Innovation in Project Control

Most companies struggle to balance innovation with control. But Robert Simons’ Levers of Control model gives managers a robust framework to do both — without compromise. ☑ Beliefs Systems ↳ These inspire employees with shared purpose. ↳ Mission statements, credos, and value declarations guide behaviour and motivate discretionary effort. ↳ Leaders must consistently reinforce beliefs to align teams with strategic goals. ☑ Boundary Systems ↳ These set the “do not cross” lines. ↳ Clear rules, codes of conduct, and compliance guidelines reduce risk. ↳ They allow freedom within constraints — creativity with guardrails. ☑ Diagnostic Control Systems ↳ The classic performance tools: KPIs, budgets, dashboards. ↳ Used to track progress and course-correct when needed. ↳ Efficient for stable environments where outcomes are measurable. ☑ Interactive Control Systems ↳ These are built for uncertainty and strategic adaptation. ↳ Managers engage teams in problem-solving, testing assumptions, and discovering new opportunities. ↳ Dialogue over directives. Curiosity over control. Here’s why this model matters: ↳It doesn’t pit control against innovation — it shows how to enable both. ↳It equips managers to lead proactively, not just reactively. ↳It allows organisations to scale without losing flexibility and creativity. If you're leading a team or shaping strategy, this framework is worth bookmarking. P.S. If you like content like this, please follow me.

𝑫𝒊𝒈𝒊𝒕𝒂𝒍 𝑻𝒘𝒊𝒏𝒔 𝑭𝒐𝒓 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒋𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝑴𝒂𝒏𝒂𝒈𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 This article explores the underutilized potential of Digital Twins (DTs) beyond their predominant application in facility management, focusing on their promising role in enhancing efficiency across various phases of construction projects. Enabling smooth data transfer between virtual and physical environments, DTs hold considerable potential for enhancing project planning and control, safety and quality management, in addition to procurement and resource management through the construction stage. Positioned at the peak of inflated expectations in the innovation hype cycle, a comprehensive review of the DT concept is required to provide valuable insights for both practitioners and academicians. Furthermore, the study employs a PRISMA based systematic literature review methodology to analyse existing research and identify gaps in the literature. This paper uses the PMI-PMBOK framework to delineate potential applications of DTs in Construction Project Management (DT-CPM) across different categories. The key findings of the study include a comprehensive overview of the potential applications of DT-CPM, along with an exploration of current challenges and future research directions. This study benefits practitioners by providing insights into leveraging DTs for improved project management practices and academicians by identifying areas for further research and exploration within the DT domain. https://lnkd.in/dafbTR3B #Sawy_Says

Traditional project management is also getting a makeover with AI. Here's what I learnt with Generative AI overview for project managers: Goodbye, Tedious Tasks: AI automates repetitive tasks like scheduling meetings, generating reports, and risk assessments. This frees up project managers to focus on higher-level strategy and problem-solving. Hello, Predictive Power: AI analyzes historical project data to predict risks, resource needs, and potential bottlenecks before they derail your project. Imagine a roadmap that highlights roadblocks before you hit them! Data-Driven Decisions: AI empowers fact-based choices. It analyzes vast amounts of project data to identify trends and patterns, informing better resource allocation, team composition, and overall project direction. Smarter Collaboration: AI translation tools and virtual assistants bridge communication gaps in multicultural teams. Real-time project dashboards keep everyone on the same page, fostering better collaboration and transparency. The Rise of the Agile AI Assistant: Imagine a virtual assistant that learns your project preferences and suggests improvements to your Agile workflow. AI can even automate some Agile ceremonies, freeing up time for human interaction and innovation. This AI revolution isn't about replacing project managers, but rather making them cyborg project leaders.

