What are organizational influences?

Every organization has a certain way of doing things, collective wisdom about how things can best be done, etc. and these influences the planning and execution processes. These influences need to be taken into account when estimating, planning for activities related to projects. These are often mentioned as organizational environmental factors.

Organizational influences refer to the factors within a company or entity that can impact the management of projects. These influences can include:

  1. Organizational culture: The values, beliefs, and norms that guide behavior within the organization. Culture can affect how projects are planned, executed, and monitored.
  2. Organizational structure: The way in which the organization is set up, including hierarchies, reporting relationships, and departments. The structure can influence communication channels, decision-making processes, and resource allocation for projects.
  3. Organizational policies and procedures: The rules and guidelines that govern how work is done within the organization. These can include project management methodologies, procurement processes, and quality standards.
  4. Stakeholder expectations: The individuals or groups with an interest in the project and its outcomes. Stakeholder expectations can influence project goals, priorities, and success criteria.
  5. Resource availability: The availability of human, financial, and other resources needed to complete the project. Resource constraints can impact project schedules, budgets, and scope.
  6. Organizational maturity: The level of experience and capability in managing projects within the organization. More mature organizations may have established processes and systems for project management, while less mature organizations may face challenges in project execution.

In an interview, it’s important to demonstrate an understanding of how these organizational influences can impact project management practices and outcomes. You can discuss specific examples or experiences where you have navigated organizational influences to successfully manage projects. Additionally, highlighting strategies for effectively managing organizational influences, such as building strong relationships with stakeholders or advocating for necessary resources, can showcase your project management skills and expertise.