Project Management Magic: Blending Methodologies and Coaching for Impact!

Last week, I found myself supporting a colleague through a change that she had little control over. In guiding her, I naturally turned to tools like the #JohariWindow and #CircleofControl - which she hadn't encountered before.

While these tools aren't typically associated with project management, they highlight the value of integrating diverse methodologies, including common-sense principles, coaching practices, and frameworks from various industries.

This experience sparked my curiosity:

What other tools do I naturally use or adapt in my everyday work? What other unconventional frameworks could be useful in projects?

?? Methodologies:

Naturally, tailoring and blending methodologies are key. #PRINCE2 provides structured governance and stage gates, complemented by #Agile's adaptive #MoSCoW prioritization, #WSJF, #time-boxing, #kanban, #Scrum and #PIplanning, ensuring efficiency and responsiveness.

?? Tools: Hexagonal

Hexagonal mapping helps us pinpoint cross-organizational portfolio dependencies and sift through surrounding white noise. Though often perceived as unrelated, this noise can significantly impact unforeseen aspects of time, quality, cost, and resources when recognized and managed.

The Johari Window enlightens us about what we know we don't know and uncovers blind spots we may not even be aware of—essential for engaging stakeholders and making informed decisions. Meanwhile, SWOT, PESTLE, and VUCA analyses function like crystal balls, anticipating risks and opportunities from the outset. Porter's Five Forces framework assesses both tangible benefits and intangible factors, offering clarity in our strategic decision-making process.

?? Coaching Tools:

Transactional Analysis (TA) is like a superpower for fostering clear communication and resolving conflicts among team members and stakeholders. It's a toolkit that helps everyone speak the same language and navigate differences effectively. The Iceberg Model and Bridges' Transition Model are guides through the emotional ups and downs of change, diving deep into underlying factors and backed by ADKAR and motivational theories, providing the confidence to move forward.

?? Empowerment:

The Circle of Influence helps us focus on what we can control, empowering individuals and teams to take proactive steps in achieving goals and overcoming challenges. By integrating the Cynefin framework, we become better at navigating various levels of complexity and adjusting our strategies as needed—whether we're dealing with straightforward, intricate, complex, or chaotic situations. When we bring in the Wheel of Life, it also helps us manage client expectations effectively and ensures that our projects stay aligned with their desired outcomes

?? Continuous Improvement:

Techniques like the 5 Whys drive problem-solving effectiveness, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Scenario role-playing exercises simulate real-world challenges, enhancing team collaboration and decision-making.

Exploring these methodologies and coaching strategies has been a game-changer for me in navigating project complexities and achieving success with my clients, teams, and personally. While I'm not claiming to be an expert, these fundamentals have become a core part of who I am. Embracing these new ways of working has been crucial for staying adaptable and consistently effective.

What other tools could I be using to enhance my project management?

What tools do you find invaluable in your project management toolkit?

#ProjectManagement #Agile #PRINCE2 #CoachingTools #Leadership #ChangeManagement #ContinuousImprovement #TeamDynamics

Special thanks to Andrew Gilbert from Worth Learning for his influence :)