Solutions sought – Solutions provided: Project Challenge March 2009

By William Franklin, Client Relations Director at Maven Training.

Two days in Birmingham NEC with close to 1000 delegates attending and we came away with a clear picture of the state of the UK project & programme management world. Simply put, individuals are seeking qualifications to evidence their existing skills set through accredited examinations such as PRINCE2®, MSP™, M_o_R® or PMP®, while organisations are looking for support in structuring their project and programme environment. Both groups are feeling the pressure of the current economic environment but also both groups found solutions through discussions with Maven Training.

As part of the event, Melanie Franklin, CEO of Maven Training, gave a talk on the importance of Interpersonal Skills for Project Managers. This 45-minute talk exceeded not only our expectations but also that of the organisers. The 110 seats were filled well before the start time and a further 60 delegates gathered in any space they could find to listen to what is being described as the 4th Dimension of Project Management (the other three being:-
- i) Application of Best Practice methodologies
- ii) specialist industry skills
- iii) technical project management skills).

Without going into depth as this subject is covered in Melanie’s Darwin blog, the 170 delegates greeted the talk with enthusiasm as while some of the subjects made uncomfortable listening, they all hit home and gave a route map to follow when returning to the office. To those reading this blog, thank you for your participation – and watch this space for our one-day Interpersonal Skills course. If you are interested in finding out when Melanie is speaking again, just send an email to info@maventraining.co.uk.

Returning to solutions, our corporate enquiries focused on how to structure internal systems and procedures to ensure maximum impact using restricted capital. Use of Programme Offices and the new P3O qualification was high on the agenda as was development of bespoke 1-day events enabling whole organisations to gain access to a common approach. Unsurprisingly, most enquiries were driven by the mid-senior level management and not the Board but with downward pressure on budgets and increased expectations on delivery, organisations have to operate as a single unit if they are to succeed. We have many conversations to be followed up over the coming weeks but if we have not called you, feel free to chase us.

As a thank you to those delegates that visited our stand, we are offering special discounts on a wide range of our open courses and bespoke programmes. Just make sure you that when you call us you mention the fact that you visited our stand last week. On a final note, we will be exhibiting at the next Project Challenge, which will be held in London on 30th September 2009. We look forward to seeing you there!