effectively about project data and reports, even using the most specific common words. And we disagree on whose meaning is correct. How do we find a reputable source to rely on to clear up these misunderstandings?

A. Whichever team member has the most years with the organization should be allowed to define terms for the team to adopt. Defer to this person.

B.  The field of knowledge management is being used as a common foundation for defining terms for the project management field and beyond.

C. Ask the person who has the most recent PMI certification, as those with older certifications may not understand today’s project management practices.

D. The National Association of Project Management Dictionary should be the standard for all project managers, regardless of where they reside.

Answer: B. The field of knowledge management is being used as a common foundation for defining terms for the project management field and beyond.

With so much emphasis on standardizing on a particular methodology or “best practice” and being sure it is consistent throughout the organization, little attention is often paid to the very real issue of making sure everyone on the team truly understands the meaning of the processes adopted. Trying to talk among teammates when each person has a …

Please log in or sign up below to read the rest of the article.