Innovation in Project Management

Can we innovate in Project Management?

"Yes!"

Innovation per Google:

in·no·va·tion

ˌinəˈvāSH(ə)n/

noun

noun: innovation

1. the action or process of innovating.

   synonyms:

   change, alteration, revolution, upheaval, transformation, metamorphosis, breakthrough; More new measures, new methods, modernization, novelty, newness; creativity, originality, ingenuity, inspiration, inventiveness; informala shake up "no appliance manufacturer can survive without an ongoing commitment to innovation"

   • a new method, idea, product, etc.

     plural noun: innovations

     
     

     "technological innovations designed to save energy"

Although Project Management is a fairly mature discipline, it can be made better.  Case in point, in 2013 PMI.org, released the 5th edition of the PMBOK.

When I achieved my PMP in 2001, there were 9 knowledge areas.  Today a new knowledge area called, "Project Stakeholder Management" has been added.  Along with  a stakeholder analysis.  They have added how Projects fit in the overall corporate picture from vision through execution.

So, is there room for more innovation?  Not only because there have been 5 editions of the PMBOK, do we know there shall be more innovations.

A portion of of my PM methodology innovations come from following the Project Closure process.  While my projects are successful, I always find things that can be done better.  It is though this process, that I find new methods that are not covered in the PMBOK.

Come to think of it.  There are a number of practices, that the PMBOK does NOT tell you.   Thus the topic for my next blog  "What the PMBOK Doesn't Tell You"

What do you think?  What is missing from the PMBOK?  Please share your thoughts on this.
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Armada Business Consulting, Inc.

Need help getting from strategy to execution?  I can help.  For more information contact Trish at trish_sutter@thegoodprojectmanager.com.