Understanding the Project Environment

It is the responsibility of the project manager to understand the project environment. All projects operate within a specific environment, or blend of environments. In addition to understanding the organizational structure, a project manager needs to understand the effects other outside forces play in managing projects. The most obvious external factors for projects are

• Cultural and social environment The team needs to understand differences among team members such as language and customs. Any characteristics that set team members apart are potential areas for conflict.

• International and political environment Team members might be from different countries or political systems. As with cultural differences, such differences among team members can cause conflict. These differences can also result in regulatory confusion due to different legal systems in place.

• Physical environment Team members might not be physically located in the same place. Physical separation requires modified strategies for communication. Time zones and communication media support can be issues when communicating with separate team members.