Systems Thinking

In project management, it is important to adopt a systems thinking approach in order to effectively:

• Recognize the dynamic circumstances within and surrounding the project
• Evaluate the various subsystems and timing elements within the project
• Respond to changes in internal and external conditions

This means considering how all the parts of a project interact with each other and with external systems.

A project can be thought of as:

• A complex entity that exists in dynamic circumstances
• A system in and of itself
• Part of larger systems like programs and portfolios (known as a system of systems)

These interconnected structures are known as a system of systems, and it is important for project teams to balance inside/out and outside/in perspectives to support alignment across the system of systems.

In addition to considering the various subsystems within a project, it is important for project teams to:

• Balance inside/out and outside/in perspectives to support alignment across the system of systems
• Think beyond the end of the project to the operational state of the project's deliverable
• Be responsive to changes in internal and external conditions, possibly involving a change control protocol and obtaining approvals from external entities

Timing the elements of systems is imporant, such as what the project delivers or enables when. For example, if project deliverables are released incrementally, each increment expands the cumulative outcomes or capabilities of previous versions. It is important for project teams to think beyond the end of the project to the operational state of the project's deliverable, so that intended outcomes are realized.

In addition to considering the technical aspects of a project, it is also important for project teams to:

• Recognize and respond to the diverse backgrounds and cultures of team members
• Foster a cohesive team culture by establishing a common vision, language, and toolset

As projects unfold, internal and external conditions are continuously changing, and it is important for project teams to be responsive to these changes in order to keep the project in agreement with relevant stakeholders. This may involve implementing a change control protocol and obtaining approvals from external entities such as service providers, regulators, financiers, and government authorities.

In addition to considering the technical aspects of a project, it's also important for project teams to recognize and respond to the diverse backgrounds and cultures of team members. By bringing together a diverse project team, valuable perspectives and ideas can be shared, but it's important to consider how to leverage those differences effectively in order to foster a cohesive team culture. This may involve establishing a common vision, language, and toolset that allows team members to work cohesively towards a common goal.

By applying systems thinking and being responsive to changes in internal and external conditions, project teams can positively impact project performance and achieve intended outcomes. By recognizing the complexity of a project as a system, and the various subsystems and timing elements within it, project teams can effectively navigate the dynamic circumstances surrounding a project and work towards a common goal.