Project Failure Files: Automate Nothing
In Episode 34 of the Project Failure Files weekly webcast, our focus was “The Value of Automation to Enhance Efficiency and Accuracy,” in which Sharon and I explored the role of automation in managing projects, highlighting its ability to offload repetitive tasks, enhance consistency, and improve decision-making through predictive analytics. Automation in project management is a key driver of efficiency and accuracy, enabling teams to streamline workflows, reduce human error, and optimize resource allocation. The discussion also touched on how automation can facilitate faster approvals, better reporting, and AI-driven scheduling optimization while acknowledging that human oversight remains essential for strategic decision-making and ensuring project goals align with business needs.
While automation offers clear advantages, implementing it without disrupting existing workflows requires careful planning and evaluation. The episode covered best practices for identifying automation opportunities, such as focusing on rule-based and repetitive tasks, leveraging automation for data management, and integrating tools that enhance collaboration. Real-world examples illustrate both the benefits and challenges of automation, emphasizing that poorly executed automation can lead to inefficiencies and resistance from teams, highlighting the need for a gradual, well-structured approach.
The conversation concluded with a focus on striking the right balance between automation and human oversight. While automation improves efficiency and reduces workload, it should complement—not replace—human judgment in project management. Encouraging a hybrid approach, where automation handles routine tasks while humans focus on strategic initiatives, is key to maximizing its benefits. The episode urges project managers to assess automation potential thoughtfully and ensure their teams are equipped to adapt, ultimately enabling smarter, more efficient project execution.
Enjoy the episode!
Be sure to tune in next Monday, February 10th at 9am Pacific for Episode 35 of our weekly series as Sharon and I discuss “When Everyone’s in Charge.“ Hope you can join us on LinkedIn or YouTube.
