With so many projects now being conducted on a global scale by international organisations involving diverse teams working in different locations and across different countries it would be naïve to expect the project to be problem-free and run smoothly at all times. With individuals involved from a variety of cultural backgrounds and with inherent language barriers such global projects are bound to run into difficulties at some stage. In some projects cultural differences can cause continual issues throughout the life-cycle of the project.
Even where teams are employed by the same international organisation with the same corporate culture, the local cultural differences at a personal level will impact the progress of the project.
Global projects can be, and are, successful because they use the most appropriate skills that are available in the most cost-effective way. But it is important to be aware of the areas that are likely to cause problems over and above the typical problems encountered in all projects if you are planning a global project, or are already working on one. Actively manage these problem areas and your project will be successful.
1. Different Locations & Time Zones
Project team members working in the same location can quickly resolve small issues before they become big problems because they can easily talk in person and do not have to rely too heavily on emails and electronic discussion boards or forums. They are all in the workplace at the same time and do not have to schedule conversations but can have an impromptu discussion when needed. But if your team is not co-located then make sure there is at least a 2 hour period every working day when all team members can be reached bu phone or email. Depending on the relevant time zones this could mean that one team must alter their typical working hours by starting earlier, or finishing later, than usual. This simple change can be a key factor in preventing problems with many areas of a project.
2. Cultural Differences
Few of us really understand a different culture and their different attitudes to work. Meritocratic working environments do not exist in every country so attitudes to senior management, handling of problems and quality of work can be completely different. No amount of careful wording of contracts can mitigate entrenched cultural values. Recognise that this is a problem that needs to be solved from both sides coming together and not from just one side of the cultural divide changing. We can all learn something from different working practises and attitudes so try and avoid problems by ensuring all parties state and document their expectations of each other.
3. Language Barriers
In most global projects the key individuals communicating key messages regarding the project will be doing so in the same language. But that language is unlikely to be the mother tongue of all those involved and this can lead to misunderstandings. Verbal and written communications are both areas that can cause misunderstanding and a failure to grasp important details. Native speakers should use clear, simple language when communicating with others for whom the language is a second language.
4. Motivating The Teams
A global project manager always needs to issue feedback to teams on the style and quality of their work. Any dis-satisfaction with the work must be voiced early on so that expectations are clear and the required standard can be reached over time. It is essential that the global project manager understands what motivates each team and its members and how to offer constructive criticism aimed at improving work rather than just outright criticism. Speaking honestly and openly with team members early on will reveal different causes of motivation and, as the project progresses do not forget that one of the most effective ways of motivating people is to simply thank them for the work they have done.
5. Reporting
It is important not only that work is carried out to a satisfactory (or, indeed, better than satisfactory) level but also that work progress and status is clearly and accurately reported. Reporting requirements are likely to vary from local to global level but it is essential that all reports actually provide the information required by the person(s) for whom the report is intended.
It is often only through experience that a project manager will develop the understanding and capabilities to handle the specific challenges of global project management.
-------------------------------------------
The author is a certified Project Manager and believes all PM professionals should keep their skills up-to-date with the latest project management courses. She also writes a Project Management Blog.