George FreemanThought Leader | Author | Architect| Florida, United States
Cynically stated, does it feel like it would be less controversial to identify ourselves as “a manager of projects” versus a “project manager?” It sounds ridiculous when stated aloud, but have you seen elements of truth struggling to appear from the depths of this statement?
Why is this role so coveted and seemingly reviled (by some) at the same time? Should we be concerned about the maturation of these negative sentiments and their basis for being, or is our recognition of them an aberration?
Although largely conjecture, here are some possible culprits to this negativity:
- Those who view project managers as unnecessary administrative middlemen. - Those who view project management approaches as fossilized remnants of the past. - Those who have had a bad experience with someone identified as a project manager. - Those who view their role and, or expertise as the rightful designate of project manager. - Those who financially prosper or gain opportunity when project management “takes a hit.” - Those who have contentious philosophical disagreements with a principle or process associated with project management.
What is your experience in this regard, and your recommendation on how we should respond? Saving Changes...
I do agree that past poor experiences with checklist or accidental PMs might cause some to loathe the title. Plus there are industries where they have adopted the title for use by sales people (e.g. window installation companies) or even customer support staff!
If we consider alternatives, I still feel the PM title is the most appropriate because what we do is project management. Calling it anything else dilutes its purpose.
Kiron
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1 reply by George Freeman
Sep 12, 2021 9:36 AM
George Freeman
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Hi Kiron,
My opening thoughts regarding “what we call ourselves” is cynically and rhetorically stated, as I’m trying to make a point regarding the perspectives of our field that some hold. I would never suggest that the PM Title be anything other than what it is – so, my apologies.
My question is this: What should be our approach, and how should we respond to those who have a negative perspective on project management?
For example: Are philosophical responses a good strategy; do we point out what we believe are their fallacies; do we use empathy; do we debate, etc.
Saving Changes...
George FreemanThought Leader | Author | Architect| Florida, United States
Sep 12, 2021 7:39 AM
Replying to Kiron Bondale
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George -
I do agree that past poor experiences with checklist or accidental PMs might cause some to loathe the title. Plus there are industries where they have adopted the title for use by sales people (e.g. window installation companies) or even customer support staff!
If we consider alternatives, I still feel the PM title is the most appropriate because what we do is project management. Calling it anything else dilutes its purpose.
Kiron
Hi Kiron,
My opening thoughts regarding “what we call ourselves” is cynically and rhetorically stated, as I’m trying to make a point regarding the perspectives of our field that some hold. I would never suggest that the PM Title be anything other than what it is – so, my apologies.
My question is this: What should be our approach, and how should we respond to those who have a negative perspective on project management?
For example: Are philosophical responses a good strategy; do we point out what we believe are their fallacies; do we use empathy; do we debate, etc. Saving Changes...
Peter RapinSubject Matter Expect; Project Delivery| Independent ConsultantOntario, Canada
I don't think you can influence those that have negative opinions with logic and discussion. Like-minded people tend to find support on internet sites (echo chamber) regardless of the validity of their opinions. With some it may be personal experience with others its "troll instincts" - write anything to get a reaction.
The majority of people recognise the need for management and are truly trying to improve their ability to deliver good management. Focus on them rather than the naysayers.
If one feels they have to respond (I do at times) its best to remind them that their one experience or a run-in with a particular person or situation is insufficient grounds for a general conclusion that everything is bad.
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1 reply by George Freeman
Sep 12, 2021 2:50 PM
George Freeman
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Hi Peter,
It’s seemingly interesting that we get “naysayers” on PMC. In that, this is a PMI (the generally recognized global authority on project management) site, where project management is understood to be supported and its benefits proclaimed. But then it makes sense when you look at the description of PMC, which states, “here’s your chance to spill your guts--everything you ever wanted to know about project management but were afraid to ask.”
So, it would seem that we are inviting those of all opinions to express their questions and thoughts, with an expectation that they will get a response that supports project management (again, since this is a PMI site). That would seem to portray that PMC is, in part, purposed for debate – yes, no, maybe?
