Can You "Create Power" by Focusing on the Big PIcture?


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Project Management 2.0

  by - Dave Garrett

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Can You "Create Power" by Focusing on the Big PIcture?

Situation: You want to be more influential in your PM role.

In my last posting, I discussed the Triple Constraint and whether its a good success standard or even a good focal point for project managers today. In this posting, I wanted to touch on a follow-on concept that Aaron Shenhar described in his PMI Chapter presentation. He said that "Project Managers have a terrific opportunity to Create Power by focusing on higher level issues versus technical project success".

PM as Strategist
He said that if PMs focus on creating competitive advantage by thoroughly understanding that aspect of the project and keeping the project focused on achieving that advantage - they are more likely to acheive real success.

PM as Visionary
He also said that "spirit" is important in that the PM must create excitement by articulating a clear view of the future - effectively a "project vision".


I would say that to put this into action you need:
- To be sure your project is a "competitive advantage" project.
- To have your head high enough above the weeds to clearly see the big picture and completely understand the competitive advantage. (Investing a significant amount of time with upper management both in the beginning and throughout the project.
- Ensure you have the right sponsor.


What other things are key to making this work?

| Posted: May 24, 2008 03:34 PM | Permalink |


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