Project Management Around the World: A Cultural Perspective

Is project management the same everywhere, or does it take on unique flavors depending on the country you're in? Let's embark on a journey to explore the world of project management in three distinct locations: Russia, the United States, and Israel.

Russia: Balancing Act Between Rigidity and Flexibility

In Russia, as in many post-Soviet countries, project management often revolves around strict adherence to timelines and budget constraints. Demonstrating loyalty, even if it means bending the rules a bit, can sometimes outweigh professionalism. Moreover, it's crucial to strike a balance between rigorous control and flexibility in managing people and resources. Stringent local regulations can be circumvented or interpreted in your favor if you have good relations with those overseeing compliance.

Personal Anecdote: My initial encounter with project management occurred while I was still a student at Moscow State University. We launched a project called "Star Chat" on the CTC TV channel, one of the first fully interactive projects on Russian TV. Writers, musicians, and politicians engaged with us in real-time conversations. Back then, this required coordination with the service we used because their servers sometimes struggled to handle the load. Imagine conducting an online session with the pop duo "t.A.T.u." – it was quite the experience. What stood out, though, was when our guest, Ivan Shapovalov, producer of "t.A.T.u.," appeared with a real AK-47 in hand. Not a prop – a real, fully functional rifle. That evening, things got intense, but I was relieved when our entire team safely left the "battlefield"!

Kudos to Ivanov Sergey aka Germes. That was a glorious time, wasn't it?

The United States: Innovation Focus and Customer Experience

The United States is renowned for its emphasis on innovation and customer experience. Project managers here must be prepared for constant change and quick adaptations to evolving markets. However, maintaining a positive attitude through it all is essential. In the U.S., the evaluation doesn't stop at a project's outcome; it extends to how satisfied the customer is with the process itself. Rituals play a significant role, and being meticulous with your choice of words is crucial.

Personal Anecdote: During a casual conversation in the marketing department, my boss was explaining the preparations for a major event in Silicon Valley. Unexpectedly, we learned that the star presenter, sponsored by a third party, would not handle their own makeup, and we needed to prepare their speaking notes urgently. I was more temperamental back then than I am now, and I took offense at this situation. Were we supposed to do their job for a hefty fee? I voiced my frustration in a rather blunt way, explaining that it's not our job. I used the Russian idiom "literary n***o", simply translated into English. My usually tolerant boss was momentarily speechless. He couldn't bring himself to scold me but said, "Let's make a deal: I didn't hear your last phrase." From that day forward, I knew that in America, there are no "literary n***os", only "writing dogsbodies."

Nick Chase I'm missing you much! Thank you for your time, patience, and empathy you invested in me that time! I always remember you!

Israel: Technology Focus and Start-Up Culture

Israel is celebrated for its high-tech industry and hyperactive start-up culture. Project managers here often engage in developing new products and technologies, predominantly for export. However, the Middle Eastern temperament is undeniable. There's no fear of making mistakes; instead, creative problem-solving and entrepreneurial spirit thrive. Also, legalization—yes, that includes liberal views on certain recreational activities—plays a part.

Personal Anecdote: Not long ago, I found myself in a crucial negotiation, representing a startup aiming to secure American investments. As we started with the usual small talk, one of the American investors caught my eye – his face seemed oddly familiar.

As the conversation flowed, it hit me like a bolt from the blue – this investor had been a frequent visitor to the penthouse of the Pekin Hotel in Moscow. Now, what makes this so remarkable is that nearly two decades ago, I had produced an online project called "t.A.T.u. in Podnebesnaya," (see above) and those very penthouse walls had witnessed much of our work.

This unexpected connection from my past life in Russia turned out to be the bridge that helped us establish common ground during negotiations. It served as a vivid reminder that in a project manager's career, nothing ever happens by sheer chance. Every experience and connection, no matter how distant, can play a significant role when you least expect it. Have you ever had such greetings from the past?