A Nod to Tradition in a Tech-Driven World

Introduction:

In the fast-paced, technology-driven realm of project management, there's a certain charm in revisiting the "old school" lifestyle of a professional project manager. While modern tools and methodologies have transformed the landscape, the time-tested practices and principles of the past still hold valuable lessons. In this blog post, we'll explore the distinctive characteristics that define the old school lifestyle of a seasoned project manager.

1. The Art of Handwritten Gantt Charts:

In the days before digital project management tools, project managers relied on the artistry of hand-drawn Gantt charts. Each line meticulously crafted on paper, these charts were a visual representation of project timelines and dependencies. The process required patience and precision, fostering a deep understanding of the project's intricacies.

2. Face-to-Face Communication:

Old school project managers were masters of face-to-face communication. Meetings were conducted in person, allowing for nuanced discussions, immediate problem-solving, and a personal connection with team members. While virtual communication has its merits, there's a unique richness in the exchanges that happen in the same physical space.

3. The Power of Experience and Intuition:

Before the era of data analytics and predictive modeling, project managers relied on experience and intuition. Decisions were often made based on a deep understanding of the industry, the team, and the project's unique challenges. This reliance on seasoned judgment added a human touch to project management.

4. Documenting Everything:

Old school project managers were meticulous documentarians. Every decision, risk, and milestone was documented with care. While digital tools offer convenience, there's a certain reliability in a well-organized file cabinet filled with project documentation that stands as a testament to the project's history.

5. Embracing Change with Agility:

The old school project manager was, in essence, an agile practitioner. Flexibility and adaptability were ingrained in their approach. When unexpected challenges arose, these professionals navigated changes with resilience, drawing upon a wealth of experience to guide the team through uncertain waters.

6. Mentorship and Knowledge Transfer:

Old school project managers were mentors, passing down their knowledge to the next generation. The emphasis on mentorship ensured that valuable insights were not lost in the transition between projects or team members.

Conclusion:

While the modern project manager benefits from cutting-edge tools and methodologies, there's undeniable wisdom in the old school lifestyle of their predecessors. The handcrafted Gantt charts, the personal touch of face-to-face communication, the reliance on experience and intuition – these are aspects that have left an indelible mark on the profession. As we navigate the dynamic world of project management, let's take a moment to appreciate and integrate the timeless practices of the old school project manager into our tech-driven present.