It’s no surprise to learn that technology and resources evolve and improve with each passing year. However, if you are going to make the most of these developments, you need to understand what they are and how they impact your role as a project manager. Read on for three project management trends that you can expect to see become more popular for the remainder of 2019.
Artificial Intelligence is Here to Stay
The use of artificial intelligence, or AI, reached an all-time high across multiple industries in 2018, and that rate of growth isn’t slowing down any time soon. In fact, AI is predicted to make more of an impact in 2019 than ever before. But this doesn’t mean you are being replaced in your role as a project manager. It does, however, impact the way you do your work and change your daily processes – if you take advantage of everything AI has to offer.
For instance, you likely communicate with your team members on a regular basis. You need to have regular updates on which parts of your projects are currently underway, which steps still need to be taken, and how your team is managing all of their tasks. Thanks to artificial intelligence, you can spend less time asking for updates and more time reviewing information that you need. You can use AI to do everything from creating chatbots that help potential clients find the answers they need, to assist you in visualizing and reviewing the data from your project and team members.
No matter how you think you may use artificial intelligence, you can know one thing for sure – it isn’t going away anytime soon. So embrace the revolutions and efficiency that AI can bring to your team.
Virtual Team Members Is Becoming the Norm
Now more than ever, companies across every industry find themselves working with team members who are working remotely from another city, state, or even another country. This concept is not unique to 2019, but its implementation has skyrocketed over recent months. As a project manager, it’s important that you realize two things: 1) This trend, like AI, is here to stay. 2) You can take advantage of this trend to expand your services and client base – but you need to have a plan.
Working with teams who you don’t see on a regular basis comes with its own set of unique challenges – coordinating people across different time zones, maintaining a schedule that works for both your teams and the client, and making sure that you have a way to check in with your teams regularly are just a few of the considerations you will need to make.
However, working with virtual team members has its advantages, too. People working in different areas may have access to ideas or resources that you would otherwise not be able to use. This also gives you the opportunity to reach out to different vendors and even other project managers to learn what the latest updates are on everything from building materials to new technology to potential clients. Creating a global network of contacts is a great way to expand your own business.
People Skills Matter More Than Ever
You know that your clients are looking to you for your expertise. It is up to you to show them why you are the very best choice to meet each need of their project. However, it isn’t all about what you know – it’s also about how you interact with your clients.
In a world where technology is king, many of the basic interpersonal niceties have gone by the wayside across all types of industries. But, according to recent studies, your clients may value something simple like a handshake as much as they value your ability to coordinate and complete their project.
This goes for your employees, too – you’re the leader, so you must find out what motivates your team to succeed and make sure you incorporate those things into your daily work routine. Intentional listening, tactful negotiating, and anticipating needs from your team will go a long way to help your operation run smoothly. No matter how large your project is, it relies on people to make it happen, so be sure to lead yours in a way that brings success to both team members and clients.
About Impact Construction Management
Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, Impact Construction Management is a full-service construction management firm. Founded by Louis Buonaiuto and Richard Bowlin, Impact Construction Management has been managing construction projects for clients throughout the Midwest and South for over 10 years. From our very first project to today, our focus has been on delivering the results our clients want by providing responsive service, up-front pricing and the highest-quality workmanship.
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