The Enduring Complexity of ERP Implementation In the dynamic world of enterprise technology, the gap between business needs and the solutions that IT architecture provides has long been a persistent challenge. This problem is particularly pronounced in the domain of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, where complexity often stems from technological limitations inherited from the previous century. Recent discussions, including a thought-provoking image shared on LinkedIn, suggest that we may be on the cusp of a new era in ERP solutions. Looking back on my 45 years of experience, I believe I can contribute to this exciting evolution. My approach has always been rooted in disruptive innovation and I have consistently sought to transcend the limitations of traditional “systems of record” such as ERP. Decoupling and Modernization: A Solution to the Business-IT Divide This approach of decoupling project control and leveraging modern technologies like #microservices, IaaS, and AI addresses the concerns raised by David Hilcher regarding the gap between business and solutions architecture. By separating project-specific functionalities and data from the monolithic ERP, the system becomes more agile and adaptable to the unique needs of individual projects. This allows for a more focused and efficient project management process, where business requirements drive the development and deployment of tailored solutions. Furthermore, this approach tackles the limitations of traditional #ERP systems highlighted in the LinkedIn graphic. By moving away from the rigid, monolithic architecture of the past and embracing a more modular and flexible approach, we can overcome the technological constraints of the last century. The use of cloud-based platforms like #Google #IaaS enables scalability and access to a wide range of modern services, including #AI and machine learning, which can be integrated into project workflows to provide valuable insights and optimize decision-making. In essence, this decoupled approach, combined with the power of cloud computing and AI, offers a solution to bridge the gap between business and IT. It enables organizations to develop and deploy tailored solutions that meet specific business needs, while also overcoming the limitations of legacy ERP systems and paving the way for a new era of innovation and efficiency. https://lnkd.in/e3juicPy Judith O. Paul Byrne Dragon ERP Tom Pierce Wayne Holtham Yves De Hondt Maryh DeJesus MBA, CBA, CAPM, DASSM, CLSSBB Michael Zhang Bernie Kelly Eric Kimberling Paul Coetser Chris Santa Ana, PMP Shaurin Shah David Hilcher Dan Aldridge, ERP Software Expert Kyler Cheatham Frank Albrecht Venkadesh S. Mark Van Kampen jon mattei Urban Nilsson

How to make innovation projects succeed in the GCC Many companies design Innovation "tunnels" instead of Innovation funnels - and that’s holding them back. In an Innovation Tunnel, teams are set up to keep going until they succeed. High initial investments and incentives to persist make it hard to kill projects, leading to safe choices and wasted resources. The Fix? Build an Innovation Funnel: • 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝘀𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗹: Let multiple teams explore strategic ideas with minimal resources. • 𝗘𝘃𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲-𝗯𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴: Increase resources only as proof accumulates. • 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗽 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘀 𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗹𝘆 if they lack traction, freeing resources for the best ideas. • 𝗕𝗲 𝗱𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗱-𝗱𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗻, to avoid serving the market with what is not requested. It’s not about spending more—it’s about using smart governance to channel resources to the most promising ideas. In an Innovation funnel, you start and stop ideas easily, doubling down only on those with real potential.

Project Controls Trends to Watch in 2025: What's Shaping the Industry? The start of a new year always brings opportunities to reflect on where we’re headed—and the Project Controls field is no exception. As industries continue to evolve, so do the tools, processes, and priorities shaping how we manage projects. Whether you’re driving large-scale initiatives or building the teams that power them, here are some key trends to watch in 2025: 1. Increased Focus on AI and Automation AI-driven tools are becoming game-changers in scheduling, cost estimation, and risk management. Tools like machine learning algorithms are enhancing forecasting accuracy and allowing teams to focus on strategic decision-making rather than repetitive tasks. 2. Data-Driven Decision Making Big data is no longer a buzzword—it’s a necessity. The demand for professionals skilled in analytics and reporting tools like Power BI, Tableau, and advanced P6 modules is skyrocketing. Teams need insights, not just data. 3. Sustainability in Project Execution With ESG considerations becoming a priority, companies are aligning their project strategies with sustainability goals. Project Controllers are now key players in tracking metrics tied to carbon footprints and resource efficiency. 4. Hybrid Work and Global Teams The rise of remote and hybrid work means collaboration tools like Primavera Cloud and other SaaS platforms are essential. Teams are more global than ever, and the ability to integrate seamlessly across time zones is crucial. What Does This Mean for You? If you’re a hiring manager, now is the time to prioritize flexibility and upskilling within your teams. For job seekers, aligning your skills with these trends can set you apart. I’d love to hear your thoughts—what trends are you seeing in the Project Controls space this year? Are you or your team embracing any of these shifts?

Innovation in Action: Drone Technology on Construction Projects I had the opportunity to launch a construction project drone program that completely redefined how we approach safety, quality, and progress monitoring. The results were dynamic and added tremendous value across the board: -Sustainability – Real-time global sharing of project data, reducing carbon footprint. -Versatility – Effective for both indoor and outdoor use. -Perspective – A true bird’s-eye view that enhances awareness. -Safety – Keeps personnel at a safe distance during high-risk activities like blasting, crane operations, excavations, and electrical crossover work. -Cost Savings – Reduced travel expenses, minimized equipment needs, and provided clear visual progress updates. -Efficiency – Covered large areas in a fraction of the time. Beyond these advantages, drones provided an additional layer of protection and insight for: -Safety (enhanced zoom capabilities) -Quality control -Progress tracking -Incident response and documentation This program demonstrated how technology can transform construction by driving sustainability, improving safety, and creating measurable savings, while giving teams the ability to see and manage projects like never before. #ConstructionInnovation #DroneTechnology #SafetyLeadership #MicrosoftProjects #EHS #DigitalTransformation

