The Peril of Shortcuts: Why Standards, Stakeholder Analysis, and Communication Matter

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The article “The Hidden Costs and Dangers of the Shortcut” is a gripping story on the need of adhering to standards, thoroughly analyzing stakeholder impacts, and communicating effectively throughout project management (LaBrosse, 2010). This discussion investigates the idea that better adherence to standards, a comprehensive examination of stakeholder consequences, and improved communication may have averted the disastrous conclusion mentioned in the article. It also investigates whether innovation and standard conformance are incompatible in the context of project management.

Do you agree or disagree that a better adherence to the standards, an analysis of the impacts to the stakeholders and a stronger communication to the parties involved would have avoided the issue described?

The disaster presented in the essay, in which the dam fails owing to a faulty spillway, emphasizes the importance of careful adherence to project management standards. In the scenario, the property owner avoids certain regulatory processes in order to cut money, resulting in a calamity. Standards, particularly those obtained through certifications such as Project Management Professional (PMP), provide a foundation for ensuring safety, quality, and compliance (Project Management Institute, 2021). These rules are intended to reduce risks and prevent such oversights. Therefore, I agree that strict adherence to established norms would have likely avoided the unpleasant circumstances reported.

Do you agree that innovative people cannot be also people that understand, apply and adhere to standards? Why or why not?

I disagree with the idea that innovation and adherence to standards are mutually exclusive. Here are a few reasons why:

• Standards give a foundation for innovation, allowing it to flourish safely and efficiently. They guarantee that novel processes fulfill the minimum standards for safety, quality, and efficiency. Understanding these frameworks allows inventive individuals to push limits while maintaining the underlying principles that promote stability and reliability (Project Management Institute, 2021).
• Knowing and understanding norms and standards helps boost creativity. Innovators who understand the restrictions and criteria set by standards might devise inventive solutions within those constraints. This frequently results in more lasting and effective innovations since they are based on strong, well-understood concepts (Project Management Institute, 2021).
• Standards frequently include lessons learned from previous projects and industry best practices. Innovators who follow these principles are better able to predict and reduce hazards. This risk management is critical, especially in projects involving major technical improvements or modifications to current systems (Project Management Institute, 2021).
• Adherence to standards implies that innovations may be more readily integrated into existing systems and processes, hence increasing their sustainability. Innovators who neglect norms may build solutions that are difficult to sustain or introduce new hazards, as demonstrated by the tragedy in the article.
• Standards frequently incorporate ethical concerns and the larger implications of activities on diverse stakeholders (Project Management Institute, 2021). Innovators who understand and follow these criteria are more likely to examine the broader ramifications of their decisions, resulting in more ethically responsible technologies.

Within the story described in the article, which of the fundamental knowledge areas for managing projects (as per the PMBoK categorization) and which of the project life cycle phases do you see as crucial?

Risk management and stakeholder management are essential knowledge areas related to the scenario presented in the paper. These categories are critical because they have a direct influence on identifying and managing possible risks, as well as determining how actions affect all stakeholders (LaBrosse, 2010). In this case, the planning and execution stages are critical components of the project life cycle. Proper planning would include risk assessment and stakeholder analysis, while thorough execution would assure adherence to the set plans and standards.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the paper underlines the need of adhering to project management standards. By following to standards, considering stakeholder implications, and maintaining open communication, the project manager may have averted the catastrophic repercussions of the shortcut. Innovative thought flourishes in an environment that values safety and ethics. A project manager with the knowledge and abilities described in the PMBOK can assure project success while reducing risks.

References

LaBrosse, M. (2010, February 5). The Hidden Costs and Dangers of The Shortcut. Project Smart. https://www.projectsmart.co.uk/case-studies/the-hidden-costs-and-dangers-of-the-shortcut.php

Project Management Institute. (2021). A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide) (Seventh Edition). Newtown Square, PA: Project Management Institute.

Note:
This article is written based on University of The People Managing Project and Program (BUS 5611) written assignment by Fristy Tania Sato in April 2024