Focus

The purpose of our article is to help project managers better understand cultural processes, identify culture types, and develop ways for recognizing, changing, and adapting to their own organizations and that of their clients. Such knowledge can help project managers become more effective.

Unlike many other types of managers, project managers often must deal with several different cultures. A project manager may have to interact with 1) the parent of a “host” organization, 2) subcultures in various departments (e.g., marketing and research and development), 3) external client groups, and 4) her own project team. Thus, awareness of culture helps project managers “read” as well as “speak” the language of the surrounding culture. This communication skill helps them develop plans, strategies, and visions that are more likely to be understood and accepted. Equally important, awareness helps managers bypass practices that violate the norms and values a culture prizes; e.g., manufacturing often values a hierarchical orientation. Finally, understanding culture can enable project managers to develop and manage their teams more effectively. Such knowledge is particularly important when project teams face indifference, hostility, or pressure about the team’s mission.