Paper and Presentation: Successful Project Management in a Low Authority Environment
Abstract: A frequent complaint by project managers is that they do not have the “authority” to do their job. Project managers are expected to elicit top performance from all members of the project team, often in an environment of high responsibility and low authority, coupled with the use of borrowed resources in a matrix organizational structure. This presentation will strengthen your ability to effectively work with project teams and other stakeholders to achieve project success without formal authority. This talk will explore the difference between a leader and manager, the role of emotional intelligence, and how personality styles impact the application of leadership and management. This presentation will explain the sources of power available to all project managers, along with tips for getting results with limited authority. Specific project situations will be examined, along with suggested methods for obtaining the necessary results in a low authority environment. Finally, this talk will discuss the role of conflict management, and how to make it work for you in an environment of low authority.
PMI Talent Triangle: Leadership
Biography: Joe Lukas has been involved in project management for over 35 years. His work experience spans engineering, manufacturing, construction, project controls, estimating, contracting and project, program and portfolio management. His projects experience includes information systems, product development, construction and manufacturing. Joe joined PMI in 1986 and has held many Chapter Board positions in Rochester, NY including two terms as President. He is a registered Professional Engineer, Project Management Professional, Certified Scrum Master and Certified Cost Professional. Joe has over 50 published articles on project management topics, and is a frequent guest speaker for companies and organizations across the country. Joe teaches and consults on project management topics and interpersonal skills.
