Project Management Skills For Managing Big Data Projects
Interested in managing a big data project? Or maybe you need to hire someone to manage an upcoming project?
The following is a list of just some of the essentials skills required to successfully manage a big data project.
- Cross-functional team management experience
While most project managers already have this core skill as most projects typically involve managing cross functional teams, project managers need to realize that the teams and skill sets required for big data projects will be expanded to include a diverse group of professionals, including engineering disciplines, scientists, business analysts, business “super” users, operations, etc.
- Ability to see the big picture
The primary goal of a big data project is to “make sense” of all the diverse and complex data. A big picture approach is necessary to achieve this objective.
- Data-driven thinking
To fully realize the untapped potential of their data, organizations must employ data-driven thinking vs. relying on past experiences or instincts. The big data project management approach is discovery-driven where decisions are made based on data and analysis vs. the intuition and vast experience of the project manager.
- Ability to deal with ambiguity
Big data projects require PMs to embrace the unknown. They may not currently have the answers, but must be committed to uncovering them through experimentation and evidence-based findings.
- Technical skills
According to Tech Republic, “The current state of big data also lends itself to a fair amount of experimentation, which is another reason why there is a need for a project manager with at least some technical skills.”
- Process development skills
Such skills will play an important role in adapting an organization's existing processes to big data.
- Soft skills
Soft skills such as collaboration, curiosity and creativity are indispensable traits for successful big data project delivery.
- Business acumen
Traditionally, IT project managers concentrated on planning and proactively identifying and mitigating the risks of deploying a defined technology solution. PMs will be required to shift focus to solving business problems.
About Patti Gilchrist
Patti Gilchrist is a Sr. Technical Manager with 25 years experience implementing strategic enterprise initiatives.
Patti has a reputation for effectively translating business problems into innovative solutions and creating strategic roadmaps to achieve business goals.