I have often said the speed of change is accelerating. The age-old quote that ‘change is the only constant’ still rings true.

As the CEO of PM-Partners, I have watched the landscape of the project management industry transform significantly through digital technologies and our customer’s ever-changing needs and expectations. So, to bring us into the new year I have listed below what I believe will be the project management trends for 2020.

1. Hybrid project management approaches are the new norm. Projects are not created equal and the concept of hybrid approaches is here to stay. The combining of different methodologies to fit the project deliverables is critical to delivering value. Combining agile methodologies where applicable with traditional approaches creates the ‘fit for purpose’ models that will bring value to our customers.
2. Companies will look to AI (Artificial Intelligence) and AoT (Analytics of Things) to perform commoditised tasks and enhance decision making. AI is already being used in Project Management to perform daily tasks that traditionally require human effort. AoT is used to provide performance insights for leadership teams to make ‘fact based’ decisions to improve business performance.
3. The blending of technology and neuroscience. This involves delving into complex human behaviour and ultimately working to understand the thinking patterns of peers and clients equally. Neuroscience allows us to have a better understanding of how individuals in an organisation will respond to change, therefore allowing a Project Manager to adapt their leadership style to suit the team. It will permit greater visibility of impediments to teamwork and resistance to change. The combining of neuroscience and technology will also give us superior, advanced decision making, as well as harmonious, high performing teams with the ability to identify client needs while delivering successful outcomes.
4. Soft skills are a must for project managers. Managing projects goes beyond defining the scope, meeting deadlines and deciding the budget. Project Managers must successfully manage people. Project Managers will be defined by strong leadership and negotiation skills that motivate project teams for goal achievement.
5. Project management tools have become an indispensable part of project management. The numbers tell the same story. Research suggests that 77% of high-performing projects are managed through project management software. This allows Project Managers to successfully plan, execute and control all aspects of the project. We can also expect more sophisticated software including visual representations of project delivery.

No doubt, 2020 will bring more change in the industry, however, the most important resource remains constant – competent people with strong values. What trends do you see emerging in 2020? Share your thoughts in the comments.