The use of artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming more widespread in many areas, including project management. With its capabilities to process data, predict outcomes, and automate tasks, it can be a valuable asset to project managers, increasing efficiency, reducing costs, and enabling faster and more accurate decisions.
Statistics show a steady growth in the use of AI in project management, with 75% of project management projects expected to use AI by 2024, according to a Gartner study. Additionally, 38% of companies have already implemented AI projects, and 62% plan to do so in the next two years, according to a Deloitte survey.
However, it should be emphasized that AI cannot entirely replace human project managers. It can assist them in making more informed decisions, but it can never replace their insight and know-how. In addition, the adoption of AI can be costly and requires additional training and expertise.
A- The benefits of using AI in project management
Using AI in project management offers several benefits:
Automation of repetitive tasks
AI can be used to automate repetitive tasks, freeing up time for project managers to focus on more important tasks. It can help improve efficiency by automating certain tasks and providing more accurate estimates.
Improved planning and time estimation
AI algorithms can help analyze historical data and predict the time needed to complete a specific task. This allows project managers to better plan and estimate timelines for the project. It can also help improve planning by using predictive algorithms to estimate raw material, labor, and equipment requirements.
Improved risk management
AI technology can be leveraged to detect threats and contingencies that could impact the project. Computer programs can be configured to spot deviations or atypical actions so that project managers can be informed and take prompt action.
Resource optimization
The use of AI allows for the optimization of resource management by analyzing data related to work hours, skills, and load levels. This analysis allows an efficient allocation of tasks according to the availability and skills of each team member while avoiding situations of overload or underutilization.
1- How can AI help improve project planning?
Analysis of historical data
AI can be used to analyze historical data from similar projects and learn from it for the current project. By identifying success and failure factors, algorithms can help determine the resources needed, the time frame to be expected, and the potential risks.
Identification of critical tasks
AI can also help identify the most critical tasks on the project—those that have the greatest impact on the final outcome. By determining the most sensitive task sequences, algorithms can help better plan activities and avoid delays.
Predictive modeling
Artificial intelligence can be used to build predictive models of project performance under various scenarios. Project managers can simulate different combinations of resources, timeframes, and budgets, allowing them to obtain accurate predictions of the expected results.
2- How AI can help improve project team performance
Training and development
The use of AI allows for personalized training to be offered to each team member, taking into account their skills and needs. Using algorithms, individual performance can be analyzed to provide tailored training modules to improve skills or fill gaps.
Performance monitoring
The use of AI allows for monitoring the performance of the project team, both at the individual and collective level. Thanks to the use of KPIs, the algorithms are able to measure the results obtained, identify the strong and weak points of the team, and propose areas for improvement.
Time management
Artificial intelligence can be used to help team members manage their time more efficiently. By providing them with task reminders, deadline alerts, or priority recommendations, algorithms can help optimize their productivity and prevent delays.
3- How AI can help with task management
Classification and sorting
AI can be used to classify and sort tasks based on their degree of complexity, urgency, or importance. Algorithms can thus help prioritize tasks in accordance with project requirements and prevent delays or oversights.
Task tracking
The use of AI allows for monitoring the progress of tasks and notifying project managers in case of delays or missed deadlines. By using project management tools, algorithms can visualize the status of tasks and react promptly when necessary.
Suggestions for improvement
AI technology can be used to suggest improvements based on results. By examining individual and team performance, algorithms can help identify areas of weakness and offer suggestions for improving productivity or work quality.
B- What is the position of the project manager in such a revolution
The role of the project manager is crucial in a revolution involving the use of AI in project management. While AI can take over some project management tasks, it is still the responsibility of the project manager to take ultimate responsibility for the project and ensure that it is completed successfully and meets stakeholder expectations.
The project manager’s role includes several responsibilities with respect to integrating AI into project management:
He must be able to identify areas where AI can be beneficial and work closely with AI specialists to integrate them.
Then, he must understand the results generated by AI systems so that they can be used effectively in decision making.
The project manager must also manage the project team using these tools and ensure that all team members are able to work with these technologies.
Finally, he must be able to explain the pros and cons of using AI in project management to stakeholders and address their questions and concerns.
In short, the role of the project manager remains central to project management, even with the arrival of AI. It is essential that they understand AI tools.
C- Examples of companies using AI in project management
Airbus uses Skywise to improve the management of its aircraft production. This AI allows you to follow in real time the production progress and detect anomalies or delays.
General Electric is using Predix AI to optimize the production management of its gas turbines. This technology monitors the condition of the turbines in real time and anticipates necessary maintenance operations.
IBM uses Watson to facilitate project management. It analyzes data to identify risks and opportunities and uses models to anticipate project outcomes.
Siemens uses MindSphere to plan and manage its projects. Algorithms are used to anticipate project outcomes and detect potential risks.
Microsoft uses Azur to improve the planning and management of project tasks. It is used to detect potential scheduling conflicts, facilitate task assignment and anticipate upcoming deadlines.
