Dr Karen Thompson

Re-wiring project management for the next 50 years

There are lessons we can learn from a critical examination of project management over the last 50 years that will help the project profession deliver projects that, not just minimise harm, but really make things better for people, planet, and prosperity.

This session will begin by identifying challenges to the way project management is traditionally wired and why “re-wiring” is required for the future. Key characteristics of re-wiring will be explored using examples from the APM’s “50 projects for a better future” to illustrate how ideas from sustainability, systems thinking, and responsible project management can be used to improve project outcomes. New competencies required by project professionals will be highlighted. Participants will then be invited to consider their own practices and how they might adapt to ensure their projects generate environmental, social and economic benefits as we look ahead to the next 50 years.

About Karen

Co-founder and director of Responsible Project Management, Karen is an innovative educator and researcher working at the intersection of project management and sustainable development.  She holds fellowships at The Schumacher Institute, the Association for Project Management and Advance HE, is a member of the Adjunct Faculty at the University of Southampton, an Expert in Project Management at the University of Vavuniya, Sri Lanka, and a member of the Project Management Institute’s Curriculum Review Committee.  Previously a Senior Academic at Bournemouth University Business School, her roles included Acting Departmental Head, Head of Education & Professional Practice, and Programme Leader for the world’s first MSc Organisational Project Management.  She has been a judge for ENACTUS and East London Community Heroes Awards.  Her work has won awards for teaching excellence (PMI UK), research impact (APM), innovation in project management (PMI, UK) and project management for social good (PMI, UK).