The One and Only “Best” Project Management Methodology

Among dozens of project management methodologies and frameworks out there, have you ever wondered whether there is one that outshines the others?

The answer to this question is surprisingly simple, frankly. Before coming to that point, allow me to beat around the bush for just a moment. Please bear with me.

Psychology tells us that human nature tends to make decisions easier if there is only a limited number of choices. As the possibilities increase, it puts one into greater hesitation.

The majority of people in project management environments love to work within certain boundaries too. Putting science behind this phenomenon aside, it ensures that nobody’s herd accidentally enters the king’s lawn. It ensures a common understanding among all parties involved. It is a formal handshake between stakeholders within the project environment. It ascertains that everybody speaks the same language (not in a literal sense of course)

Working within certain boundaries doesn’t necessarily mean going ‘by the book’ forever. There should ideally be phases. As the organization’s project management culture evolves and matures, the methodology should follow too. Just like a baby learns to run: crawl, cruise, walk, run.

Coming to the original question, the best methodology is therefore the one that suits and serves best for the organization, i.e. a tailor-made solution. Not a rigid box that organizations struggle to fit into.

However, it is easier said than done.

It is best achieved through experimentation, continuous learning, and fine-tuning.

It may first start with a rigid set of rules, industry standards, a certain methodology/framework. That’s totally fine. Then it better starts evolving.

Just as there’s no magic pill or secret formula for every illness, there is no perfect methodology either unless the organization shapes one for itself.