Trends in project management for 2016

1. Internet of Things and big data

Internet of Things (IoT) is one of the fastest growing sectors of the world's economy. It consists in interconnecting various devices and technologies using the Internet. As the number of such devices increase, so will the amount of data produced. By analyzing big data, companies can more easily detect project weaknesses and achieve greater efficiency. Project managers will be much more involved in data analyzing.

2. Mobility

More and more members of project teams do not work in the same place and this trend will continue, which will lead to a broader use of cloud-based project tools. Mobile applications workers will be able to access information anytime and anywhere. Because of this, they will have to improve their time management and remote communication skills.

3. PM certifications

Companies need to hire serious project managers who are fully capable to do their jobs. Since almost anybody from secretaries to cleaners can declare themselves project managers, the demand for certification of PM experts which demonstrate their proficiency will grow. There will also be more job ads demanding education in the field of project management.

4. Agile and flexible management

Agile methods are no longer just the domain of IT. They have penetrated into all project management fields and will continue to be used more often. The trend of companies' interest in fast and ongoing fulfillment of project objectives is very strong.

5. Teamwork

Teamwork is fundamental for agile project management. Teams should regularly evaluate their work and adjust their practices to be as efficient as possible. A "team", however, no longer means only the group of workers implementing a project, but also includes other internal and external stakeholders. Cooperation between all stakeholders and clients will become closer.

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