May 24, 2024 5:41 AM
Replying to Sergio Luis Conte
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With the new generation of generative AI portfolio/program/project manager and business analyst role "are dead" at least in the way they were originally defined. I think a good source to understand that are the two courses on generative AI delivered for free by the PMI, mainly if you see the 3 layer model.
Thank you, Sarah, for initiating this important discussion—and Sergio, I appreciate your bold perspective. The idea that generative AI has rendered traditional PM and BA roles “dead” is certainly provocative, and I agree that the PMI’s free courses on GenAI and the three-layer model offer valuable insights into how our profession is evolving.
That said, I’d like to offer a slightly different take—not on the end of project management, but on its transformation.
1. AI Needs Oversight: Generative AI is powerful, but it’s not infallible. Without the supervision of an experienced PM, AI outputs can be flawed or even harmful. The principle of “garbage in, garbage out” still applies. Human judgment remains essential.
2. Data Quality is Critical: The effectiveness of prompt engineering depends heavily on the quality of the data it draws from. Only a seasoned PM or BA can reliably detect hallucinations or inconsistencies in AI-generated content.
3. Prompt Engineering is a Skill—Not a Shortcut: Crafting effective prompts is an iterative, creative process. Experienced PMs are more likely to generate prompts that yield meaningful, context-aware results.
4. Structuring Data for AI: One of the most valuable emerging roles for PMs is ensuring that project data is clean, well-structured, and AI-ready. This foundational work is critical to unlocking AI’s full potential.
5. Differentiation Through Integration: I strongly agree with Md. Golam Rob Talukdar's comment that while AI may streamline certain tasks, PMs who combine technical fluency, emotional intelligence, and strategic thinking will continue to command high value.
6. AI as a Productivity Multiplier, Not a Replacement: In the short to medium term, AI will augment—not replace—project managers. It will automate routine tasks, freeing us to focus on leadership, innovation, and stakeholder engagement.
7. Ethical Leadership is Key: As experienced PMs, we have a responsibility to ensure that AI tools are used ethically and transparently. Our track records of integrity position us to lead this charge.
In short, I don’t believe our roles are dead—they’re being redefined. Those who embrace AI as a partner, not a threat, will find themselves more relevant than ever.
PMI Team Member
