BY MARK BARNETT, Weston College Group Subject Area Manager for Project Management
The headlines and social media are awash with the disruptive nature and possible implication of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the world of project management is no exception. There are some big headline figures on what may happen over the coming years.
According to MarketsandMarkets, the worldwide use of AI in the project management market will expand. Experts predict its surge from £2 billion in 2023 to £4.5 billion by 2028. Couple this with the Association for Project Management (APM) Golden Thread 2024 report, which forecasts 25 million additional project professionals will be needed globally by 2030, we are going to see a significant change in mindsets over the coming years in project management.
What is AI?
There are numerous definitions and explanations of AI, regardless of the definition it is the application that will drive the decision-making process to adopt and integrate AI into an organisations project management process. With the two most common application being in tasks process automation and cognitive insights. Using machine learning intelligent algorithms to detect patterns, analyse data, provide data modelling and predict behaviour. AI is considered a “game changer” for risk management, with organisations gaining competitive advantage and increased performance.
Research in to AI and Project Management
In a recent paper by Barcaui et al, 2023 “Who is better in project planning? Generative artificial intelligence or project managers?”, the research concluded that whilst AI has immense potential to augment project planning, the pivotal role of the project manager, associated roles and expertise remains undeniable. It is the integration of both AI and human capabilities that ensures efficient and comprehensive project plans. Most importantly the research recognises that it is the organisations themselves, that need to harness this synergy for effective project management.
PWC “A virtual Partnership” looked at AI’s job-displacement effect into three waves: algorithmic (until the early 2020s), augmentation (to the late 2020s) and autonomy (to the mid-2030s). By 2030, it is predicted that 80% of the work of today’s project management discipline will be eliminated as AI takes on traditional project management functions such as data collection, tracking and reporting. With the role of the project manager being able to integrate AI capabilities into new practices.
Upskilling of staff
There is clearly a need for upskilling the existing and future workforce in project management. Without a doubt, AI will change how the role or project managers and the practices of organisations going forward. The adoption and implementation of data analysis and AI into projects is currently a competitive advantage, however, given the speed in the evolution of technology, it may soon become a competitive necessity. To put this in perspective the first website launched at CERN in 1991, 33 years later, there are an estimated 1.1 billion websites worldwide with all organisations adopting a form of online presence to be competitive.
Next steps
University Centre Weston, has recognised and responded to this increasing demand for new skills and knowledge through the introduction of project management training programmes and apprenticeships.
As an approved training provider with the Association of Project Management (APM) we offer courses such as: Project Management Fundamentals (PFQ), recognised as a starting point for your developing a career in project management and gaining an understanding of the principles of the profession. Moving forward to the Project Management Qualification (PMQ), building your journey by developing a broad level of project management knowledge.
For those organisations looking for an apprenticeship pathway, we offer the Level 4 Associate Project Manager apprenticeship, an apprenticeship underpinned by a robust curriculum, with the opportunity to progress to the Degree apprenticeship subject to approval.
The Project Manager BSc(Hons) degree apprenticeship, offers a comprehensive degree, including the PMQ. The apprenticeship is over 4 years, one day a week, including End Point Assessment (EPA). It includes a comprehensive suite of modules including the use of data in projects, underpinned by a professional practice portfolio.
The delivery of these programmes has responded to the emerging world of project management practice and are offered, in the classroom, online or hybrid.
Speak To Us…
Investing in training and apprenticeships is a strategic move that delivers long-term benefits for businesses. By securing new talent, upskilling existing employees, fostering a culture of learning, reducing recruitment costs, and making the most of government funding, you position your business for sustained success. We are committed to supporting businesses in unlocking their potential through our comprehensive project management programmes.
Discover how these programmes can transform your business.
For apprenticeship, PFQ or PMQcontact apprenticeships@weston.ac.uk or call on 01934 411594.
Find out more about the Level 4 Associate Project Manager Apprenticeship and the Project Manager BSc (Hons) degree apprenticeship by clicking the links!
