The Right Project Manager

A Mindset Over Experience

When sharing an opportunity for a project manager, it's crucial to emphasize the importance of project management skills over specific product experience. Instead of stating that candidates "Must" have experience with specific products, it would be more effective to highlight the value of having experience in managing projects.

Why Product's Experience Isn't Everything

While having experience with a certain products can be beneficial, it does not align with the core principles of project management. Project management is about how to manage a project, not about the product or technology itself. The essence of project management lies in planning, executing, and closing projects effectively, regardless of the specific product involved.

The Role of Subject Matter Experts (SMEs)

Project managers are not expected to be experts in every technical detail of the projects they oversee. Instead, they rely on SMEs for the technical aspects. This collaboration allows project managers to focus on their primary responsibilities: ensuring that the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the satisfaction of stakeholders.

Ad Hoc vs. Sustainable Success

If the goal is to find an ad hoc project manager for a specific running project, then product experience might suffice. However, for long-term success and the creation of sustainable success stories, it is crucial to look for a project manager with the right mentality. This includes strong leadership skills, the ability to adapt to changing circumstances, and a focus on continuous improvement.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while experience with certain products can be an asset, it should not be the sole criterion for selecting a project manager. The right mindset, coupled with effective collaboration with SMEs, is what truly drives project success. By prioritizing these qualities, organizations can build a foundation for sustainable success and create lasting impact.