Sustained positive experiences are the best tonic for this malady. I've seen stakeholders who loathed PMs becoming the strongest advocates for the role after working with a capable PM on a challenging project.
What's in a name?
At our parent company, a PM is the program manager of a project, while that PM reports to the Manager of the Projects department, called the MP (Manager of Projects)
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1 reply by George Freeman
Sep 12, 2021 1:55 PM
George Freeman
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Roland,
I understand what you are saying, as I’ve been a project manager most of my career but have never held a formal title that included any wording directly associated with the field. So yes, “what’s in a name.”
It’s the “project manager role” that I’m speaking to in my question. Good point!
Saving Changes...
George FreemanThought Leader | Author | Architect| Florida, United States
Sep 12, 2021 1:31 PM
Replying to Roland Vander Straeten
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What's in a name?
At our parent company, a PM is the program manager of a project, while that PM reports to the Manager of the Projects department, called the MP (Manager of Projects)
Roland,
I understand what you are saying, as I’ve been a project manager most of my career but have never held a formal title that included any wording directly associated with the field. So yes, “what’s in a name.”
It’s the “project manager role” that I’m speaking to in my question. Good point! Saving Changes...
some people are even quibbling whether it should be project or program manager. Saving Changes...
George FreemanThought Leader | Author | Architect| Florida, United States
Sep 12, 2021 10:11 AM
Replying to Peter Rapin
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I don't think you can influence those that have negative opinions with logic and discussion. Like-minded people tend to find support on internet sites (echo chamber) regardless of the validity of their opinions. With some it may be personal experience with others its "troll instincts" - write anything to get a reaction.
The majority of people recognise the need for management and are truly trying to improve their ability to deliver good management. Focus on them rather than the naysayers.
If one feels they have to respond (I do at times) its best to remind them that their one experience or a run-in with a particular person or situation is insufficient grounds for a general conclusion that everything is bad.
Hi Peter,
It’s seemingly interesting that we get “naysayers” on PMC. In that, this is a PMI (the generally recognized global authority on project management) site, where project management is understood to be supported and its benefits proclaimed. But then it makes sense when you look at the description of PMC, which states, “here’s your chance to spill your guts--everything you ever wanted to know about project management but were afraid to ask.”
So, it would seem that we are inviting those of all opinions to express their questions and thoughts, with an expectation that they will get a response that supports project management (again, since this is a PMI site). That would seem to portray that PMC is, in part, purposed for debate – yes, no, maybe? Saving Changes...
Peter RapinSubject Matter Expect; Project Delivery| Independent ConsultantOntario, Canada
I agree that everyone is entitled to their opinion and recognise that the forum is in itself an echo chamber for those who 'believe'. Keeping that in mind most of us are prepared to advise and help those who truly want to understand and possibly improve their skill set. However, we should limit our time investment in anyone that continues to argue that project management, and those that practice such, are a waste of time and effort. I don't think those participants can be convinced by mere logic. They are prone to look at one facet and use a singular experience to demonstrate their point.
In most cases it is not project management that failed but the ineffective application of project management. Saving Changes...
Thomas WalentaGlobal Project Economy ExpertHackenheim, Germany
Any confident group benefits from exploring its boundaries, listening to 'nay-sayers' and provocative agents. I often use the tactics of providing different and even controversial arguments to the mainline of thinking. From time to time it opens the way to make changes to the profession (or not).
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1 reply by George Freeman
Sep 13, 2021 7:33 PM
George Freeman
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Hi Thomas,
I’m in complete agreement with you; challenge-based thought and discussions provide the opportunity for one to branch out beyond mainline thought. Once you break free, you can then (more appropriately) examine the merits of a given mainline position and challenge it forward and beyond its current propositional value.
Unfortunately, the “or not” seems to prevail as “challenge-based” approaches seem to be (unfortunately) out-of-touch with the times.
