It depends on whether you are talking about the logistical side, or the front lines. For the planning and logistics, it tends to look remarkably similar, although the risk register and risk tolerance are quite a bit different. Saving Changes...
It also depends on what you mean by "project management". In depth plans may need to be shelved after first contact with the enemy, but planning as a discipline, and the soft skills required to be a successful PM will still be needed to inspire and lead troops into battle.
Yes. I have survived a civil war in Africa while working on massive infrastructure projects. We delievered projects ON TIME. I can vouch that only good PM practices helps one to deliver in such environments. The way to succeed is to stick to basics. PMBoK guide never existed during that time.But I can relate to it now. As I read PMBoK later I realized that we were following every process meticulously on paper (No Internet,Computers, etc) to its fine prints. In that context I would say PMBoK is still evolving in right direction. Some basic rules forllowed by EVERY STAKHOLDER were 1) The entire project organization (Sponsors,customers & contractors agreed to work as a family. We worked for each other and not against. 2) The risk register was divided in multiple layers a) Social Behaviours b) Risk process for the projects c) Family disciplines (quality time with family) to be maintained. Our lead time for material procurement was 6 Months hence we were extremely meticulous in planning till the last nut & bolt including designs. In a nutshell 'Knowledge is Power' in such difficult situations, followed by well planned actions... Saving Changes...
MOHAMED ANSARI M AIndependent Consultant| FreelanceKozhikode, Kerala, India
As all of us know some of the powerful Tools n Technics adopted in PMBOK was originally used during war-time. Their effectiveness was furthet testified in other scenarios as well. So i don't like to buy the statement. Saving Changes...
