Project management has always been a dynamic field, evolving alongside technological advancements and changing business landscapes. As we enter 2024, the project management landscape continues to evolve at a rapid pace.
Keeping up with these trends can help professionals and organisations aiming for project success over the next 12 months and beyond. So, to get ready for 2024, we will explore the top 10 project management trends to follow in 2024.
Ten trends for project management in 2024
1. The evolving role of project management
Project management has come a long way from its traditional roots. In 2024, it’s not just about following a plan but also adapting to changes, embracing innovation, and fostering collaboration. The role of a project manager has become more multifaceted, with an emphasis on adaptability and agility.
Business boost: Make your project management system more agile by deploying Agile as your chosen project environment. A
PRINCE2 Agile® Foundation and Practitioner course can certify project managers in Agile project management to help organisations and their projects be more adaptable, quick-thinking and efficient.
2. Agile and hybrid approaches
Agile methodologies continue to dominate project management. However, in 2024, we expect to see the rise of hybrid approaches that blend agile principles with more traditional project management techniques. This enables teams to combine flexibility with the structure needed for larger projects.
Business boost: The
APMG Agile Project Management course is a two-day virtual training accredited by the APM Group that helps candidates identify and utilise agile techniques in project situations and successfully configure projects into an agile setup for greater effectiveness.
3. Remote and distributed teams
The trend of remote and distributed teams is on the rise. With advancements in technology and communication tools, project teams are no longer confined to a single location. Managing teams across different time zones and geographies presents new challenges and opportunities for project managers.
Business boost: If you’re deploying large-scale operational change across remote and distributed teams, it can help to have the right structure and expertise in place to make changes run as smoothly as possible. Courses such as
Managing Successful Programmes can offer a deployable framework that is ready to use whenever there are large-scale transformational changes to make in the business.
4. AI and automation in project management
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation are transforming project management. AI-driven tools can assist with project planning, scheduling, and risk analysis. Automation streamlines repetitive tasks, allowing project managers to focus on strategic decision-making.
Business boost: Help your team prepare for greater use of AI with a
BCS Essentials in Artificial Intelligence course – a one-day intensive course to give your team an understanding of AI, machine learning, the terminology and the principles to help them implement AI in their projects in 2024.
5. Blockchain for project transparency
Blockchain technology is finding applications beyond cryptocurrencies. In project management, blockchain is being used to enhance transparency and accountability. It can secure project documentation, contracts, and transactions, reducing the risk of disputes and fraud.
Business boost: Managing risks and security are essential in project management. Ensure all bases are covered with
the APM Project Risk Management course to help identify, design and undertake project risk assessments to enhance security and reduce the risk of disputes.
6. Sustainability and green project management
Sustainability is no longer a buzzword; it’s a fundamental consideration in project management. Green project management practices are gaining prominence, focusing on reducing environmental impact and ensuring sustainable project outcomes.
Business boost: Is sustainability one of your business goals for 2024? Help make smarter, impactful decisions in project management with
APMG Better Business Cases that help enable effective business decisions, making it easier to build up strong business cases for change.
7. Cybersecurity in project management
With the increasing reliance on digital tools and data, cybersecurity is a critical concern. Project managers must prioritise data security to protect sensitive project information and ensure the integrity of project data.
Business boost: Having a certified
Cloud Security Professional can help ensure safe operations and compliance regarding cloud security infrastructure and cybersecurity. This could be ideal for IT project managers looking to specialise in security and cloud systems.
8. Data analytics for project insights
Data analytics and business intelligence tools are becoming integral to project management. They provide valuable insights into project performance, helping project managers make informed decisions and adapt to changing circumstances.
Business boost: Boost the understanding of data analytics across PM teams with a certificate in
BCS Business Architecture – a course to grow expertise in information management and drive value chain analysis.
9. Emotional intelligence in project leadership
Emotional intelligence (EQ) is gaining recognition as a vital leadership skill in project management. Effective project leaders understand the emotions and motivations of team members, fostering better collaboration, communication, and overall project success.
Business boost: Soft skills can be just as important as technical skills when it comes to building a thriving project management team in 2024.
10. Remote project management tools
Specialised tools for remote project management are essential in 2024. These tools facilitate communication, collaboration, and project tracking in virtual work environments. Popular project management software and collaboration platforms continue to evolve to meet the needs of remote teams.
Business boost: Popular and a highly sought-after qualification, PRINCE2 is now in its sixth edition, covering all must-have project management knowledge adapting to current and future working environments, such as virtual, remote and hybrid setups. Stay up to date with PRINCE2 with the
seventh edition practitioner course.
Boosting your project management in 2024
As we step into 2024, the project management landscape is characterised by adaptability, technology integration, and a growing emphasis on sustainability and collaboration.
To succeed in this dynamic environment, project managers and organisations can embrace these top 10 project management trends in 2024. These trends will not only lead to project success but also position teams and businesses for growth in an ever-evolving digital world.
