We spoke with Grace Najjar, Regional MD of PMI MENA, who put the spotlight on PMI's vision and purpose in the world. She mentioned how the PMI offers globally recognized standards, certifications, online courses, thought leadership, tools, digital publications, and communities to help organizations and individuals enhance their project management capabilities and improve project outcomes.
Grace Najjar, Regional MD of PMI MENA
About PMI
PMI specializes in various industries and sectors, including construction, information technology, healthcare, financial services, and government, and provides support to project managers and organizations by providing resources such as training, certifications, and best practices to ensure customer satisfaction.
According to the Global Project Management Job Trends 2023 report, the construction sector is expected to grow by as much as 4% in the Middle East and North Africa, and the construction industry in Egypt is primed to grow at an annual rate of 10.6% through 2026. Additionally, countries in the Middle East and North Africa are investing heavily in infrastructure, tourism, and transportation megaprojects.
The report also shows that embedding sustainability into projects is becoming increasingly important for organizations and project managers. PMI recommends that project managers consider their projects' environmental, social, and economic impacts and work to minimize negative impacts while maximizing positive ones.
SUSTAINABILITY AND THE PMI
PMI has recognized the importance of sustainability and has taken a proactive approach to incorporate sustainability principles into its project management practices. PMI's approach to sustainability focuses on the triple bottom line, which considers the social, environmental, and economic impacts of a project. (if they can mention the ESG word)
PMI provides guidance on sustainability in project management through its Global Standard for Sustainable Project Management, which outlines a set of principles and practices that promote sustainable development. The standard emphasizes the importance of stakeholder engagement, environmental protection, and social responsibility in project management.
In addition to providing guidance on sustainability in project management, PMI also offers training and certification programs in sustainable project management. PMI's Sustainability Credential, for example, recognizes project managers who have demonstrated a commitment to sustainability principles and practices.
NOTE TO ENTREPRENEURS
Entrepreneurs should remember that when hiring their core teams, they must align with their work preferences and priorities. According to the report, having the option to work remotely is a huge incentive for the youngest generations in the global workforce. Additionally, 76% of millennials and 75% of Gen Zs would prefer a hybrid or remote work environment because it provides them with free time to focus on other priorities, helps them save money, allows them to see family more often, makes getting work done easier, and positively impacts their mental health.
PMI certification is highly valued across all sectors, and individuals with a PMI credential have demonstrated their knowledge and competence in project management. This enhances their career opportunities and gives employers confidence in their ability to manage projects successfully.
Furthermore, the PMI has contributed significantly to the advancement of the project management profession by conducting research, publishing academic papers, and offering training programs. The organization has developed a wealth of resources, including the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK), which provides a comprehensive guide to project management processes, tools, and techniques.
PMI IN ACTION, A CASE STUDY
Founded in 1992, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has played a crucial role in supporting the growth and development of Dubai as a global hub for business activity in the Middle East and Northern Africa. Over the years, DEWA has faced an increasingly complex challenge in providing essential water and electricity services to a rapidly expanding population that now exceeds 2 million people. As DEWA continued to initiate more projects, its leadership recognized that standard project management practices were not consistently applied across the organization. This lack of standardization led to decreased efficiencies, limited innovation, redundant data, and increased administrative burden on employees.
In response to these challenges, DEWA took a proactive approach to address the issue by implementing a greater number of Project Management Institute (PMI) certified professionals and adhering to the proven project, program, and portfolio management practices. By doing so, DEWA was able to reduce risks, cut costs, and improve success rates. This strategic move not only allowed DEWA to streamline its operations but also provided its employees with a clear framework for managing projects and programs efficiently, leading to increased productivity and innovation.
DEWA's efforts to adopt a more structured approach to project management has led to cost savings and operational efficiencies and enabled the organization to deliver better services to its customers. With a strong focus on project, program, and portfolio management, DEWA has been able to prioritize projects and initiatives that align with its strategic goals, while eliminating redundant and low-priority projects. This has not only resulted in cost savings but has also allowed DEWA to deliver services more efficiently and effectively.
How Can Entrepreneurs Stay Sustainable
Organizations need to earn the satisfaction and trust of project professionals. They can do this by providing support to project managers and organizations by providing resources such as training, certifications, and best practices to ensure project success and customer satisfaction.
Additionally, organizations need to consider their projects' environmental, social, and economic impacts and work to minimize negative impacts while maximizing positive ones.
By doing so, organizations can earn the trust and satisfaction of project professionals and create a better world for everyone.
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