I recently caught up with someone who works in innovation, and we dove deep into what separates projects that soar from those that crash and burn. Two patterns kept emerging from every success story: Dedicated Innovation Leadership Successful innovation projects consistently have a committed individual responsible for driving, leading, and tracking progress. Not a committee. Not a part-time role. One person who wakes up thinking about it and goes to bed planning the next move. Phased Strategic Execution The most impactful projects are structured into clear, incremental phases. Each with well-defined goals and a strategic "first win" that justifies continued investment and unlocks the next stage. The projects that fail? They try to boil the ocean. No clear owner. No phases. Just a massive transformation promise that dies in PowerPoint. But here's what really matters... In aerospace, where a single project can span years and millions, these two factors aren't nice-to-haves. They're the difference between innovation theater and actual transformation. Your move: Look at your innovation initiatives. Do they have a dedicated person who is responsible for the outcome? Is there a clear first win within 90 days? What patterns have you seen separate successful innovation projects from the rest? #Innovation #Aerospace #Leadership #ProjectManagement #Manufacturing

🏗️ Controlling & Monitoring Construction Projects: The Real Game Changer In today’s project landscape, effective project control and monitoring are essential to avoid delays and budget overruns. The dashboards I rely on merge Planned Value (PV), Earned Value (EV), and Actual Cost (AC) into clear visuals—helping drive accountability and data-driven decisions. One of my favorite setups combines gauge visuals for SPI and CPI, S-curves for trend tracking, and interactive Power BI reports for stakeholder transparency. The attached dashboard is a snapshot of these insights in action. ✅ Accurate planning ✅ Transparent monitoring ✅ Proactive risk mitigation ✅ Real-time stakeholder reporting I’d love to hear from you: What tools or visualization techniques are you using for project control? Many thanks to Elvira S. for sharing this valuable interactive report. Full credit goes to her. #ConstructionManagement #ProjectControls #EVM #SPI #CPI #PowerBI #PrimaveraP6 #ConstructionDashboards #Elvira

🔔  Project Control vs Optimisation 🔔 Project Control Expo let me think about why #ProjectControl lacks #optimisation solutions. Between the two approaches focused on optimisation or control, #projects often prefer control, negatively impacting delivery. There are a few reasons why focusing on control could be the preference: 📌 Project control benefits from simplification and data defragmentation 📌 Project controllers are awarded for forecast accuracy, not better outcomes 📌 It is hard to penalise someone for none optimise plan but easy for lack of control 💡 As exists today, project control kills optimisation. The bigger the project is, the more likely the focus on control to be. 💢  Control Imposes rigidity Control mechanisms, such as rules, micromanagement, or prescriptive processes, can constrain a system’s ability to adapt or improve. Optimisation, on the other hand, requires experimentation, exploration, and the ability to adjust dynamically, which strict control can stifle. 💢  Control prioritises predictability over adaptability Control systems are designed to ensure consistency and reduce variation. While this is valuable in some contexts, it can prevent innovation or experimentation, which are necessary for finding optimal solutions. Optimisation thrives in environments where risk-taking and change are encouraged. 💢  Control focuses on local efficiency, not overall optimisation Over-controlling specific parts of a system can lead to suboptimal overall performance. Focusing on one project parameter or part of project may hurt the project as a whole. Optimisation requires a holistic view and sometimes allowing inefficiencies in certain areas to improve the overall system. 💢 Control can be resource-intensive Excessive control often requires significant time, energy, and resources to monitor and enforce. This can divert resources away from activities that drive optimisation, such as analysing performance data or experimenting with improvements. 💢 Control increases defragmentation Simplification and defragmentation help project control teams manage project components but make it hard, or even impossible, to identify optimal solutions and simulate time-cost balancing decisions. 🎯 Finding a balance While control ensures stability, it must be balanced with flexibility to foster optimisation. 💡 To gain better outcomes, project delivery teams must focus on continuous optimisation. At the same time, only with mature control of CRITICAL parts, the optimised solution could be achievable. It is not sufficient to identify an optimised sequence of work and critical resources. It is also necessary that the whole team is aware of it and helps critical work to be performed without interruptions. The rest project can use adaptive control setting boundaries but allowing freedom within them. #projectengineer #planning