Diary of a Rookie Project ManAGER 44

# 44

Wednesday, March 22, 2023

?Dear Diary,

?It's been one year, four months, and two weeks since Dr. Pam from Rock TAB Health System was referred to us by an investment company headquartered in Lagos, the bustling economic hub of the world's most populous black nation.

?This morning, I awoke to the lively chants and exuberance echoing through the city of Jos in Plateau State, Nigeria. The people appear joyous as they celebrate the election of their chosen leader to govern the state. Amid the tension that had gripped the city, sharp enough to be sliced with a knife, one must remain vigilant in this religiously divided environment.

?My morning started with a refreshing exercise routine, engaging in a jog up and down the street until I was drenched in sweat. They say exercise is the foundation for bone and muscle growth while keeping the blood flowing. Although I reckon I get my fair share of exercise at the building construction site in Bukuru, where I traverse the wooden gangway tirelessly, seeking various engineers to ensure timely compliance with the architect's directives.

?A minor dispute arose between the service consultant engineers and the architects regarding the communication, or rather the interpretation, of certain components within the Trauma Center's imaging area. The service engineers were adamant about constructing the external wall of the CT Scan room to accommodate certain services. Conversely, the architects insisted on preserving those walls until the practical completion of the building, citing the CT Scan gantry's size, which would not fit through the door.

?In dealing with Subject Matter Experts, I've come to appreciate that a project manager must remain focused on the ultimate objective and employ diplomatic leadership skills to forge a mutually beneficial outcome. So, we engaged in negotiations, laying our cards on the table and investing time to deliberate.

?Lunch hour found us huddled around the wall of the site office, sticky notes abound, as we brainstormed a favorable solution. Transparently displayed, ideas were akin to children playing a card game, shuffled around until a consensus was reached through a voting process. Our quick thinking and on-your-feet problem-solving led us to a gratifying resolution, and I couldn't have been happier.

?The atmosphere in Jos exudes a jubilant vibe, with perpetual smiles adorning people's faces as if a collective victory was achieved. Even "Mama Ijebu," stationed at the site gate, bestowed extra peanuts upon me. Word has it that the election of the new governor has set the stage for a promising transformation.

?Mr. Tenshak visited the project site brimming with excitement, capturing moments with his phone's camera. We engaged in conversation, touching on the political climate in Plateau State, its potential ramifications for the Trauma Center, and our ongoing review of the PESTLE Analysis.He asked me what PESTLE Analysis was all about so I gave him a bit of what I remember.

A PESTLE analysis is a strategic framework used in project management and business planning to assess the external macro-environmental factors that can impact a project or an organization. It helps project managers identify and understand key influences and potential risks in their operating environment. PESTLE stands for Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, and Environmental factors. Let's delve into each component of the PESTLE analysis in the context of project management:

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Political Factors:

-?????????These factors refer to the influence of government policies, regulations, and political stability on the project.

-?????????Project managers should consider how changes in government, regulations, or policies might impact the project's scope, timeline, or resources.

-?????????Examples include changes in taxation, trade policies, government stability, and political events that might affect the project.

Economic Factors:

-?????????Economic factors encompass the overall economic conditions, trends, and indicators that could affect the project's financial aspects.

-?????????Project managers should analyze factors such as inflation, interest rates, exchange rates, economic growth, and the overall health of the economy.

-?????????Economic changes can influence project budgeting, financing, and resource allocation decisions.

Social Factors:

-?????????Social factors involve the cultural, demographic, and societal trends that can impact the project.

-?????????Project managers need to understand the social attitudes, values, and behaviors of stakeholders and end-users.

-?????????Considerations may include population demographics, consumer preferences, lifestyle changes, and social norms.

Technological Factors:

-?????????Technological factors focus on the advancements and innovations that could affect the project's scope, execution, and outcomes.

-?????????Project managers should assess technological trends, availability of new technologies, and potential disruptions.

-?????????Integration of new technologies or changes in existing systems can influence project planning and implementation strategies.

Legal Factors:

-?????????Legal factors encompass laws, regulations, and legal constraints that could impact the project.

-?????????Project managers need to be aware of industry-specific regulations, compliance requirements, and potential legal risks.

-?????????Legal considerations can affect project design, implementation, contracts, and intellectual property rights.

Environmental Factors:

-?????????Environmental factors relate to ecological and sustainability concerns that may influence the project's design and execution.

-?????????Project managers should consider environmental regulations, resource availability, and potential environmental impacts.

-?????????Environmental considerations can affect project design, construction methods, and long-term sustainability.

By conducting a thorough PESTLE analysis, project managers can gain insights into the external factors that may affect their projects. This analysis helps in identifying potential risks, opportunities, and challenges, allowing project managers to develop informed strategies, adapt their plans, and make decisions that align with the project's goals and the organization's overall strategic direction. It's important to note that the impact of each factor can vary depending on the specific project, industry, and geographical location.

And so I hope I have settled my acceptance speech on convicting you dear Diary that PESTLE Analysis is important for project success in Africa. lol

#PESTLEANALYSIS #projectmanagement #project

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